ITOGON, Benguet (PIA) – Young learners from the Itogon Central School in Itogon, Benguet have found a healthy and rewarding way of spending their free time. 

They keep themselves busy with music rather than spending their idle time with their phones or gadgets. 

The Atuled Band is composed of Grades 5 and 6 learners, with a beginner category for Grade 4 pupils. 

“Atuled,” an Ibaloy term meaning brave, reflects the band’s mission to break the stereotype of the Ibaloy tribe, which  is often described as shy, according to teacher Theresita Donato, who is the coach of the group.

These young musicians are using their talent and passion for music to express themselves and share their culture.

Led by their coach, the Atuled band members spend their free time honing their talents and potential. They practice during recess, lunch breaks, and even after school, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to their music. Many of their musical pieces are in local dialects. 

“Laking pasasalamat ko at binibigyang halaga ng mga bata ‘yung oras nila, ginugugol nila ito sa paglalaro ng instrument gaya nga ng ukulele, gitara, at beatbox,” she added.

[I am thankful that these learners are giving importance to spending their time playing instruments like the ukulele, guitar, and beatbox.] 

"Nalilinang pa ang kanilang talent, hindi lang sa musika kundi pati sa reading and memory skill. 'Yung kanilang pagmamahal sa kultura, nade-develop din at ang confidence nila ay naa-uplift," Donato shared.

[Their talents are being honed not only  in music but also in reading and memory skills. Even love for their  culture is developed, and their confidence is uplifted.] 

Their hard work and dedication are paying off. The band has already performed at  various events within and outside the school, such as charity concerts and community affairs. They have captivated audiences with their musicality and stage presence. 

For the band members, music also fosters a sense of connection and a stronger bond between learners and their teachers.

"Mas napapalapit pa po kami sa isa't isa lalo na po kapag kami ay magkakasama tuwing hapon kapag kami ay nage-ensayo. Mabuti rin ito sa amin dahil imbes na kami ay mag-cellphone, ito na lang po ang inaatupag namin," learner Limarzone Comiles shared.

[We have become closer to each other, especially as we are together every afternoon  for practice. This is good for us because, instead of being glued to our cellphones, this is what we are busy with.]  

Itogon Central School principal Emelda Amancio acknowledged teacher Donato for encouraging and leading learners to spend their free time creating music. This endeavor, she said, is in line with the school’s Project TAkik, which aims to support the talents of learners.

These young musicians are inspiring their peers and community to embrace their individuality and pursue their passions. (JDP/DEG-PIA CAR with Venus Mei Caguioa -BSU Intern) (Photos by BSU interns)