NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Philippines – As the world evolves in the digital era or so-called gadgets boom, many things from the past are gradually fading from sight and memory, becoming only articles or photos in history books. But Sagay City in Negros Occidental, known for championing environmental protection and cultural heritage preservation, still holds on to something it will never surrender despite the smartphone and social media era. It’s “Kadang-Kadang,” an indigenous relay game using bamboo stilts called “kadang.” For millennials and Generation Z, it is not appealing.

Many do not care or are no longer interested in playing it. Worse, “Kadang-Kadang” is seen by some as a waste of young people’s attention. But Sagay refuses to give in to this harsh reality of indigenous games slowly vanishing, once favorites among their elders.

In Barangay Puey, Sagay, home to the city’s indigenous peoples (IPs), “Kadang-Kadang” is more than a treasure; it is a core part of their identity. Thus, on March 16 during Sagay’s 30th Sinigayan Festival opening, “Kadang-Kadang” once again took the spotlight. With Sagay’s Atas as the main participants, “Kadang-Kadang” once again reawakened the curiosity of the public.

It drew a large crowd that closely observed how the indigenous game is played, which is already part of the country’s “Laro ng Lahi” programs. However, “Kadang-Kadang” actually originated in Cebu in 1969. Since then, Sagay’s Atas have seriously adopted the game, continuing efforts to preserve “Kadang-Kadang” at all costs.

Linking past to present Helen Cutillar, Sagay’s information and tourism officer, said “Kadang-Kadang” is a nostalgic game for Saganaynons, especially members of the Ata tribe in Barangay Puey. Preserving the game is like maintaining a strong bridge linking past and present generations of Sagaynons, she explained. Beyond cultural preservation, “Kadang-Kadang” also serves as a strong identity marker for the city’s IPs and their community.

It has made them figuratively “taller” for more than five decades as they continue to play, preserve, and promote the tradition. The balance required to win the race using bamboo stilts reflects stability among the Atas of Sagay as they live in a community increasingly influenced by modernity. The coordination and concentration required in “Kadang-Kadang” also help the Atas stay grounded in their identity and sense of place.

The use of bamboo stilts also reflects the Atas’ adaptability and how they have sustained their indigenous lifestyle through the years despite technological change. The local government of Sagay remains committed to supporting the Atas, including their cultural heritage, ancestral domain, and traditional game “Kadang-Kadang.” Helping the Atas adapt while preserving their indigenous beliefs, traditions, and games is not just support but a necessary and logical approach. Promoting “Kadang-Kadang” to foster social connection and community spirit is a form of purpose-driven public service that Sagaynons, including the Atas, can cherish and take pride in. “Kadang-Kadang,” therefore, for Sagaynons, is not just an indigenous game or race but a tradition whose nature, essence, and meaning have long been part of their distinct identity.