Ifugao

Capital - Lagawe

In Lagawe, Ifugao, the rise of local identity is deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage and
strong community bonds. Through traditional practices, such as the Hudhud chants and the
performance of rituals, residents uphold their unique identity and connection to their ancestral
land. Additionally, the promotion of indigenous crafts, like weaving and wood carving, serves as
a means of preserving and celebrating their heritage. As Lagawe embraces modernization,
efforts to protect and promote its local identity are vital in ensuring the preservation of its distinct
cultural heritage for future generations.

Natural Heritage in the Locality

Ibulao River

Ibulao river is one of the places on interest in Kiangan,Ifugao. According to a popular folklore,
the river is the origin of the Ifugaos. It was the prolific valley of Kay-yang (the origin of Kiangan)
along the river where the god Wigan sent his children Kabbigat and Bugan to populate the
earth. The Ibulao River also serves as boundary of Kiangan and Lagawe. It is also one of the
main suppliers of water to the Magat Dam.

Bintakan Cave

It is located at the rocky slope of Ibulao which is about 2 kilometers from the provincial capitol.
The mouth of the cave is overlooking the Ibulao river. It is a three-room cave with dripping water
that forms stalactites and stalagmites of different beautiful shapes. It can be reached by tricycle
ride and 20-minute ascent to the mouth of the cave.

Nah Toban Cave in Barangay Boliwong

Nah Toban Cave, nestled in Lagawe, Ifugao, offers an enchanting adventure with its intricate
limestone formations and mysterious depths. Steeped in local folklore and history, it captivates
visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty and cultural significance, making it a must-visit destination
for explorers seeking to unravel its secrets.

Dances/Festivals

1. Imbayah Festival: This festival is a significant celebration in Ifugao culture, featuring

traditional dances, rituals, and ceremonies. It honors the rice harvest and pays homage to
ancestors.

2. Hudhud Chants: The Hudhud chants are UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
These epic chants are performed during special occasions, recounting Ifugao mythology,
traditions, and history.
3. Gotad ad Kiangan: While not directly in Lagawe, neighboring Kiangan hosts the Gotad ad
Kiangan festival, which showcases Ifugao dances, rituals, and cultural exhibits.

Songs/Dances

1. Hudhud Chants: These epic chants are performed during various ceremonies and rituals.
They recount Ifugao mythology, history, and traditions, often accompanied by rhythmic beats
from gongs and bamboo percussion instruments

2. Dances with Gong Music: Traditional dances like the Banga and the Tinikling are
accompanied by lively gong music, creating a rhythmic and festive atmosphere.

3. Nose Flute Music: The nose flute, called "tongali," produces haunting melodies that are often
played during social gatherings, rituals, and courtship rituals.

Rituals/Ceremonies

1. Baki: A traditional ritual performed to seek blessings and guidance from ancestral spirits for
important events such as planting, harvesting, weddings, and healing ceremonies.

2. Pag-anito: Ancestor worship ceremony where offerings are made to honor departed family
members and seek their protection and guidance.

3. Panag-aapoy: Rituals involving fire-making ceremonies, symbolizing purification and the

renewal of communal ties.
4. Cañao: A grand feast and ritual celebration marking significant life events such as births,
weddings, and funerals. It involves traditional dances, chants, and offerings to appease spirits
and ensure harmony within the community.

Laguage/Poetry

In Lagawe, Ifugao, the primary language spoken is Ifugao, which belongs to the
Malayo-Polynesian branch of the Austronesian language family. Traditional Ifugao poetry often
takes the form of oral literature, including epic chants like the famous Hudhud, which narrate the
community's history, myths, and cultural values. Additionally, Ifugao literature encompasses oral
traditions passed down through generations, including folk tales, legends, and proverbs that
reflect the people's worldview and wisdom. While written documents may not be as prevalent,
efforts to preserve and document Ifugao culture and heritage are ongoing through various
mediums such as research papers, publications, and educational materials.

Local cuisine

1. Pinikpikan: A hearty chicken soup made by pounding the chicken with a stick before cooking.
It's flavored with ginger, onions, and other local herbs, giving it a unique taste.

2. Inasin: Fermented fish or meat, typically served as a side dish or used as a flavoring agent in
various dishes.
3. Patupat: Sweet rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves and boiled until tender. They are often
served as snacks or desserts, especially during festivals and special occasions.

4. Et-eh: A traditional Ifugao dish made from roasted or grilled pork or chicken, seasoned with
local spices and served with rice or root crops.

Beliefs/Healing arts

1. Anito Worship: Ancestral spirits, or "anito," play a significant role in Ifugao spirituality. Rituals
and offerings are made to these spirits to seek protection, guidance, and blessings for various
endeavors.

2. Mumbaki: Traditional healers, known as "mumbaki," hold specialized knowledge of herbal

medicine, rituals, and chants to cure illnesses and restore balance to the community.

3. Alim and Hudhud Epics: These epic chants recount Ifugao mythology, history, and cultural
values. They are performed during ceremonies and rituals, transmitting knowledge and wisdom
through oral tradition.

4. Secret Knowledge of Rituals: Certain rituals and ceremonies, such as those related to
agricultural practices, marriage, and childbirth, may involve secret knowledge passed down
within specific families or communities, safeguarding their cultural heritage and traditions.

distinguish personalities

1. Francisco Balagtas: A renowned Ifugao leader and advocate for indigenous rights and
cultural preservation.

2. Mateo Carino: A respected Ifugao leader who played a key role in protecting Ifugao lands and
heritage during the American colonial period.

3. Eulogio Balajadia: A prominent Ifugao artist known for his intricate woodcarvings and
contributions to the preservation of traditional Ifugao craftsmanship.

4. Maria Ongay: An influential Ifugao educator and community leader who championed
education and cultural awareness among the youth.

Local history

Lagawe, Ifugao, has a rich history dating back centuries. It was traditionally inhabited by the
Ifugao people, known for their sophisticated rice terraces and cultural heritage. During the
Spanish colonial period, it became a center of resistance against colonial rule. Today, Lagawe
remains a vibrant hub of Ifugao culture, preserving its traditions while embracing modernization.

building heritage
1. Ifugao Houses: Traditional Ifugao houses, known as "bahay kubo," feature steep thatched
roofs and elevated floors supported by wooden stilts. These houses are designed to withstand
the region's rugged terrain and inclement weather.

2. Rice Granaries: Elevated rice granaries, called "bale," are built to store harvested rice and
protect it from pests and moisture. These structures showcase the intricate craftsmanship of the
Ifugao people and are essential for preserving their agricultural livelihood.

3. Community Centers: Ifugao communities often have communal gathering spaces, known as
"dap-ay," where important meetings, ceremonies, and cultural events take place. These
structures serve as focal points for community cohesion and cultural exchange.

Movable heritage

1. Ifugao Wood Carvings: Intricately carved wooden sculptures and artifacts, such as bululs
(ancestral rice god figurines), hagabi (ceremonial bench), and other decorative items, showcase
the skilled craftsmanship and cultural symbolism of the Ifugao people.

2. Indigenous Textiles: Handwoven textiles, such as the "tapis" (wrap skirt) and "inabel" (woven
blankets), feature intricate designs and patterns that represent Ifugao cultural motifs and
traditions. These textiles are often used in ceremonies, rituals, and everyday attire.
3. Ritual Implements: Ceremonial objects used in traditional rituals and ceremonies, such as
gongs, nose flutes, ritual knives, and other sacred items, hold spiritual significance and are
passed down through generations as heirlooms.

4. Traditional Musical Instruments: Instruments like gongs, bamboo percussion, and nose flutes
are integral to Ifugao music and cultural performances, showcasing the community's musical
heritage and artistic expression.

Local technology

1. Rice Terracing: The Ifugao people are known for their intricate rice terraces, a sophisticated
agricultural technology developed over centuries to maximize arable land in mountainous
terrain.

2. Irrigation Systems: Traditional irrigation techniques, such as the use of stone-walled canals
and diversion dikes, are employed to channel water from mountain springs and rivers to irrigate
the rice terraces.

3. Handicrafts: Ifugao artisans utilize traditional techniques and locally sourced materials to
create handicrafts such as woven textiles, wood carvings, and pottery, showcasing their skill and
creativity.

4. Traditional Medicine: Knowledge of herbal remedies and healing practices passed down
through generations forms the basis of Ifugao traditional medicine, utilizing indigenous plants
and natural ingredients for healthcare.