Rizal Technological University

Maybunga, Pasig City

College of Education

PHILIPPINE
INDIGENOUS
COMMUNITY

NAME: MARZON, JERALDIN R.

SECTION CODE AND SCHEDULE: PCED-03-401P

 COMPILATION

CAR- CORDILLERA ADMINISTRATIVE REGION

The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) of the Philippines is a land-locked
region consists of the provinces of Abra, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain
Province and Apayao. Baguio City is the regional center. The Cordillera region
encompasses most of the areas within the Cordillera Central mountain range of Luzon,
the largest range in the country. This region is home to numerous indigenous tribes
collectively called the Igorot.

On July 15, 1987, Executive Order No. 220 was issued creating the Cordillera
Administrative Region. It is composed of provinces which used to be part of the Old
Mountain Province. Republic Act No. 6766 was passed on October 23, 1989. It
provided for an Organic Act for the Cordillera Autonomous Region. It mandates the
creation of an autonomous government to be headed by a Regional Governor. It
creates a Regional Assembly that will enact laws of regional application and a
regional judiciary composed of a supreme court and lower courts. The act also directs
the proposed autonomous government in the Cordillera to exercise governmental
functions, including the raising of taxes, but excluding defense, foreign affairs and
monetary functions. However, the Constitution requires that the act has to be ratified
by the people in a plebiscite. It was originally scheduled on December 27 of the same
year but was reset to January 30 the following by virtue of the Commission on
Elections. During the said plebiscite, it was only Ifugao which voted favorably.
 Republic Act No. 8438 dated December 22, 1997 created the Cordillera
Autonomous Region. In January 1998, a group of lawyers challenged the
constitutionality of the act. A plebiscite held on March 9 of the same year was held
and invalidated the act. The region was created but reduced to a regular administrative
region.

WE FOCUS ON TWO PROVINCES THE ABRA AND BENGUET

ABRA - THE PHILIPPINES' NATURAL DYE CAPITAL

The Province of Abra is now known as the ""Natural Dye Capital of the
Philippines"" because it is blessed with abundant natural dye-yielding plants. Natural
dyes are extracted from the barks, leaves, fruits, and roots of these plants, and used to
color food, beverages, textiles, cosmetics, furniture, and pharmaceutical products.
 The revival of Abra's dyeing tradition had been the project of former Governor
Ma. Zita Claustro-Valera. It started in 1992 with the Katutubong Foundation, Inc.,
headed by former First Lady Amelita ""Ming"" Ramos, with the help of designer Patis
Tesoro who is renowned for using ethnic designs and fabrics for her haute couture
creations.

Another revival project that is related to the province's natural dye industry is
loom weaving and embroidery.

As of 1990, there were 743 cottage industries in Abra, of which 208 are
registered with the Department of Trade and Indusrty. 59% are engaged in bamboo
and rattan craft making, both leading industries in the area. In 1992, the natural dye
industry together with loom weaving and embroidery were revived by former
Governor Ma. Zita Claustro-Valera. Other popular industries are piggery and poultry,
garment craft, and needlecraft.

TRIBES OR INDIGENOUS PEOPLE IN ABRA

Tinggian (Itneg, Binongan)- The Itneg (exonym "Tinguian" or "Tingguian" ) are an

Austronesian ethnic group from the upland province of Abra in northwestern Luzon,
in the Philippines. The native Itneg language is a South-Central Cordilleran dialect.
Otherwise known as Itneg or literally, Itineg, which means people living near the
Tineg river (Tinguian, Tinguianes, Itinek, Mandaya, Tingian), the group has been
classified into several subgroupings: Adassen, Binongan, Inlaod, Masadiit, Aplai,
Banao, Gubang, Maeng, Luba, and Balatok, although the latter might be a Kalinga
group. The population range is 51,422 with concentrations in the towns of Tubo
(4,535), Manabo (3,250), Sallapadan (3,525), San Quintin (3,370), Luba (4,746), and
Boliney (3,694) in the province of Abra (NSO 1990). Outside Abra, they number most
in Ilocos Sur (4,920) and Iloilo (1,113). There is a very close affinity with the nearby
Ilocano groups with whom they have a continual relationship.

There are two general groupings: the valley Tinggian which are an homogenous
and concentrated population found in the lower reaches of the province of Abra that
thrive on wet rice cultivation; the mountainTinggian that depend on dry cultivation
and root crops in the higher elevations. Traditionally, the Tinggian live in fortified
villages adjacent to the swidden fields. They differ from other Philippine ethnic
groups in that their dress is basically white, with the women known for the heavily
beaded and full lower arm ornaments. The village is the political unit with a lakay as
the head, assisted by a council of elders. The indigenous religion recognizes Kadaklan
as the supreme deity, often identified also with Kabunyian, and other animistic deities.
The ritual specialists and healers are usually women. Prestige feasts by men, sayang,
are common among the Cordillera groups and usually aspired for by most people with
sufficient kin support.

COSTUMES

An old photo of Itneg/ Tinggians

Men who live in Abra Wearing a
Bahag.
A Male Itneg/ Tingguan in present
time dancing in Kawayan Festival
wearing a colorful bahag/ g-sring.

A Female Itneg/ Tingguan in

Kawayan Festival wearing a dress
is basically white for the younger
and skirt, blouse for the older.
 LOVE, COURTSHIP, MARRIAGE, JOBS

LOVE/ COURTSHIP/ MARRIAGE

The Ifugao of
northern Luzon practices a
courtship called ca-i-sing
(this practice is known as
the ebgan to the Kalinga
tribes and as pangis to the
Tingguian tribes), wherein
males and females are
separated into "houses".
The house for the Filipino
males is called the Ato, while the house for Filipino females is known as the olog or
agamang. The males visit the females in the olog – the "betrothal house" – to sing
romantic songs. The females reply to these songs also through singing. The ongoing
courtship ritual is overseen by a married elder or a childless widow who keeps the
parents of the participating males and females well informed of the progress of the
courtship process.

COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE

1.Kalon or child engagement

Among the Tinguians the kalon or child betrothal was practiced for a long time.
Practices and societies have changed, however there are still some who continue to
practiced kalon even in these changing times. When a boy is about six to eight years
old he is matched with a girl. His parents or intermediary visits the parents of the girl
and give engagement tree beads signifying the intentions. If the offer is accepted the
beads are tied around the waist of the girl as a sign of engagement.

2. Singlip

Singlip is an engagement ritual for adults done when the man’s family visit the
woman’s family. The agreements will include the sabong and the pamauso which is
the gift to the bride’s family. Tadek is the appropriate dance during this occasion and
a pig is usually butchered for the meal during the planning of the marriage.

3.Pakalon/wolwac

This is the engagement ritual where a pig is butchered when dowry is settled.
During the ceremony the man and woman sit with two bowls and two beads placed
into the bowls which they are to drink to ensure lifetime union. Next is the rice
ceremony where the bride and the groom each hold rice formed into a ball. The groom
tosses his ball up the air, if the ball remains whole when it falls on the floor then it is
good omen, if it breaks or rolls , they will postpone the wedding. The bride lets her
rice ball fall in between the bamboo slats of the floor as an offering to the spirits.

Traditionally, on the wedding night the couple are to sleep in the bride’s house
with a pillow between them and a head ax under the pillow of the groom. The next
night the are to sleep in the house of the groom. The girl is expected to bring beddings
to sleep on.

4.Tugtugaw

In Boliney the courtship ritual is the tugtugaw. A mediator bulallo assists

when the man’s group goes through the forest and gathers wood and brings to the
house of the woman. If the family receives them and butcher a pig for the man’s group
then it is a sign that they respect the intention of the man and his friends. The
acceptance starts a dialogue where they ask the bulallo which man in the group has
intentions. The pides (bile and liver) of the pig is studied and if acceptable then the
wedding plans are made, if signs are not favorable then it is postponed.

Discussion includes how much money, ules (bankets) dingwa (native skirts) and
batek (beads) are to be offered to the woman’s parents. An imbentario is prepared.
During the wedding the relatives of the woman check the completion of the
imbentario as documented during the courtship period.

In instances where the woman is unsure, the man live in the house of the
woman and they are given the opportunity to know each other. Should the woman
refuse the man a multa (fine ) is levied. This goes to the council of elders who
negotiated the match and another fine to man’s family.

JOBS

The Bamboo Split Weavers

The Tingguians, also called Isneg, are engaged in various crafts. The most
important of which is bamboo crafts production. It is for this reason that Abra is
aggressively positioning itself as the “Bamboo Capital of the Philippines”.
 FOOD DELICACIES

PALILENG

Abra food for me is palileng, nakamatisan nga bunolan, pinakbet nga

nasagpawan ti chicharron, dried lentils nga naidengdeng nga nasagpawan ti dried
palileng, lechon stuffed with karimbuaya, and a lot more.

The kampa is a very rare fish said to be found only in Abra River. It abounds
during the summer, especially in the municipality of Lagayan. Its white flesh and
delicate flavor is at its best when cooked simply a la sinigang (sour soup) with just
pias or barusbus (young tamarind leaves) and salt to taste.
Abuos

Summer is the time for abuos or the eggs of big, red ants. Gathered by poking a
hole through their treetop nests the abuos sauteed with garlic, onions and lowland
tomatoes, have a rich and tangy taste and is a rare delicacy.
Cascaron

Cascaron comes with molasses production. After the sugarcane is gathered, the
tedious, dizzying and time-consuming going round-and-round of the carabao to move
the wooden contraption that squeezes its juice follows. Then the juice is boiled in very
high heat inside humongous vats called siliasi.
Abal-Abal

The abal-abal looks like a June beetle but is darker. It is gathered during the
first rains between May and June along the river banks (ig-igid ti waig) at dusk when
they fly out of the sandy soil. A whole community of abal-abal hunters come out
armed with nets and other proven contraptions. Some even believe that putting
pomade on the hair attracts the abal-abal, making it easier to just pick them. The abal-
abal and ararawan are cooked the same way, with vinegar and a little salt to taste
kinirog style.
 TOURIST SPOTS

Piwek Rock Formation

It is quite a challenge to get here. But the view and pleasure it gives are simply
beyond words’ description. Biyahe ni Andrew once featured this among the tourist
spots in Abra. Similar to Tinipak River in Rizal, Piwek Rock Formations are a cluster
of white rocks and boulders along the river.

The turquoise and clear waters of the river make this even more alluring to visit.
The rock formations are becoming popular jumping spots. The highest of which is
around 11 meters. Well, the locals love jumping from this point. And many tourists
tried it already.

Location/Jump-off: Brgy Alaoa, Tineg, Abra

Trekking Time: 30 minutes

Guide Fee: Php 200 for 5 persons

 Tagpew/Tagpao Falls

Tagpew falls majestically on the face of a massive cliff. It measures around 120
meters high, making it one of the highest falls in Abra province. To get here, one has
to hike for three to five hours from sitio Batayan of barangay Alangtin. Thick pine
forests cover much of the trail.

Location/Jump-off: Tubo, Abra

Trekking Time: 7 hours

Guide Fee: Donation

 LIBTEC CRYSTAL CAVE

This is one of the famous tourist spots/attractions in Abra province. It is also

called Quiling Crystal Cave. According to the locals, the cave was already popular
among hunters and trappers from a nearby community. It hosts numerous bats locally
known as kurarapnit. Unfortunately, their population dwindled due to overhunting.

The cave has numerous chambers. It boasts of wonderfully-formed stalagmites,

stalactites, straws, drapery, and flowstones. These formations portray the shape of a
horse, a bird, a banana blossom, and many more. Unlike in other caves, spelunking
here is relatively easy. You don’t need to wade on water, rappel, or crawl into narrow
openings.

Location/Jump-off: Dolores, Abra

Trekking Time: 30 minutes

Entrance Fee: None

 MT. POSWEY

Standing at more than 1,546 meters above sea level, Mt. Poswey ranks among
the highest mountains of Abra. The trail presents challenges before one can finally
assault the summit. For one, there are steep and uphill parts of the trail. Fallen trees
and eroded portions also add to the menace. Further, leeches abound during especially
during the rainy months. However, the views all along are rewarding. What more if
one gets to the top? Mt. Poswey is a prime biodiversity area. In fact, the critically-
endangered Philippine eagle has been sighted in the area. This mountain, therefore,
must be given attention and protection. Mt Poswey is one of the off-beaten Abra
tourist spots/attractions.

Location/Jump-off: Brgy Bao-ayan, Boliney, Abra

Trekking Time: 3-4 hours

 APAO ROLLING HILLS

Apao Rolling Hills casts a view of the mountains like the grassy meadows of
European hinterlands. From the viewpoint at Vira, one can gaze on wave-like hills as
far as the eyes could see. Grasses and a few shrubs and trees cover these hills.
During summer months, the hills appear brown. However, they turn green
during the rainy months. Either way, the views of it are simply breathtaking. Different
activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. According to the locals,
however, vast forests covered these hills. However, they were heavily logged during
the Marcos regime. Apao Rolling Hills are now one of the famous Abra tourist spots.
Location/Jump-off: Tineg, Abra
Contact: 092 777 258 56

RELIGION
 Traditional religion is based on beliefs in the spirits or anitos, locally called
"sasailo" who are natural deities, leader spirits (good or bad), and ancestral spirits.
Spirits are revered and feared. They have adopted certain measures to protect
themselves and property. They conduct ceremonies, offer food and drinks, and
perform magical acts to ill-disposed spirits to assure good harvests.

INDIGENOUS ITNEG RELIGION

Among the deities of the Itneg pantheon are:

 Bagatulayan – The Supreme Being and Creator of the world. He lives and rules
the celestial realm, directing its activities.
 Apadel/Kalagang - A deity who is known to be the guardian and dweller of the
spirit-stones called pinaing which play an important role in the spiritual world
of the Tinguian. Of various sizes and shapes, the pinaing are usually found in
spots marked out as hallowed ground, often under old trees, and are deemed to
be the protectors of such places and of the creatures who live in the forests.
 Kadaklan - Is a deity subordinate to Bagatulayan. He is a friendly spirit who
teaches the Tinguian how to pray, harvest their crops, ward off evil spirits, and
overcome bad omens and cure sicknesses.
 Makaboteng (one who frightens) – A benevolent spirit who dwells in the
natural surroundings, believed to be the guardian of the deer and the wild pigs.

RELIGIOUS PRACTICES
ORIGINAL RELIOUS PRACTICES FROM PAST TILL THIS PRESENT
TIME

The Tinguian has been taught by his elders that he is surrounded by a great
body of spirits, some good, some malevolent. The folk-tales handed down from
ancient times add their authority to the teachings of older generations, while the
individual himself has seen the bodies of the mediums possessed by the superior
beings; he has communicated with them direct, has seen them cure the sick and
predict coming events. At many a funeral, he has seen the medium squat before the
corpse, chanting a weird song, and then suddenly become possessed by the spirit of
the deceased; and, finally, he or some of his friends or townspeople are confident that
they have seen and talked to ghosts of the recently departed. All these beings are real
to him; he is so certain of their existence that he seldom speculates about them or their
acts.

Some of these spirits are always near; and a part of them, at least, take more
than an ordinary interest in human affairs. Thanks to the teachings of the elders, the
Tinguian knows how to propitiate them; and, if necessary, he may even compel
friendly action on the part of many. Toward the less powerful of the evily disposed
beings, he shows indifference or insolence; he may make fun of, or lie to, and cheat
them during the day, but he is careful to guard himself at night against their
machinations. To the more powerful he shows the utmost respect; he offers them gifts
of food, drink, and material objects; and conducts ceremonies in the manner
demanded by them. Having done these things, he feels that he is a party to a bargain;
and the spirits must, on their part, repay by granting the benefits desired. Not entirely
content with these precautions, he performs certain magical acts which prevent evil
spirits from doing harm to an individual or a community, and by the same means he is
able to control storms, the rise of streams, and the growth of crops. It is doubtful if the
Tinguian has ever speculated in regard to this magical force, yet he clearly separates it
from the power resident in the spirit world. It appears to be a great undifferentiated
force to which spirits, nature, and men are subject alike.

DANCES, RITUAL AND MUSIC

DANCES. RITUALS, MUSIC AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE

THE BODONG, THE PEACE PACT

1. Sipat

This ritual is where the two agreeing tribes or community exchange gifts to signify
the peace pact agreement. Designated representatives from the agreeing parties are
called the peace pact holders. They are the primary actors in the Sipat. This ritual
comes after observing desirable signs though birds and natural signs. A pig or chicken
is butchered and eaten by those present and the bile and liver are observed that
signifies the future of the peace agreement.

2. Singlip

This is a festive sacred ritual for at least two days where the two agreeing tribes
eat, dance and chant the uggayam and sallidumay. To the Maengs they dance the
takik, the palook or balliwes, the suklit, pinalaiyan. Initial agreements in the Pagta are
crafted which includes safe passage, peace maintenance, territorial boundaries, type of
violations, fine provisions for violations of the facets of the agreement.

3. Inum

Inum is done after the Singlip to seal the peace pact, and basi is drank (inum) by all
the members of the community.

4. Delnat
 Delnat is a ritual of the peace pact known as warming and done after several years
that the peace pact was in effect. Not that the peace pact grew cold but the relationship
is celebrated in festivities to further strengthen the peace pact specially when broken
for many years.

DEATH AND BURIAL RITES

1. Pagpagada/Palpalubos/pakpakada

Death is accepted with a belief in the afterlife. Palpalubos is performed the eve of
the burial. Everyone gathers around the deceased and enact the rite of the palpalubos
or farewell. Members of the immediate family chant their farewell words. Someone is
asked to isaop (representative) of the dead person who bids the living goodbye.

2. Kelyas

This is a ritual performed immediately after the internment where the ceremony
includes dancing and chanting to assuage the pain of the bereaved. This signifies the
releasing the dead to the great beyond.

3. Pabalon

This is the rite done the day after internment where the favorite food and things
valued by the dead are placed on top of the tomb. A bonfire is lit to signify warming
the dead.

EXISTING PROBLEMS
Abra is a province in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) that is
notorious for its records of election-related violence more than any other thing.
Development is slow in this province and not much is really happening inside. It is,
therefore, not at all surprising that this place is not one of those that would be in
 your priority of places to see in the Philippines: to mention that you are going to
Abra to other Filipinos will surely invite some stare of judgment and even dissent.

ABOUT BENGUET!

Benguet, together with Abra, Apayao, Baguio City, Ifugao, Kalinga, and
Mountain Province comprise the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) in Northern
Luzon. It has a Mountainous terrain of peaks, ridges, and canyons; and a temperate
and generally pleasant climate.

The population of Benguet in the 2015 census was 446,224 people,[4] making it
the most populous province in the region. It had a density of 160 inhabitants per
square kilometer or 410 inhabitants per square mile. If the highly urbanized city of
Baguio is included for geographical purposes, the population is 791,590, with a
density of 280/km2 (725/sq. mi).

TRIBES OR INDIGENOUS PEOPLE IN BENGUET

IBALOI- “People from Baloy”, a village in Itogon near the Agno river between
Dalupirip and Ambuklao. The Ibaloi are the highlanders of Benguet and the city of
Baguio. The Ibalois are collectively known as “Igorot”. They traditionally live by
 cultivating rice and agriculture. They belong to Malayo-Polynesian branch of the
Austronesian language family.

COSTUME

KAMBAL OR
BLOUSE
KULABAW

KUVAL
SKIRT OR
DIVERT

FEMALE: Their clothing indicates the social class they belong to. The rich women
or the bacnang wear colorful blouse and skirt that has black as the emerging color.
The abiteg or the poor women on the other hand wear black and white blouse and
skirt.
MALE: Male usually wear a G-string or the Kuval and a blanket wirt dark blue
design is called Kulabaw usually for wealthy Ibaloi

LOVE, COURTSHIP, MARRIAGE, JOBS

JOBS

Ibaloi are Farmers- rice is the main crop of people in Benguet and Vegetables

Eventually they produce two variety of rice the

Kintoman planted during tiya-kow or cooled season

The other variety of rice is talon-a and sibid-o planted

during rainy season.

Swidden Farming- also is common jobs of Ibaloi,

people are planting root crops, corn, cowpeas, and bananas

Mining- Ibaloi in the gold-rich areas of Benguet are engaged in small scale mining.

COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE

When it comes to courtship and marriage, there are three ways that Ibaloi
culture do namely: kaising, kalon, and Ngilinor arol. Kaising is an arranged
marriage. Engagement happens between the parents of the couple. The marriage is
arranged as early during the childhood days of the couple. The kalon on the other
hand is a marriage that has a “mediator” or someone that arranges the marriage.
Ngilin or arol is the wedding ceremony that lasts for eight days at least (Cariňo,
1985).
FOOD DELICACIES

MEATS
Pinikpikan - bloodied chicken dish prepared
in the cañao ritual.

Pinopeg – "Ibaloi blood sausage"

Kiniing - in Kapangan, "a smoked

version of the salt-cured meat etag"

RICE CAKE

Diket turon - a triple treat of saba, camote and

glutinous rice.

Red
Benguet rice
suman
TOURIST SPOTS
MT. PULAG NATIONAL PARK

BURNHAM PARK
TIMBAC CAVES

BAHONG ROSE GARDENS

RELIGION
IBALOI TRIBES RELIGION AND MOST OF
PEOPLE IN BENGUET BEFORE THE
COLONIZATION THEY BELIEVE IN ANITO.

Spirit and Deity

2 kinds of Anitos are known for the Ibaloys

-the nature spirits

-the ancestral spirits (ka-apuan).

RELIGIOUS PRACTICES
The spirits are called upon with offerings of
animal, ”tapey ", food and other desired/prescribed
materials of favors received or restored health. In any
ritual rice wine, tapey (Kn)/ tafey(Ib) is always used
being the traditional wine, and the pig as the traditional
animal. Since there are classes of spirits, the rituals are
performed to conform with the spirit's demands. The
Kabunyan/Kavunian, Ap-apo/Kaapuan,
Kakading/Kedaringare offered thanksgiving rituals.
They receive the most ritual for being benevolent to
man. Likewise, spirits that are easily offended and
violent, like the Tomongaw/Tinmongaw, Pinten/pinchen,
amlag/atoros, pinad-ing/pinad-eng, are offered appeasement ritual called the
Dilus(Kn.) chilus(Ibaloy).

DANCES, RITUAL AND MUSIC

Rites and Rituals

Ritual necessitate the butchering of appropriate sacrificial animals, drinking of
tafey, and the chanting of appropriate prayers by the mambunong is never absent in
the ceremonies.

Ibaloy rituals ae classified into 3:

1. For the purpose of curing illness caused by spirits;

A. Ampasit
B. Dosad
C. Sikop or Sigop
D. Kolos
E. Sibisib
2. Ceremonies for specific events, like;
A. Dasadas
B. Begnas
C. Amlog
D. Basal-lang
E. Sabosab
3. Ceremonies related to offering for spirits and deties, like;
A. Podad
B. Tawal
C. Lawit
D. Tomo
 E. Topya

Cañao or kanyao is simply

a"festival" or ceremony or liturgy, or
service or rite/ritual, of offering. It is a
generic term. "Witchcraft" would be too
limited or off the mark to describe it. A
"kanyao" may be performed for
thanksgiving for the health of the
community, there could be a kanyao
(petitionary/intercessory) for a bountiful
harvest; a family kanyao may be
performed for healing such as a very
simple ritual of "sedey" with the use of water and prayer; a "grand kanyao" has the
focus of entertainment, cultural shows and festivities.

EXISTING PROBLEMS
Despite of development that made by the local government of Benguet there are
several problems that face by the province according to National Economic and
Development Authority of Cordillera Region. Slow implementation of the IPRA. The
implementation of the IPRA is very slow. Its passage more than a decade ago raised
expectations which to this day remain to be the same. The IRR is not yet finalized
leading to the slow implementation of the law. Through the ADB-assisted CHARM
Project, a significant assistance was given to NCIP to enhance its delivery
mechanisms. Insurgency – The region remains infested with six Guerilla Fronts,
affecting 44 barangays. This remains to be a threat even with 5 Internal Security
Operations in the region. Tribal Conflicts, Emerging cultural conflicts.

REGION VII CENTRAL VISAYAS

Central Visayas (Cebuano: Tunga-tungang Kabisay-an) is a region of the
Philippines, numerically designated as Region VII. It consists of four provinces
(Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor) and three highly urbanized cities (Cebu
City, Lapu-Lapu, and Mandaue). Major islands are the eponymous Cebu, Bohol, and
Siquijor, together with the eastern part of Negros. The regional center and largest city
is Cebu City. The region is dominated by the native speakers of four Visayan
languages: Cebuano, Bantayanon, Boholano, and Porohanon. The land area of the
region is 15,895.66 km2 (6,137.35 sq mi), and with a population of 7,396,898
inhabitants, it is the second most populous region in the Visayas.

CENTRAL VISAYAS HAS FOR PROVINCE BUT WE FOCUS ON TWO

BOHOL AND CEBU.

BOHOL
Bohol Island is the main island of BoholProvince in the Visayas. It lies
southeast from Cebu Island across the Cebu Strait (in some references called Bohol
Strait) and southwest from Leyte Island, separated by the Camotes Sea and Canigao
Channel. Bohol is also located north of Mindanao with the Bohol Sea between them.
Unlike Luzon and the northern part of the Visayas, Bohol is mostly unaffected by the
numerous typhoons that hit the country. The weather is mostly mild all year round.
When typhoons do hit the island, they usually cross quickly and are no longer
powerful, their energy dissipated by the mountains in Leyte and Samar.

BOHOLANO PEOPLE
The Boholano people, also called Bolanon, refers to the people who live in the
island province of Bohol. They are part of the wider Visayans ethnolinguistic group,
who constitute the largest Filipino ethnolinguistic group. Aside from all who live in
Bohol called Boholano there is an interesting tribe in Bohol the Eskaya

ESKAYA!

The Eskaya is an
indigenous tribe found in
the hinterlands of the
towns of Duero,
Guindulman, Pilar and
Sierra Bullones, Bohol’s
southeast interior. The
settlement of this tribe is
at Biabas, Guindulman,
established in the early
20th century by one
Mariano Datahan.
Datahan died in the year 1949.

A second settlement was established at Taytay, under the municipality of Duero

in the year 1951; founded by Fabian Baja under Datahan’s instructions. Eventually,
the group spread to nearby Canta-ub, Lundag, Tambongan, Cadapdapan and Fatimah.

Likewise known as the “Visayan-Eskaya”, the community is only found in the

island province of Bohol. They have a unique cultural heritage, use a distinct language
and literature, and have traditional practices that dates way back to pre-Spanish times.

Eventually, the group was recognized and the community awarded a Certificate
of Ancestral Domain Claim (CADC) in 1996 by President Fidel V. Ramos. CADC
No. R7-CADC-14 deemed as ancestral domain 3,173 hectares of land in Taytay
(Duero), Biabas (Guindulman), Lundag (Pilar), Canta-ub (Sierra-Bullones), and
Cadapdapan (Candijay).
 Legally, the Eskaya are now classified as an indigenous group under Republic
Act or R.A. No. 8371 entitled “The Indigenous People’s Rights Act of 1997. No
official census has yet been made of the group but a report in 1991 mentioned 130
Eskaya families living in Bohol.

Although the group’s distinct culture, literature and language has baffled
historians over the years, some of these traditional practices are no longer strictly
imposed on the younger generations. A decline in the community’s linguistic and
cultural education has been noted.

COSTUME
Eskaya men wore shirts made
of piña raffia with a Chinese-style
collar, black breeches and cotton
berets. Women wore piña dresses with
bulging sleeves which is definitely of
Spanish influence. This mode of
dressing can still be observed in the
Biabas settlement. In Taytay, the
women cover their heads with cotton
habits.

Eskaya women are not allowed

to cut their hair short nor wear trousers.
Drinking and dancing are likewise a
taboo. But due to modern influences
from neighboring towns and in the name
of “progress” and education, these
customs have been discontinued. Now, the traditional mode of dressing is usually
observed during weekly services and special occasions.

LOVE, COURTSHIP, MARRIAGE, JOBS

WEDDING
At weddings, the parents of the bride offer the couple a glass of water and a
comb. The comb is dipped in the water and run through the hair of both bride and
groom, believing that in doing so, both will remain calm and cool throughout their
marriage. Afterwards, rice is showered on the couple assuring them of material
wealth. This practice is still being observed, not only by the Eskaya, but also by some
Boholanos.

FOOD DELICACIES

If you go to Bohol, prepared your money to buy a pasalubong for your friends.

BOHOLANO UBI POLVORON

 Ubi is a purple variety of yam, for which Bohol is famous. Polvoron is a
delicacy that has its roots in Andalucia, Spain, but has become part of the Spanish
legacy in the Philippines. According to Spanish tradition, you’ll have to say
“Pamplona” as quickly as possible after eating polvoron.

CALAMAY
This is one of the must-try treats when visiting Bohol. Though calamay is
known across that country (with other names), nothing beats the Calamay from Jagna,
enclosed in a coconut shell and sealed with a red band. It is a concoction of glutinous
rice, sugar, coconut milk and some peanuts.
PEANUT KISSES
This is a signature Boholano recipe and only here you can find cookies shaped
like a miniature Chocolate Hills (the famous attraction of Bohol) or Hershey Kisses. It
is basically made of high-quality peanuts and eggs, baked crisp to bring that nutty
crunch in every bite. Every department stores and souvenir shops have displays of
these delicious pasalubongs.
BIBINGKA
There are so many versions of this Philippine treat but basically, it is composed
of rice flour, sugar, butter and coconut milk wrapped in banana leaves. It is served as
“painit” in early in the morning paired with hot coffee or chocolate or an afternoon
snack with cold softdrinks.
TOURIST SPOTS
BLOOD COMPACT SITE
This is where the historical agreement was made. Blood Compact Site is located in
Barangay Bool, Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines. This particular site was made in
honor of a very important event in the Philippine history done between Miguel Lopez
de Legazpi of Spain and Rajah Sikatuna of Bohol.

LOBOC RIVER CRUISE

Enjoy lunch and dinner at Loboc river cruise, it's a floating restaurant along the
river, enjoy fresh air and wild greens along the river bank while enjoying a sumptuous
meal. Food is Php300.00 per person including children plus there is an entrance of
Php 100.00.
SAGBAYAN PEAK
This is also one destination, where there's the famous smallest monkey in the
world, tarsiers. present here also is the kids town, most are for kids enjoyment.
ALONA BEACH RESORTS
Love the white sand beach, foreign nationals are widely visible on these resorts.
So, refreshing is the crystal-clear water and the powdery white sand.

CHOCOLATE HILLS
 The world's famous chocolate hills, destination of most tourists visiting the
Philippines. Its name is chocolate because of its brownish color during summer. it's
not only on hill but thousands of them.

RELIGION
The Eskaya tribe all converted to the Philippine Independent Church under the
direction of Mariano Datahan in 1902. They revered a supreme being which they
called by the name “Suno” and attended weekly church services. The religious
community was headed by a bishop whom they call “biki” and “beriki”. These
spiritual leaders also performed rituals for good harvests, house blessings, weddings
and the like aside from the weekly services.

RELIGIOUS PRACTICES
An Eskaya cannot construct a home without going thru a distinct process. Thru
a ritual, the biki has to ask first the permission of the spirits if the site for the house is
ok or not. If permission is not granted, one has to select another site and undergo
another ritual until permission is granted.

DANCES, RITUAL AND MUSIC

DANCES
SANDUGO FESTIVAL

The Sandugo Festival is an annual historical

celebration that takes place every year in
Tagbilaran City on the island of Bohol in the
Philippines. This festival commemorates the
Treaty of Friendship between Datu Sikatuna, a
chieftain in Bohol, and Spanish conquistador
Miguel López de Legazpi. This 16th-century peace treaty occurred on March 16, 1565
through a blood compact or "sandugo".

The Sandugo Festival is held every July. The Tagbilaran City Charter Day on
July 1 kicks-off the month-long festival with a holy mass, diana, motorcade and
program sponsored by the City Government of Tagbilaran. Among the major
activities during the month is the Miss Bohol Sandugo Beauty Pageant, and the
Sandugo Street Dancing Competition which is usually held on the 3rd or 4th Sunday
of July, and organized by the Bohol Sandugo Foundation, Inc. (BSFI).

EXISTING PROBLEMS
Problems occurring in tourism on Bohol Island according to Amy a tourist.
After staying in Jagna for more than two weeks, I start to have a rather deep thinking
in the economic development in this town and this island. As far as I notice, the
tourism could be viewed as an industry with high potential but not fully developed
yet. In this blog I will be focusing on some problem and show some of my own
opinions in the tourism industry.

The first and the most obvious problem is the transportation condition.
Although the road construction is able to cover to most of the major tourist attractions,
such as Chocolate Hills and Alona Beach, but still not able to reach some less famous
spot. Tourists have to walk in mountains to reach the spot, which is very inconvenient,
and not leaving pleasant impression to them as well. What’s worse is that due to the
weather condition in Bohol, the road is easily be eroded by the heat and rain.
Therefore, to keep road in good condition, regular maintenance is necessary. And for
other place without proper maintenance, the damage to road is obvious, which
increase the difficulty to travel around spots.

CEBU
 There are a number of places you can visit during your stay in the Philippines.
You can either stay in the provinces of Luzon and fall in love with the rice terraces in
Benguet, enjoy the Sky Ranch in Tagaytay, indulge yourself with the breathtaking
view of Batanes, and much more. On the other hand, you can also explore the islands
located in Visayas and Mindanao.

Cebu is one of the most accessible islands in the Philippines. It has been
recognized as one of the most entertaining locations in the country. The island can
easily accommodate all people with different lifestyle: whether you're a foodie, a
beach lover, or an adventurous person, Cebu has it all in spades for you.

PEOPLE OF CEBU

Cebu’s industry leaders, politicians, businessman, artists, Cebuanos who make

an impact on people’s lives. There are some recognized indigenous communities in
Cebu, like the Badjao and the Ati. But there are indigenous people living in Cebu but
not as a community, like those that belong to tribes like the Higaonon, Manobo,
Mansaka, Mangyan, Blaan, Maranaw, Tausug, Sama, Bukidnon, etc.

COSTUME
There are indigenous people in Cebu but not really originated in Cebu and not
as a community. Therefore, I look for the costume that made by the Cebuano and use
in some event like festival.
SINULOG FESTIVAL COSTUME
LOVE, COURTSHIP, MARRIAGE, JOBS
A courtship is a period in a romantic couple's relationship when they are dating.
Most partners go through a courtship before deciding to get married. Courtship is an
old-fashioned word, assuming that two people who love each other will eventually get
married.

In Cebu when courting, the Cebuanos also serenade called as Balak. Man,
always makes his first move or step like going to the woman home; it takes a man
very long time before a girl answer his proposal. For a woman, serenade is one of the
sweetest things a man can do, because he is singing from his heart for a girl to like
him. But sometimes Cebuano ask his friends to act as his go-between or negotiator to
win the woman’s heart, to help him win the favor of the girl he loves.
FOOD DELICACIES
Philippines has an enriched culture. It is a mixing pot of various races that have
stayed in our country. Filipinos adapted to their beliefs, language, architecture, art,
clothing and of course, FOOD!

Cebu, as Philippines' Queen City of the South, with Cebu City as its capital is
the oldest city of the country. A big chunk of the Cebuano culture is the Spanish
culture. But the Indo-Malay still remains, utilizing the island's rich water resources.

PINTOS

Pintos is a specialty of Bogo, Cebu, wherein it is a variety of suman, a Filipino dessert

normally made of glutinous rice with coconut milk. Instead of rice, corn is combined
with condensed milk and butter (or margarine) wrapped with the husk or sheath of the
corn’s ear. It is then steamed into perfection to give out a sweet taste you can combine
with cheese or niyog.
 ROSQUILLOS

Rosquillos are Philippine cookies made from flour, eggs, shortening, sugar, and
baking powder. They were originally created by Margarita “Titay” T. Frasco in 1907
in Liloan, Cebu. The name means "ringlet" in Spanish (from rosca, "ring") and was
reputedly coined by Philippine President Sergio Osmeña.

BUDBUD KABOG

The Budbod Kabog is made from a cereal plant called “kabog.” It is mixed with
coconut milk and sugar before wrapping it with banana leaves. The main ingredient is
also known as the millet and is abundant in the mountains of Catmon, Cebu. The
residents of the areas where this small-seeded plant are found discovered that it can be
used for food. Due to this they started to cultivate it. The municipality even have the
Budbod Kabog Festival.

LECHON DE CEBU

You’ve never been to Cebu if you haven’t tried lechon. This is one of the most
popular food delicacies in Cebu. You can also find this roasted pig dish in other parts
of the country. But what sets Lechon de Cebu apart from others is its distinct flavour
attributed to the stuffed spices like tanglad (lemon grass), garlic, onions, and black
pepper. If you’re wondering what to eat in Cebu, lechon should be on top of your list.
 DANGGIT

Danggit is just dried fish that can be fried or grilled. It has a very strong smell
and salty taste, so dipping it in vinegar before eating is highly recommended.

NGOHIONG

This is like a version of lumpia or spring roll, except that it uses a five-spice
powder seasoning which typically includes cloves, cinnamon, fennel seeds, star anise,
and Sichuan pepper. What makes Cebu ngohiong special is the spicy, sweet and sour
sauce, which also utilises the five-spice powder.
TOURIST SPOTS
Planning to go to Cebu, and wondering what Cebu tourist spots you should
visit? Surely, Cebu has many beautiful sites. And, you would want to go to all, or
choose from the BEST Cebu tourist attractions guide. Find out what and where these
places are.

SIRAO FLOWER GARDEN

Heading to the more elevated spot is in the Busay area which is the Sirao
Flower Garden. Going there is like experiencing the Netherlands, thus this tourist
attraction is commonly called, “The Little Amsterdam”.

The array of celosia (or ‘Burlas’ by locals) flowers in flaring red, purple,
yellow, orange makes it Amsterdam-ish. The put-up windmill and the cool wind
complement the scenic view. Hence, this gives the guests the unique, touristy feel.
 10,000 ROSES OF CEBU

Moving to the nearby island of Mactan, you can visit the 10,000 Roses of Cebu. This
magnificent spot, which is in Day-as Barangay Rd, Cordova, Cebu, has gone viral on
social media. 10,000 artificial LED-powered roses surround this certain Roses Café &
More.

Most guests prefer to go there during dusk to see the beautiful sunset while the
roses lit up at night. Moreover, the owner of the café, who is also an interior designer,
intends to create a romantic ambiance for couples.

The café offers sumptuous food which you can savor while enjoying the
wonderful mood with your lover.
 OSMEÑA PEAK

Going south, you could climb the Osmeña Peak of Cebu in Mantalongon,
Dalaguete (pronounced “Dalaget”). Standing at 1,013 meters above sea level, Osmeña
Peak is the highest point in the entire island. Lime stones that have sharp protruding
peaks which are perfect for taking pictures make up these hills.

The peak is part of the Mantalongon mountain range that stretches as far as the
municipality of Badian. It is considered a twin to Bohol’s Chocolate Hills.

Further, the main activities here are hiking and camping. Most hikers prefer two
hiking trails. The first one begins in Badian, passing by Kawasan Falls.

On the other hand, the other one is in the town of Dumanjug, which culminates
in Brgy Liong. In addition, when you trek going to the top of the mountain, don’t
forget to bring your water, it will help you re-hydrate.
 KAWASAN FALLS

Still in the south of Cebu is the breathtaking Kawasan Falls in Badian

municipality. Some hikers from Osmena Peak traverse to Kawasan Falls after
camping, but you can just go directly to Kawasan via Barili.

Kawasan Falls is a three-stage cascade of clear turquoise water from mountain

springs of Mantalongon mountain range. The waterfalls is a pearl of the Philippines.
One of the most popular tourist spots in Cebu south is Kawasan Canyoneering.

The canyoneering adventure starts at Canlaob river downstream going to

Kawasan falls. Local accredited guides accompany all tourists and facilitate the
activities such as walking, jumping, swimming, climbing and abseiling through the
streams. Most of all, when you do canyoneering, be prepared to be thrilled.
 Oslob Whale Sharks

On the other side of the island is where you can experience swimming with the
Oslob Whale Sharks, locally known as the “Tuki”.

Oslob Municipality is known for old churches and beautiful beaches but
became more popular because of the gentle giants – the Whale Sharks.

Local fishermen would interact with the whale sharks by feeding them…until
large number of tourists began to arrive in Oslob to see the whale sharks being fed. As
a result, these tourists’ snorkel or dive with the whale sharks.

Oslob Whale Shark watching is one of the tops in the bucket lists of tourists
who visit Cebu because of the rare experience. Most noteworthy, whenever you have
a close encounter with the Whale Sharks, it is not allowed to touch them.
 MAGELLAN’S CROSS

King of Spain Charles 1 chose navigator Ferdinand Magellan to look for the
“Spice Islands”. In doing so, Magellan was able to cross the globe and eventually
landed in the Philippines in 1521. Specifically, he made his step in Cebu on March 15,
1521.
 Magellan presented Christianity to Cebuanos, and most of them embraced the
religion. In this site is where Magellan planted the Cross (which symbolizes
Christianity) on April 21, 1521. An encasement protects the original Magellan’s cross.

RELIGION
The majority of Cebuanos are Roman Catholic, with many in rural areas
synchonizing Catholicism with indigenous Anitism, maintaining beliefs and rituals
around saints as avatars for older diwata. A minority of Cebuanos (specifically those
in Mindanao) are Muslim, or in mixed Chinese-Cebuano families, incorporate
Catholic beliefs with aspects of Buddhism or Taoism.

Among the island's notable festivities are the Sinulog festival, which is a
mixture of Christian and native cultural elements, celebrated annually every third
week of January.

RELIGIOUS PRACTICES
Basically, the festival is done by a dance ritual, in which it tells the story of the
Filipino people's pagan past and their acceptance of Christianity. The word “Sinulog”
means “graceful dance”, wherein it all started in 1980 with a simple dance that
represents the “sulog” (or current) of a river in Cebu.

DANCES, RITUAL AND MUSIC

DANCES, RITUAL AND MUSI

Sinulog
Sinug (Sinulog) Traditional Ritual Dance, this post shall dig in deep as to the
cultural roots of this Cebuano Tradition. This celebration of dance and prayer to the
Santo Niño with the Traditional way of the SINUG or SINULOG has been celebrated
by across generations by a close-knit family who are "KEEPERS OF THE SINULOG
DANCE" and which has been danced for the Gorordo family for generations. The
Gorordo Family is one of the prominent families in Cebu since the Spanish Era in the
Philippines and who were the owners of the CASA GORORDO which has now been
turned into a museum.

The sinug dance has 2 basic steps. the natural and the kinampilan. The natural
step is the popularly known two steps forward, one step backward while the
kinampilan has one step right foot forward and one step backward, while the left foot
stays in place.

The song prayer "paso Alang sa Pagsaludo sa Señor" (Walk to Honor the
Señor) starts the Sinug ritual and ends with the song "Panamilit" (Farewell). Here's a
clip video I took when I observed and immersed myself in this ritual.

EXISTING PROBLEMS
Cebu is now drowning from traffic congestion and garbage that even if
collected are not sent to what can be acceptably called a sanitary landfill. Many
related problems exist too, like the noise and air and water pollution as Cebu becomes
overcrowded with people and cars and other things that come with the rapid
urbanization of Metro Cebu.
Problems like these when not foreseen or resolved earlier will become more costly to
solve later.
However, instead of sitting down together to see the best way of resolving our
problems now, our leaders are at loggerheads as to how we solve them.
To resolve the traffic gridlock, for example, one group favor the least costly
method first, one that they feel is not disruptive to our day-to-day activities.
 REFLECTION AND REACTION

While watching this documentary I really shocked about the life Indigenous
people like Agta. Despite of poor life they strive hard to hunt for food, even thought
they live in nomadic type and their own way of living. They have a principle in
helping each other.
 Even lock of road, education, money and food they are obliged to help each
other because their principle are no Agtas left behind. Also, I realize they are not
giving an attention by the government, there are small community of Indigenous
People who has grasp in poverty but has build a strong unity for their community.