General Santos City, Philippines — September 18, 2025
The upland community of Barangay Datal Batong in Malungon, Sarangani Province recently marked its 41st founding anniversary with a celebration that placed its unique culinary heritage at the heart of the festivities.
This year’s highlight was the Pinadapla Festival, a cultural event that showcases the Blaan tribe’s traditional method of roasting meat. A total of 56 pigs, 101 chickens, and one cow were prepared “pinadapla-style” and shared among residents and guests as part of the community gathering.
What is “Pinadapla”?
“Pinadapla” is a distinctive way of cooking whole animals — from pigs and chickens to goats and cows — by flattening them and roasting them over burning embers. Seasoned with local spices, the meat is spread open and cooked evenly, resulting in a crisp and flavorful dish that differs from the more familiar Filipino lechon.
This technique is widely practiced among Blaan communities around Mt. Matutum, including those in South Cotabato and Koronadal City. More than just food, pinadapla represents a culinary tradition passed down through generations.
Celebration with a Purpose
Carrying the theme “Nagkakaisang Batongians, Kulturang Pinagyaman: Larawan ng Isang Progresibong Pamayanan” (United Batongians, Enriched Culture: A Portrait of a Progressive Community), the festival was organized in partnership with the Municipal Government of Malungon under Mayor Reynaldo “Bong” Constantino and the Municipal Tourism Office.
Mayor Constantino, in his message, emphasized the importance of solidarity and peace in achieving progress, reminding residents to avoid the mistakes of the past marked by division and conflict. He also pledged to construct a permanent venue for the Pinadapla Festival, replacing temporary stalls that the community had been using in past celebrations.
Barangay Captain Ronel N. Zorilla expressed gratitude for the government’s continuous support, noting that despite Datal Batong being the farthest barangay, residents already feel improvements. These include fully concreted roads and the establishment of the Camen Wata Bagi National High School, known locally as the “school beyond the clouds.”
Guests and Community Spirit
The event drew participation from local leaders and officials, including Vice Mayor Tessa Constantino, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, and representatives from the provincial government, congressional office, DILG, PNP, and neighboring barangays.
More than just a feast, the Pinadapla Festival served as a symbol of cultural pride and resilience for the people of Datal Batong. Through the tradition of pinadapla, the community continues to celebrate its Blaan heritage, strengthen its unity, and affirm its identity as a progressive and resilient upland village.