Dhassig at Yaka
ETHNO-Christian band Dhassig is always busy year-round. Their latest gig was in the recent Kaamulan Festival in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon laat March 23,2018 where they performed with two other Cagayan de Oro-based ethnic and rap rock/metal groups at Yaka Bar.
Situated at Capitol Site deep in the heart of Malaybalay City where the yearly Kaamulan festivities were held, Yaka Bar is the place where lovers of alternative music jam the night away while diners leisurely listen and at the same time, devour the best burgers and sizzling delicacies in town.
In this particular gig, Dhassig is being joined by Grupong Laya (veterans in the local music industry) and Mouthy (composed of seasoned and newbie rockers from the City of Golden Friendship.)
Founded in 2012, Dhassig means “to inspire” in the Cebuano vernacular. The band’s advocacy is to promote positive influence among the listeners about cultural heritage and positive lifestyle. The members of the group are all-around percussionist Rhyan Casiño (that’s me), drummer Jeric Acasio, djembie percussionist David Yañez, percussionist Dennis Salagia, vocalist Junjun Cacho and bass guitarist Koko Caharian.
On the other hand, world music group Grupong Laya was formed in 2003. They are composed of vocalists Mienard Sandigan, Apol Lagumbay, Bon Mipz, guitarist King Anchangco, bass guitarist Kent John Quiambao, drummer Paul John Araña and percussionists Marc Nicholas, Aying Factura, Amao Mauricio, Markumar Yañez, Ranji Lumagsao and Bembem Salvador.
Mouthy is a relatively new group which tries to fuse hiphop into its heavy metal influence. Its members are Alson (vocals), Bon (drums), Chuck Bollozos (bass) and Rotsanjani (noise).
Kaamulan is the yearly gathering of the tribespeople of Bukidnon for a purpose. With the number of tourists increasing each year, the side gig at Yaka Bar was definitely the perfect spot for people to relax after the day’s festivity and get to appreciate Mindanaoan ethno music at its finest.
Dhassig alone has been performing not just in Northern Mindanao but all over the island. All our members’ passion for ethno music are authentic. My journey alone among the tribal communities in Mindanao have led me to realize the richness of the Mindanaon identity. Jeric, our drummer, has brought his native Cagayanon roots abroad, having toured in Europe, Middle East and Asia. David, our tambol expert, is presently venturing into traditional fire dancing. Dennis is a Manobo from Don Carlos, Bukidnon is an expert craftsman. Koko’s brand of ethno bass is being fused with jazz and bossa nova, creating a unique blend of international flavor of sounds, so to speak. Junjun, a Manobo from Quezon, Bukidnon, is also a pastor in his church flock in Cagayan de Oro City.
Generally, Kaamulan as an ethnic festival celebrates the customs and traditions of the seven tribal groups of Bukidnon: Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon and Umayamnon. Aside from being a music-filled fest, costumes studded with native ornaments are also showcased during the occasion. Together the participants chant, dance and compete in indigenous sports.
The annual Kaamulan festival also has throws in its own modernity such as a rodeo competition, motocross, agri-fair, livestock show and even amateur boxing.