Siblings Vote in Traditional Garb to Show Igorot Pride
BAGUIO CITY — On election day, siblings Mia Nicole and Igor Nikolai Cawed stood out at the polling center as they cast their votes wearing traditional Igorot clothing. This practice has been a family tradition for decades, and they continue it proudly to honor their roots.
They explained that the tradition began with their father, Bong Cawed, a respected tribal leader from Bontoc, Mountain Province. “Actually, it started with our dad, and we just want to show the people who the Igorots really are. Even if you’re part of the indigenous people, your vote still counts,” Igor shared.
He added, “It’s one of the legacies of our father. Of course we’ve come to like it also. We want to show the people who the Igorot are.” With determination, the siblings said they plan to keep this tradition alive for many years ahead.
Election 2025: Voting Hours and Voter Data
The Cawed siblings are among the 166,416 registered voters in Baguio City, according to the Commission on Elections data as of March 12, 2025. For this year’s election, polling centers opened early at 5 a.m. specifically for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and pregnant women.
Regular voting hours began at 7 a.m. and will continue until 7 p.m., giving voters ample time to make their voices heard. The tradition of voting in traditional garb serves as a powerful reminder that indigenous culture remains vibrant and valued, even in modern civic duties.