Yebong Lyn Amfan Buti demonstrating the steps of the T’boli dance, Madal Semigon, during the workshop (San Francisco PCG photos)
San Francisco, California – In celebration of Filipino American History Month and National Indigenous Peoples Month, the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco partnered with Parangal Dance Company to host the T’boli Kehetotol Dance Workshop by Yebong Lyn Amfan Buti on 16 October 2026 at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center.
The workshop featured T’boli cultural master Lyn Amfan Buti, who shared the beauty and significance of traditional T’boli dance. Together with Parangal, Ms. Lyn Buti performed T’boli dances, followed by an interactive workshop that offered participants an opportunity to experience these cultural traditions firsthand. Representatives from consular missions in San Francisco, Filipino American cultural organizations, and members of the community gathered to celebrate the Philippines’ rich Indigenous heritage.
In his welcome remarks, Consul General Arnel G. Talisayon underscored the importance of recognizing every voice, honoring diverse histories, and ensuring that the cultural traditions of the Indigenous Peoples of the Philippines remain visible, valued, and alive for generations to come. He expressed his appreciation to Ms. Buti, Philippine Master Artist in Residence and T’boli cultural master, for sharing her extensive knowledge and expertise, demonstrating the beauty and significance of T’boli dance, and providing participants with an opportunity to engage with and experience T’boli cultural traditions. Consul General Talisayon also conveyed his appreciation to Parangal and its members for their continued partnership and commitment to preserving and promoting Philippine traditional arts in the United States. This collaboration was among the highlights of the Consulate’s cultural programming for the year, as the Philippines and the United States commemorate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations.END
Ms. Lyn Buti demonstrates dance movements using a malong (San Francisco PCG photo)
Parangal Dance Company performing a T’boli traditional dance during the workshop (San Francisco PCG photo)
Ms. Lyn Buti describes traditional T’boli garments and cultural accessories, encouraging participants to try on the attire and experience this aspect of T’boli cultural heritage (San Francisco PCG photos)
Consul General Arnel G. Talisayon presents a Certificate of Recognition to Yebong Lyn Amfan Buti for her efforts to advance T’boli culture (San Francisco PCG photo)
Participants of the dance workshop have their photo taken post-event (San Francisco PCG photo)