I am Tagukami

A story of a provincial boy now living in Manila

- By ADRIAN JOSH BAAC Third-year Political Science major San Beda University

I am Tagukami. What does Tagukami stand for? The term was once used by the Kalinga people to refer to themselves, meaning “we are men.” It reflects a deep sense of identity and a strong connection to our ancestral land. I call myself Tagukami, a proud youth from Kalinga who now lives in the metro.

At a young age, I witnessed the realities of politics, culture, and tradition, along with the values of leadership, responsibility, and resilience. These principles, deeply rooted in my tribal upbringing with my mother and grandparents, continue to guide how I live and make decisions today.