Kimlawis, Davao del Sur — Vibrant colors, cultural performances, and a strong spirit of unity marked the celebration of the 2nd Kasalbog Festival as residents of Barangay Kimlawis, Kiblawan, Davao del Sur came together in partnership with Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI) to commemorate the 54th Araw ng Barangay Kimlawis.
The festive gathering reflected the community’s pride in its heritage while also creating a meaningful space to promote shared responsibility in protecting the youth.
The activity was held on January 14, 2026, at the Barangay Gymnasium of Kimlawis and was attended by members of the community, the Barangay Local Government (BLGU) of Kimlawis, and representatives of Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI). Beyond the celebration, the event served as an important platform to raise awareness on the growing concern of child marriage in the Province of Davao del Sur.
In his message, Provincial Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Fulong Saman expressed his appreciation for SMI’s continued support to the community and emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in protecting the youth and enforcing Republic Act 11596, which strengthens the prohibition of child marriage in the country.
“Nagpapasalamat po kami sa patuloy na suporta ng Sagittarius Mines, Inc. sa aming barangay. Malaking tulong ang mga ganitong aktibidad upang mapalakas ang kamalayan ng komunidad laban sa isyu ng child marriage,” said IPMR Saman.
He further stressed that preventing child marriage requires the involvement of the entire community. “Ang paglaban sa child marriage ay responsibilidad ng lahat, ang mga magulang, lider, at mismong komunidad. Kailangan nating gabayan ang ating mga kabataan sa tamang impormasyon at tamang desisyon sa buhay,” he added.
SMI Community Relations Supervisor Nelsie Distura reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainable progress and development, particularly in the areas of health and education, as key strategies in supporting youth.
“Ang Sagittarius Mines, Inc. ay nananatiling kaagapay ng mga komunidad sa pagsusulong ng sustainable na kaunlaran, lalo na sa kalusugan at edukasyon,” Distura said.
She highlighted that providing opportunities for the youth helps equip them with knowledge and direction for a better future and further emphasized that SMI continues to work closely with barangay leaders and local stakeholders to implement programs that support youth development and long-term community well-being.
The 2nd Kalsabog Festival was not only a celebration of the 54 years of unity and growth of Barangay Kimlawis, but also a meaningful reminder that safeguarding the youth is a shared responsibility. Through strong collaboration among the barangay, local government, and private sector partners, Sagittarius Mines, Inc. continues to lead efforts to prevent child marriage and promote a healthier, more informed generation. (30)
