Week 1-2: Introduction to Philippine Indigenous Crafts
The first two weeks of this course will serve as a foundational study of Philippine
indigenous crafts. This period aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of
what indigenous crafts are, why they are important in Filipino culture, and how they vary
among different indigenous groups in the country.
I. Definition and Scope of Indigenous Crafts
A. Definition of Indigenous Crafts
Indigenous crafts refer to traditional, handmade objects created by ethnolinguistic
communities across the Philippines. These crafts are typically made using locally sourced
natural materials and are produced through techniques that have been passed down
through generations.
B. Characteristics of Indigenous Crafts
1. Handcrafted – Indigenous crafts are usually made by hand, preserving the
traditional skills of artisans.
2. Natural Materials – Materials such as wood, bamboo, abaca, rattan, clay, shells,
and fibers are used.
3. Symbolic Motifs – Designs often carry deep cultural meanings, including ancestral
beliefs, nature-inspired motifs, and social status indicators.
4. Functionality & Spirituality – Indigenous crafts serve both practical and
ceremonial purposes.
C. Major Types of Indigenous Crafts in the Philippines
Indigenous
Craft Type Description Examples
Groups
Handwoven fabrics with T’nalak, Abel Iloko,
Textiles and T’boli, Ilocano,
intricate patterns and Piña Cloth, Yakan
Weaving Yakan, Mandaya
symbolic meanings Weaves
Basketry & Mat Weaving of baskets, bags, Banig (mats), Baskets, Tagbanwa,
Weaving and mats from natural fibers Bayong Bags Badjao, Ivatan
Indigenous
Craft Type Description Examples
Groups
Clay-based craft, often for
Pottery and Manunggul Jar, Burnay Ifugao, Kalinga,
storage, cooking, and ritual
Ceramics Jars Ilocano
use
Wooden sculptures,
Woodcarving & Bulul (rice guardian),
furniture, and house Ifugao, Maranao
Sculpting Okir designs
decorations
Brass gongs, T’boli
Metalwork & Gold and brass accessories, Maranao, T’boli,
brassworks,
Jewelry decorative items B’laan
Goldsmithing
II. Importance of Indigenous Crafts in Philippine Culture and Identity
Indigenous crafts are not just functional objects; they are deeply embedded in Filipino
cultural heritage, economic systems, and spiritual traditions.
A. Cultural Significance
1. Expression of Identity
o Each indigenous group has its own unique art style that distinguishes them
from others.
o Example: The T’nalak textile of the T’boli represents dreams and is
considered sacred.
2. Connection to Ancestry and Spirituality
o Many indigenous crafts are believed to have spiritual power or blessings from
ancestors.
o Example: The Bulul (Ifugao wooden rice god) is used to guard rice fields and
is honored in rituals.
3. Role in Traditional Ceremonies
o Indigenous crafts are often used in weddings, rituals, and burial practices.
o Example: The Manunggul Jar, a burial jar from Palawan, signifies a belief in
the afterlife.
B. Economic and Social Relevance
1. Livelihood and Economic Development
o Indigenous crafts provide sustainable income for artisans and their families.
o The One Town, One Product (OTOP) program supports local craft
industries.
2. Tourism and Cultural Promotion
o Handicrafts attract tourists and cultural enthusiasts.
o Example: The famous Burnay pottery of Vigan is a thriving industry that
preserves heritage.
C. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Craftsmanship
1. Use of Natural and Recyclable Materials
o Indigenous crafts make use of bamboo, rattan, coconut shells, abaca, and
other plant-based materials.
o These materials are biodegradable and do not harm the environment.
2. Traditional Knowledge and Sustainable Practices
o Indigenous communities practice sustainable harvesting, ensuring that
materials are renewable and do not lead to deforestation.
III. Overview of Indigenous Groups and Their Craft Traditions
A. Indigenous Groups in Luzon and Their Crafts
Ethnic Region Craft Tradition Description
Group
Ifugao Cordillera Woodcarving Famous for the Bulul (rice god
statue)
Kalinga Cordillera Tattoo Art, Weaving Tattooing (batok) is a sacred
tradition among warriors
Ilocano Ilocos Abel Weaving Abel Iloko is known for its geometric
Region patterns
Mangyan Mindoro Basketry, Jewelry Nito and rattan baskets, bead
accessories
Tagbanwa Palawan Mat Weaving, Creates carved wooden plates and
Woodcraft bamboo items
B. Indigenous Groups in Visayas and Their Crafts
Ethnic Region Craft Tradition Description
Group
Ati Panay Handwoven Produces woven hats, baskets, and
accessories bamboo crafts
Aklanon Aklan Piña Weaving Famous for Piña fabric (pineapple
fiber cloth)
Waray Samar & Banig Mat Weaving Mats made from Tikog grass with
Leyte colorful patterns
C. Indigenous Groups in Mindanao and Their Crafts
Ethnic Region Craft Tradition Description
Group
T’boli South T’nalak Weaving Dream-inspired abaca fabric
Cotabato
Maranao Lanao del Sur Okir Intricate floral and geometric wood
Woodcarving designs
Yakan Basilan Colorful Traditional handwoven cloth with
Weaving bright colors
