Christianization by the Spanish Catholic missionaries, they

Apayao Ethnic Group were dubbed as "Bagong Kristyano" by those who

The Apayao Ethnic Group, also known as the Isnag people, preceded them and the name calling stuck and are called
are an indigenous group primarily residing in the Bagos to the present day. a Bago settlement in Quirino
mountainous province of Apayao in the Philippines' reveals that these settlements have been formed out of the
Cordillera Administrative Region. They are also found in inter-village wars before the establishment of the
parts of neighboring provinces like Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Cordillera Peoples Movement between Lubo, Payeo and
and Abra. Besao against Guisadan, Bauko and Kayan. One reason
given by the elders for this is the desire to control and
Cultural Identity and Traditions occupy Angaki (Quirino) and Cervantes, as evidenced by
Apayao culture is deeply rooted in their ancestral lands and the mon-mon (hiding places) in the mountain of Quirino in
traditions. They are known for their intricate weaving, Malitep, Matuking, Ba’angan, Bauko.
particularly their colorful inabel cloth, which is used for
clothing and household items. Their traditional attire, Socio-Cultural Practices
characterized by vibrant colors and intricate designs, The Upland people are industrious, cooperative, friendly,
reflects their rich cultural heritage. Music and dance are hospitable and peace loving. Residents can sleep with open
integral parts of Apayao culture. They have a variety of windows and doors at night and safely leave his products at
traditional dances, such as the Sagayan, a war dance, and the farm for weeks. The Children prefer to sleep with peers in
the Sayaw sa Banga, a dance involving clay pots. Their places called abong or in a pataguab. One famous culture
music is often accompanied by indigenous instruments like according to what recorded in Banayoyo is the Begnas that
the gansa (gong), suling (flute), and ganza (drum). usually performed from five to seven days:

Celebration
Social Structure and Beliefs
Begnas is a celebration of thanksgiving after the productive
Apayao society is traditionally organized into clans, with and fruitful harvest season to Kabunian. It is also meant to
strong family ties and communal living arrangements. drive away bad spirits who might have caused misfortunes,
They practice a unique system of land tenure called "lapat," such as droughts, and anxieties among the people in the
where certain areas of forest are designated as sacred and community. Leading the Begnas is the mannapo or native
protected. This system has played a significant role in priest who offers prayers and live chickens as sacrifice.
preserving their environment and biodiversity. Animism, Meanwhile, the community engages itself in dances and
the belief in spirits inhabiting natural objects and songs. In the final stage of ritual called Obaya, a Pig is also
phenomena, is a central aspect of Apayao spirituality. They butchered and the meat is apportioned among the various
believe in a supreme being called "Kabunyan" and various households. The mannapo then ends the Begnas with
spirits associated with nature, ancestors, and specific prayers.
places. Rituals and ceremonies are performed to appease
these spirits and seek their blessings.
Kankanaey Of Benguet
Challenges and Conservation Efforts The Kankanaey live in western Mountain Province,
Like many indigenous groups, the Apayao people face northern Benguet and southeastern Ilocos Sur, and are part
challenges such as land encroachment, environmental of the Filipino indigenous group known as the Igorot
degradation, and cultural erosion. However, they have people. They are one of the larger tribes the region, and,
actively engaged in efforts to preserve their culture and like most Igorot ethnic groups, built sloping terraces to
protect their ancestral lands. Community-based maximize farm space in the rugged terrain of the
organizations and indigenous peoples' organizations have Cordillera. Therefore, most of their income comes from
emerged to advocate for their rights and promote tilling the fields, but they are also into mining since the
sustainable development. They have also worked with territory yields lots of minerals, particularly gold. Hunting
government agencies and non-governmental organizations is also practiced by the people with the use of spears and
to implement conservation programs and cultural dogs, while fishing is done with the use of bamboo traps.
revitalization initiatives. The Apayao people's rich cultural The women are said to be the best weavers in Benguet
heritage, deep connection to their land, and resilience in the province.
face of challenges make them a significant part of the
Philippines' diverse cultural landscape. Culture and Traditions
Kankanaey culture is deeply rooted in agricultural
Bago Ethnic Group practices, with a strong emphasis on rice farming and the
use of terraces to cultivate rice in the mountainous regions.
Bago is part of the 1st Malay migrating groups to the Rice is not just a staple food; it also holds significant
Philippines, believed to be about 200-300 years B.C. who cultural and spiritual value.
entered and settled at the upper delta of the Amburayan
River (Ilocos Province) with some going further north at Cultural aspects:
the upper delta of the Abra River and from here, Bago tribe
Rice Terraces and Farming: The Kankanaey are known
migrated to all parts of the country and even abroad. The
for their rice terraces, which are both an agricultural
upper deltas of the Abra River and the Amburayan river
innovation and a cultural symbol. These terraces are often a
were already inhabited by the Bago Tribe before the arrival
communal effort, with families working together to tend to
of the Spaniards in the Northern Philippines.
the fields.
History Dances and Music: Traditional dances and music are
The Spaniards created the upper delta of Abra River, as integral to Kankanaey culture. These performances are
Commandancia Politica-Militar de Tiagan in 1847 and the often held during rituals, festivals, and ceremonies.
upper delta of Amburayan River as Commandancia Traditional instruments include gongs (called "gangsa"),
Politico-Militar de Amburayanon April 10, 1890. These which are used in various ceremonies.
Commandancias are located at the borders of the Cordillera Rituals and Ceremonies: Rituals play an important role in
(Gran Cordillera) and the Ilocos Region now the 14 upland Kankanaey culture, with ceremonies conducted for
municipalities of Ilocos Sur and the municipalities of planting, harvesting, and significant life events like birth,
Sudipen, Santol, San Gabriel and Pugo, all of La Union. death, and marriage. These rituals often involve offerings
According to its history, during the process of
to spirits, such as Anitos (ancestral spirits), and the use of The Kalanguya are primarily subsistence farmers, growing
sacred objects, chants, and dances. rice, corn, vegetables, and root crops on terraced fields.
The Ifugao rice terraces, for example, are well-known,
Traditional Beliefs and Spirituality though the Kalanguya also have their own versions of rice
The Kankanaey people practice animism, believing that the terraces. They practice a form of shifting cultivation, using
natural and spiritual worlds are interconnected. Central to traditional farming techniques that are closely tied to their
their beliefs are Anitos, spirits of ancestors and nature that relationship with the land and nature.
influence daily life and must be honored through offerings,
especially during agricultural ceremonies. The Babaylan, Traditional Beliefs and Religion
often a woman, serves as a spiritual leader and The Kalanguya traditionally have an animistic belief
intermediary, performing rituals to ensure the community’s system. They believe that spirits inhabit both natural and
well-being. Animal sacrifices, typically of chickens or man-made objects and places. Their religious practices
pigs, are made during ceremonies like the kanyaw to include offerings and rituals to appease these spirits,
appease spirits. The Kankanaey also believe in an afterlife, seeking blessings for health, success in farming, and
where the souls of the dead continue to interact with the protection from calamities.
living. Ancestral Spirits: The Kalanguya have a strong reverence
for their ancestors. Ancestor worship is an important part
Arts and Crafts of their spiritual life, and rituals are performed to honor the
The Kankanaey are known for their distinctive spirits of their forebears.
craftsmanship, which is integral to daily life, rituals, and Babaylan (Shaman): The babaylan, or a local shaman,
decoration. They are skilled weavers, creating ikat-style plays an important role in the community. This spiritual
fabrics called "inabel" or "abell," used for clothing like the leader performs rituals, mediates with the spirits, and
"lufid" (wraparound skirt) and "wanes" (headdress). The provides healing using traditional methods.
patterns hold symbolic meaning, reflecting their connection Rituals and Festivals: They have various rituals and
to ancestors and nature. Kankanaey woodcraft is also ceremonies to celebrate milestones, agricultural harvests,
highly regarded, with artisans carving religious icons, and rites of passage (such as birth, marriage, and death).
tools, and ceremonial items. Traditional pottery is used for One of the most significant ceremonies is the Pagtatanong
cooking and storage, while the gangsa (gong) plays a or thanksgiving feast, which is held to thank the spirits for
central role in music. These gongs are featured in both a bountiful harvest.
secular and sacred contexts, often played in ensembles
during communal celebrations and rituals. Art and Crafts
The Kalanguya, like other Cordilleran peoples, are skilled
Festivals and Celebrations in a variety of crafts, often made from natural materials.
Panag-apoy Festival: One of the significant Kankanaey Weaving: The Kalanguya people are known for their
festivals is the Panag-apoy, a ritual performed to give intricate weaving, producing textiles for clothing and
thanks for the bountiful harvest and ask for blessings for ceremonial use. Their weaving techniques are passed down
the coming season. The festival involves prayers, dances, through generations, often taught by women to their
and offerings to the spirits. daughters.
Benguet Foundation Day: This event celebrates the cultural Woodcarving: Woodcarving is another important craft.
heritage and achievements of the people of Benguet, The Kalanguya make tools, household items, and
including the Kankanaey. It is a time for showcasing their ceremonial objects, such as wooden statues or masks used
traditional dances, music, and crafts. in religious rituals.
Baskets and Mats: They also make baskets, mats, and
The Kankanaey people of Benguet have a rich and diverse other woven items from rattan, bamboo, and other local
culture shaped by their environment, history, and spiritual materials, which are used for everyday purposes, storage,
beliefs. Their traditional practices, including farming, and transport.
weaving, and performing rituals, are all deeply intertwined
with the natural world and the communal life they uphold. Music and Dance
Despite the challenges posed by modernization, the Music and dance are integral to Kalanguya cultural
Kankanaey continue to maintain their cultural heritage expression, especially during rituals, festivals, and
while adapting to the changes brought by the modern important community events. Traditional instruments
world. include the gongs, drums, and other percussion
instruments. Dances are performed to honor the spirits,
celebrate harvests, and tell stories of their ancestors and
Kalanguya Ethnic Group history.

The Kalanguya ethno-linguistic group, also known as Architecture

Ikalahan or people from the forest, maintains a unique The traditional Kalanguya house, like those of many other
cultural identity through language, customs and traditions, mountain peoples, is made from local materials such as
although they have been separated into several provinces bamboo, wood, and nipa palm. The houses are often
through political boundaries. The Kalanguyas occupy elevated on stilts, which provides protection from floods
easthern Benguet as well as the western portions of the and animals. The architectural style is practical and
adjacent provinces of Ifugao and Nueva Viscaya. The adapted to the mountainous environment, and the design
Ibaloys, Kankana-eys and the Kalanguya are culturally reflects the community's value of family and communal
similar. The three tribes share a common belief sustem living.
dominating their lifeways and observe common rituals.

Culture and Traditions:

Northern Kankanaey
The Northern Kankana-ey ethnolinguistic group consists of
Agricultural Practices the inhabitants of the municipalities of Sagada and Besao,
including those who migrated to other places. Found in the Many Ibalois are now Christians of various denominations,
western portion of Mountain Province, these municipalities though many of them still practice traditional Ibaloi faith.
are bounded on the east by the municipality of Bontoc; on
the west by the municipalities of Cervantes and Quirino, The Ibaloi believe in two kinds of spirits (anitos). The
Ilocos Sur; on the north by the province of Abra; and on nature spirits are associated with calamities, while the
the south by the municipalities of Tadian and Bauko. They ancestral ones (ka-apuan) make their presence known in
are accessible from Baguio through the Halsema Highway dreams or by making a family member sick.
or Mountain Trail and from Bontoc through the Bontoc-
Sagada road.

The Northern Kankanaey believe in ancestor spirits

(anitos) and nature spirits. Ancestor spirits are generally Esnag Ethnic Group
benevolent, residing in villages, rocks, and caves, and are The Isnag people (also referred to as IYapayao and
invoked for good fortune. Nature spirits, often malevolent, Apayao) are an Austronesian ethnic group native to
dwell in mountains, trees, and rivers, and can cause harm if Apayao province in the Philippines' Cordillera
disturbed. Both types of spirits are believed to have human Administrative Region, though they are also found in parts
needs, requiring food and offerings to appease them. of Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, and Abra.Their native language
Failure to appease them can result in sickness or is Isnag, although most Isnag also speak Ilocano. Isnag is
misfortune. derived from a combination of 'IS,' meaning 'recede,' and
'UNAG,' meaning 'interior.'
The Northern Kankanaey believe in various spirits,
including:
Thus, it translates to 'people who live inland.' The Isnags
- Pinten: Spirits of those who died violently, often are described as having a slender and graceful stature,
invoked for success in headhunting or revenge. being kind, hospitable, and generous, with a strong sense of
self-reliance and courage. Various names have been used
- Ab-abi-ik: Souls of living things, including plants, to differentiate the Isnag. The Spaniards referred to them as
animals, and humans. These souls become anitos (ancestor los Apayaos (referring to the river along which they live)
spirits) after death. and los Mandayas (taken from the Isnag term meaning
“upstream”). In 1923, they were the last ethnic group to be
- Kabunian: A supreme deity, considered the creator. conquered by the American colonialists. Before, they had
no collective name. Instead, they referred to themselves
- Lumawig: Kabunian’s son, who taught people how to based on their residence or whether they lived: upstream
live peacefully and prosperously. (Imandaya) or downstream (Imallod).
The Kankanaey appease spirits through feasts and
The Isnags are called river people because they historically
sacrifices of food and wine, except for Lumawig who does
used riverways to navigate and settle in the mountains. The
not receive sacrifices. They believe that spirits can
Imandaya prefer the upper streams "daya" of the Apayao
influence events like illness, harvest, and omens.
River, Diksonan River, and Kadlay River, while the
Experienced elders, not ordained priests, lead ceremonies
Imalawa favor the riverways of Vintar-surung, from
and interpret animal sacrifices.
Malawa (a sitio of Barangay DRAS, Calanasan) to Katoan
(now Barangay Tanglagan, Calanasan). The Imallod live
along the lower stream "allod" of the Apayao River. The
Ingahan inhabit areas along the Nagan River while the
Ibaloi Ethnic Group Itawit domain is along the Tawit River, between Upper
Atu' and Upper Pudtol in Apayao. The Isnags of Conner
The Ibaloi inhabit the southeastern part of Benguet reside along a major tributary of the Matalag River. The
Province. The area is rich in mineral resources like copper, Ehapayao/Iyapayao (Yapayao) prefer the Bulu River,
gold, pyrite, and limestone. Plants and animals are also known as 'payaw,' in the eastern part of Ilocos Norte and
abundant in the forests and mountain areas, and there is an the northwestern part of Cagayan.
extensive water system that includes the Bued River, Agno The traditional attire of the Isnag tribe reflects their rich
River, and Amburayan River. Mount Pulag, the third cultural heritage and distinct aesthetic sensibilities.
highest mountain of the Philippines, is found in their
territory and is a culturally important area as well, Men's Attire: Isnag men traditionally wear a G-string
considered the place where spirits join their ancestors. called "abag," which is typically blue in color. For special
occasions, they don an upper garment known as "bado."
The Ibaloi are distributed in the mountain valleys and They also wear an ornament called "sipattal," made of
settlements. Ancestral land claims by Ibaloi communities shells and beads, specifically during significant events.
include parts of Baguio. Historically, warriors or "mengal" would wear a red
kerchief on their heads and have tattoos on their arms and
The Northern Kankanaey, also known as Ibaloi, have a shoulders to signify their bravery and accomplishments in
rich history of mining for gold and copper. They use head-taking forays.
traditional methods like lode or placer mining, followed by
crushing ore with stones and separating the gold using a
water trough. Women's Attire: Isnag women are known for their colorful
garments. They wear a wraparound cloth called "aken,"
The Ibaloi are primarily farmers, taking advantage of the which comes in two sizes: a smaller one for everyday use
fertile soil and climate of Benguet. They cultivate two and a larger one for ceremonial occasions. Their attire is
types of rice: kintoman (red, long-grained) and talon often complemented by numerous ornaments and jewelry,
(white, lowland). They also grow root crops, vegetables, showcasing their inclination towards vibrant and decorative
and fruits, and consume a variety of meats, including wild clothing during festivities and important ceremonies
game. Older Ibaloi men often have tattooed arms as a sign
of prestige. Cuisine
The isnags traditionally only consume two meals a day; Language and Culture
one in the mid-morning and one in the late afternoon, or Kalinga people speak the Kalinga language, with several
one at noon and the other in the evening. Though most of dialects that vary between communities. Most Kalinga also
their meals include rice, rice is always scarce because of speak Ilocano, Filipino, and English. Language plays a
the limited womanpower. Hence, they resort to trade to central role in maintaining cultural traditions, as Kalinga
satisfy demands. Meals also include vegetables and root oral literature includes epic stories, chants, and songs that
crops such as camote and occasionally, fish and wild pig or tell the history, beliefs, and values of the people.
wild deer. Dogs, pigs and chickens are only eaten during
feasts and chicken eggs are seldom eaten because they are
Beliefs and Rituals
generally allowed to hatch. Sometimes, before or after
Kalinga spirituality is rooted in the belief in spirits
meals, the typical isneg families enjoy home-grown coffee
connected to nature and ancestors. Rituals are integral to
while gathering around the hearth while rice wine is only
community life, from healing and harvest ceremonies to
consumed during festive occasions.
those ensuring protection or resolving conflicts. Ritual
specialists or elders, known as "mumbaki", lead these
ceremonies, which may involve offerings, chants, and
Itneg Ethnic Group dances. Traditionally, the Kalinga held a strong warrior
ethos; bravery was valued, and headhunting was once
The Itneg (exonym "Tinguian" or "Tingguian") are an practiced as a form of honor and defense. While no longer
Austronesian indigenous peoples from the upland province practiced, these values continue to be celebrated as
of Abra and Nueva Era, Ilocos Norte in northwestern symbols of resilience and strength.
Luzon, Philippines. The Itneg live in the mountainous area
of Abra in northwestern Luzon who descended from Tattooing Tradition
immigrants from Kalinga, Apayao, and the Northern
One of the most distinctive aspects of Kalinga culture is
Kankana-ey. They refer to themselves as Itneg, though the
their tattooing tradition. Tattoos serve as a rite of passage,
Spanish called them Tingguian when they came to the
mark of social status, or indicator of bravery. Traditionally,
Philippines because they are mountain dwellers. The
Kalinga warriors received tattoos as a sign of valor, while
Tingguians are further divided into nine distinct subgroups women adorned tattoos as symbols of beauty and maturity.
which are the Adasen, Mabaka, Gubang, Banao, Binongon, The tattoos are made using thorn-based tools and natural
Danak, Moyodan, Dawangan, and Inlaud/Illaud. ink, with patterns representing nature, spirits, and tribal
identity. Apo Whang-Od, one of the last traditional tattoo
Spanish era migrations to Abra artists, has gained recognition for preserving this art,
During pre-colonial times, the Itneg mostly lived near the passing on her skills to apprentices and keeping the
coasts of Northern Luzon, where they interacted closely tradition alive.
with the Ilocanos. By the time the Spanish colonizers
arrived, they had only a few inland settlements, but Social Structure and Peace Pacts
colonial pressures forced many of them to move inland Kalinga society is organized into clans, with elders and
during the sixteenth and senventeenth century. Most of community leaders guiding social, legal, and political
them settled in Abra, which then became the Itneg matters. The "bodong" system, a traditional peace-pact
heartland. agreement, helps maintain peace between Kalinga villages
or neighboring groups. The "bodong" involves ceremonial
Discrimination during the Marcos dictatorship negotiations, gifts, and agreements on mutual respect and
The Itneg have faced ethnic discrimination and violence, cooperation, demonstrating the Kalinga’s commitment to
with the era of Martial law under Ferdinand Marcos being communal harmony.
a well-documented period of particular violence,[3] mostly
linked to the infringement of the Marcos crony linked Challenges and Resilience
Cellophil Resources Corporation on forest resources in Today, the Kalinga face challenges such as land rights
traditionally Itneg lands. issues, development pressures, and cultural preservation
amidst modernization. Yet, their cultural practices,
Superstitious Beliefs including weaving, wood carving, and tattooing, continue
The Itnegs believe in the existence of numerous to thrive, supported by efforts to safeguard their heritage.
supernatural powerful beings. They believe in spirits and The Kalinga people remain resilient, balancing their rich
deities, the greatest of which they believe to be Kadaklan traditions with contemporary influences, striving to keep
who lives up in the sky and who created the earth, the their identity and cultural values alive.
moon, the stars, and the sun. The Itnegs believe in life after
death, which is in a place they call maglawa. They take
special care to clean and adorn their dead to prepare them
for the journey to maglawa. The corpse is placed in a death
chair (sangadel) during the wake.

Tuwali Ethnic Group

The Tuwali are an indigenous ethnic group who live
Kalinga Ethnic Group primarily in the mountainous Ifugao province of the
northern Philippines. They are one of the many subgroups
The Kalinga are an indigenous ethnic group from the
that make up the larger Ifugao people. They are best known
Cordillera mountain region, primarily in Kalinga Province,
for their rich cultural heritage, which includes their
northern Luzon, Philippines. Known for their warrior
connection to the world-famous Banaue Rice Terraces,
heritage, complex social structures, and intricate tattooing
which they and other Ifugao groups have cultivated over
traditions, the Kalinga people have a vibrant culture deeply
thousands of years.
connected to the land, community, and spirituality.
Culture and Language northern Luzon. Their war-dance (the bangibang) is one of
The Tuwali people speak the Tuwali dialect, a variation of thecultural remnants of the time of tribal conflict. This
the Ifugao language. This language is part of the Malayo- dance is traditionallyheldonthe walls of the rice terraces by
Polynesian language family and is unique to the Ifugao the men, equipped with spears, axesand wooden shields
people, encompassing distinct terms related to their and a headdress made of leaves. The
agricultural practices, rituals, and traditional beliefs. Ifugaohavetraditionally believed their lives were ruled by
spirits called “anitos”. theIfugao are called Igorot. They
live in the north of the Luzon isleof thePhilippines, in the
Traditions and Beliefs
middle of enchanting rice fieldsThe Ifugao
Tuwali culture is deeply tied to their ancestral land and
communityknew 3 social classes: at the bottom of the
agricultural way of life. They practice rice cultivation on
social ladder are thepoor (nawotwot), then the middle class
steep terraces, built with a sophisticated irrigation system
(tagu), and finally the rich elite(kadangyans). The Ifugao
that channels water from mountain streams. These terraces
knew no written literature. The many Ifugaomyths were
are a source of pride and cultural identity, often seen as a
performed or sung. In these myths, it is
testament to the Tuwali's engineering skills and deep
describedhowtheIfugao view the world around them, and
relationship with the land. The Tuwali also maintain a rich
the genesis of the first manandwoman. However, many
set of indigenous beliefs, with a strong focus on ancestral
religious rituals and practices were described, which were
spirits and nature worship. They perform rituals to honor
used to please the gods and spirits. Ifugao
ancestors, ensure good harvests, and ask for protection
religionisacomplex mixture of animism, worship of
from natural forces. These rituals often include chanting,
ancestors, and magic. TheIfugaobelieve that their faith is
dances, and offerings.
fully determined by the will of the gods. Inorderto keep
these gods pleased, they were called on special
Arts and Crafts occasionsinIfugao life, such as disease, marriage, or
Tuwali craftsmanship is another key part of their cultural harvest. In order to heal thesick, the Ifugao know various
identity, known for their traditional weaving, wood rituals that were carried out by a priest (mombaki),
carving, and basketry. The designs in their textiles and comparable to a shaman. A prominent god is Bulul,
carvings often feature geometric patterns that symbolize thegodofrice.
aspects of their environment, cosmology, and daily life.
Traditional clothing for the Tuwali is often bright,
incorporating woven patterns that have specific cultural KARAO (BENGUET)
meanings. The Karao tribe, located in the barangay of Karao in
Bokod, Benguet, is an indigenous community within the
Social Structure larger Ibaloi ethnic group. Their history is deeply
connected to their highland environment, where they have
Tuwali society is traditionally organized into clans or kin
lived for centuries.
groups, with elders playing a significant role in decision-
making. The community respects these elders for their
The Karao people have traditionally sustained themselves
knowledge of history, customs, and traditions. Leadership
through farming, hunting, and gathering. Their agricultural
is often based on wisdom, social influence, and respect
methods, such as rice terraces and swidden farming,
rather than wealth. In modern times, the Tuwali people,
demonstrate their deep understanding of and harmony with
like many indigenous groups, face challenges such as
nature. These practices are accompanied by cultural rituals
modernization, migration, and land issues. Efforts are
and ceremonies that strengthen community bonds and
being made to preserve their culture, particularly in the
respect for the environment.
face of globalization, to keep their traditions and unique
identity alive for future generations.
The Karao people, an indigenous group in Benguet,
traditionally wear clothing that reflects their cultural
heritage and environment. Men often don the "wanes," a
Ayangan Ethnic Group traditional loincloth, while women wear the "kambal," a
The Ayangan Tribe is an important tribe in the province of wraparound skirt. Both garments are typically made from
Ifugao, Philippines. They form the majority of the people handwoven fabric featuring intricate patterns and vibrant
in at least threemunicipalities (Lamut, Asipulo, and colors, symbolizing their identity and connection to their
Aguinaldo) and arguably in3othermunicipalities. The land. Over time, while modern influences have introduced
Ayangans are distinct from the other twotribesinlanguage contemporary clothing styles, the Karao community
and other cultural aspects such as dance and beliefs. continues to wear traditional attire during cultural
Theyarecalled derisively as Illagud, Ifiahe, or Iyayangan. ceremonies and festivals, preserving their heritage and
At present, however, theAyangan people are proud of their showcasing their pride in their cultural roots.
cultural identity. They are alsomoreunited thanever and are
now a political force to reckon with. Thoughtheyhave long During the Spanish colonial period, the Karao, like many
ago clamored for a municipality they can call their own, highland tribes in the Cordillera region, largely remained
noneof the political leaders have outside Spanish control due to the region’s rugged terrain
and their strong resistance. This allowed them to preserve
their autonomy and maintain their traditional way of life.

Ifugao Ethnic Group The arrival of American colonizers in the early 20th
The Ifugao is a group that lives in a mountainous region of century brought changes, including the construction of
north-central Luzon around the of town Banaue. Also roads and the introduction of formal education and
known as the Ifugaw, Ipugao, Yfugao, they are former Christianity. While these developments brought benefits,
headhunters who are famous for their spectacular they also posed challenges to cultural preservation.
mountain-hugging rice terraces. The Ifugao are
believedtohave arrived from China around 2000 years ago. In the post-World War II era, the integration of Benguet
Their first contact withthe outside world was through into the national economy introduced commercial
American military officers andschoolteachers early in the vegetable farming, bringing economic opportunities as well
20th century.In the past the Ifugaowerefeared head- as challenges like land disputes and environmental
hunters, just as other tribes in the mountainous regionsof degradation. The Karao people adapted by balancing
traditional practices with new economic activities, striving
to protect their land and resources.

Today, the Karao tribe continues to celebrate their cultural

heritage through festivals, music, dance, and crafts,
ensuring that their traditions are passed on to future
generations.

Their history is one of resilience and adaptation, honoring

their past while embracing the future.

MANDEK’EY (BENGUET)
The Mandek-Ey tribe is an indigenous group from
Benguet, a province in the northern Philippines. They are
part of the larger Igorot people, who have lived in the
mountainous regions of the Cordillera for centuries. The
Mandek-Ey tribe is known for their close connection to the
land, and they rely heavily on farming. They grow rice,
vegetables, and root crops, often in the terraced fields that
are a hallmark of the region's agricultural tradition.

Their community life has always been built on strong

family ties and cooperation. The Mandek-Ey people have a
deep respect for nature and believe in spirits that influence
their daily lives. They perform rituals and ceremonies to
honor these spirits, especially to ensure good harvests and
the well-being of their families.

The traditional clothing of the Mandek-Ey tribe reflects

their close relationship with nature and their practical
needs for the environment they live in. Women typically
wear handwoven skirts made from cotton or indigenous
fibers, often decorated with simple patterns. Men wear a
woven loincloth called bahag, along with a belt and
sometimes a headpiece. These clothes are designed to be
comfortable for working in the fields and performing
rituals. Over time, while modern clothing has influenced
their daily wear, the Mandek-Ey continue to wear their
traditional attire during special ceremonies and cultural
events to honor their heritage.

The Mandek'ey have a variety of traditions that emphasize

community and continuity. One of their most cherished
traditions is the annual harvest festival, which celebrates
the bounty of the land and reinforces communal bonds.
During this festival, people come together to share food,
music, and dance, expressing gratitude for the year's
blessings.

Another important tradition is the rite of passage for young

adults, which includes a series of challenges designed to
test their skills and prepare them for adult responsibilities.
These traditions are vital in maintaining the social fabric of
the Mandek'ey community and ensuring the transmission
of their cultural heritage.

These tasks often include activities like hunting, crafting

traditional items, and demonstrating proficiency in
agricultural skills.

Over time, the Mandek-Ey tribe has faced changes from

outside influences, including modern development. Despite
these challenges, they continue to value their traditions,
including their language, rituals, and way of life. Today,
the Mandek-Ey people work to preserve their culture while
adjusting to the modern world, ensuring their unique
identity is passed on to future generations.