Tanudan, Kalinga, a quiet yet proud municipality, was filled with anticipation and excitement as one of its own, Hergie Bacyadan, took the global stage at the Paris 2024 Olympics. An Igorot from Tanudan, Bacyadan's participation in the Olympics was more than just an athletic achievement; it was a symbol of her tribe's cultural pride and unity.
A Boxer Carrying the Spirit of Tanudan
Hergie Bacyadan, a 29-year-old Filipino female boxer and Olympic athlete, has always embraced her roots, carrying the identity of the Tanudan tribe with her into every match. In addition to her athletic prowess, Bacyadan is a vocal member of the LGBTQIA+ community and a Vovinam world champion, proudly representing both her tribe and her identity on the global stage.
Her presence at the Paris 2024 Olympics was no different, as she stood in the ring with the weight of her community's hopes and pride on her shoulders. However, on July 31, her Olympic journey came to an end after a challenging round of 16 match against China's top-seeded Li Qian in the women's 75 kg division, where Bacyadan was defeated by unanimous decision.
Community Support for Their Hometown Hero
In the days leading up to Bacyadan's Olympic fight, the iTanudan community rallied behind her in a display of overwhelming support. Tarpaulins wishing her good luck were set up in strategic locations throughout the municipality.
The sense of communal pride was palpable as local leaders, including Mayor Jaedicke Rhoss Dagadag, and residents gathered in Banagao, Poblacion, to watch and cheer for their hometown hero.
Mayor Dagadag, speaking on behalf of the community, expressed the deep pride and gratitude the people of Tanudan felt toward Bacyadan's efforts.
"Agpasalamat kami kanyana ta aw-awiten na iti tribe na nga Tanudan kadagitoy salsalian na. Maragsakan kami uray kasdiay nga haan nga napagasatan, naragsakan kami nga nangbuya kanyana," Dagadag conveyed.
This heartfelt message highlighted the community's unwavering support and their joy in seeing Bacyadan represent their tribe on such a grand stage.
Looking Ahead with Pride and Hope
Despite the outcome, Bacyadan's participation in the Olympics has left a lasting impact on her community. The people of Tanudan are not only proud of her achievements but also optimistic about her future endeavors.
They stand by her, ready to support her in every competition she joins next. Bacyadan's journey has become a source of inspiration, showcasing the strength and resilience of the Tanudan tribe.
A Legacy of Pride
Hergie Bacyadan's Olympic journey may have ended earlier than hoped, but her legacy in Tanudan is far from over. She has shown the world what it means to fight with the spirit of an entire community behind her, and for that, Tanudan will forever be proud.
As the community continues to support her, they look forward to witnessing more of her achievements and the honor she brings to their tribe.
In Tanudan, the pride of a tribe is not measured by wins or losses but by the courage and heart with which one represents their people. Hergie Bacyadan has done just that, and her community stands by her, today and always.
