ROMEO OGONG SET TO RETURN TO BAGUIO

In an exclusive interview, Southern cowboy performer Romeo Ogong confirmed that he is set to return to Baguio City to perform and accept future engagements following the conclusion of the tabtabal and sabusab yesterday, March 2. In an earlier Facebook post, Ogong said he would no longer perform in Baguio after expressing that he was personally hurt by the controversy. However, after the dialogue process, the support he received from the Cordillera community, and the withdrawal of the proposed persona non grata resolution, Ogong said plans are now being made for his return. He added that he has begun receiving performance proposals from various groups. The proposed persona non grata resolution was withdrawn during the regular council session at Baguio City Council held at City Hall yesterday, March 2. Earlier that day, a sabusab ritual was conducted at Ibaloy Park, under the “Ogong Tree,” marking the formal conclusion of the customary reconciliation process. During the sabusab, Ogong acknowledged the harm caused by his remarks and issued an apology. The Onjon ni Ivadoy Association Inc., and the Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Maximo Hilario Edwin Jr. likewise admitted lapses in failing to properly brief the performing artists and extended their apologies to Ogong and the public. In an interview, IPMR Edwin clarified that the sabusab was not directed personally at Ogong, citing his lack of familiarity with Cordillera culture and traditions, but rather toward his producers, who are Cordillerans and were expected to have properly briefed him on local culture and traditions. He added that the incident served as a learning experience for all parties involved. Both parties voluntarily offered pigs for butchering as part of the ritual, with IPMR Edwin emphasizing that the offering from Ogong’s Team was not forced and was intended as a gesture of sincerity by both parties. Further, the Onjon ni Ivadoy Association clarified that Ogong did not personally incur any expenses, including attorney’s fees, during the tabtabal and sabusab, addressing public claims suggesting otherwise. Watch the full interview here: 🎥 Annjay Domilies/BHE #sabusab #RomeoOgong #tabtabal #baguiocity #heraldexpress