Bacyadan honors roots, practices Igorot traditions ahead of Paris Olympics
Source: The Manila times
MANILA, Philippines -- BEING a warrior runs in Hergie Tao-Wag Bacyadan's blood.
Aside from the hardball training and strength conditioning, the Olympic-bound Filipina boxer will have a "warrior blessing" from her Kalinga Tribe and will practice Igorot traditions and rituals before competing in the 2024 Paris Games.
"Our fighting spirit and power are already ingrained in us. I am excited to show how I fight in the upcoming Paris Olympics. It is our bloodline to fight, I will show them that I deserve this Olympic slot," Bacyadan told The Manila Times.
"I always mentioned that I am proud of my tribe in Kalinga and since before we were called as the head hunters. Unexpectedly, I am fighting for my tribe this Paris Games, and I want to show to the world I am from Kalinga."
In the earliest of times, Igorot are known to be fighters and conquerors after defying Spanish expeditions in the 1600s.
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With Bacyadan competing in the prestigious sporting event, she will also be graced by the elderly, and will have a farewell ceremony for strength and guidance from her tribe.
"Yes, in Kalinga it is our tradition. Today, I am their warrior and champion that will represent our tribe. Before I compete in the Olympics I will practice our oration, ceremonies, and the blessings of our elderlies that will give me the guide for my fight in Paris."
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But due to her tight schedule, Bacyadan will practice their traditions online as they have training in Metz, France on June 22, and will train in Germany on the first week of July.
"Our schedule is really tight, we will do our rituals online. Like slaying a chicken as a sign of offering for my upcoming battle, the whispers of our elderly, and of course prayer at the same time."
Despite growing up in Manila, Bacyadan still honors her roots and shared that every time she has a competition she practices the same rituals for added blessing and grace.
Like an Igorot warrior, Bacyadan looks to have her first Igorot tattoo after the Olympics as it is a sign of an accomplished task and his strength as a warrior.
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"Right now, I do not have any tattoos yet from my tribe. I am planning to have it after the Olympics since that's how it should be. I am proud of Kalinga and will have my tattoo after my battle and competition."