There are rugged hills to climb, unique flavors to devour, history to review, picturesque scenery to capture, people to appreciate; Kalinga is waving.
Before the emergence of modernized civilization, headhunting was once regarded as a noble pursuit and symbolized bravery for the natives. Hence, headhunters became the identity interlinked with the natives of this landlocked province. It was then a warrior society that accorded tattoos as status symbols awarded to warriors which men respected and as these warriors earned tattoos, women's admiration was earned as well. But it’s not all violence and tribal wars that prevail most in this pristine land, there’s more than meets the eye!
The province's name evokes a very cultural mindset as it stimulates curiosity about this untouched gem. Aside from waging violence, one might be thinking of Apo Whang-Od of the Butbut tribe in the town of Buscalan. Whang-Od is a traditional tribal tattoo artist that locals refer to as ‘the last mambabatok.’ For more than 80 years, Whang-Od has been inking headhunters from her tribe long before she started inking tourists. Known for having the prestigious Dangal ng Haraya Award, Whang-Od became one of the major representations of the province, and arguably even the face of the Cordilleras. At the same time, one might even be acquainted with the tragic story of Lumnay and Awiyao written by one of the pillars of Contemporary Philippine Literature, Amador Daguio. Daguio was a native of Lubuagan, ergo; his stories are heavily influenced by local color and Kalinga customs and norms.
One fact that distinguishes them; first-timers might be in awe when they see peculiar-shaped tombs of
their
deceased family members. Accordingly, they
observe year-long mourning, which restrains the deceased's closest relatives from eating certain kinds
of
food. Then, widows and widowers must not marry within this period. At the end of mourning, a feast is
prepared with wine, music, and Kolias or song. Culture has set almost everything for natives. Another
thing
to note is the notable Kalinga house; the foruy in Bangad, Tinglayan is a house elevated by posts.
Unlike
modern houses today, their shape can either be square or rectangular. Inside it is a single room and
split-bamboo flooring which can be rolled up.
(Credits to the owner of the photo,
jimreybiosa@yahoo.com)
More than its quaint culture and history, Kalinga offers bewitching scenes that capture nature at its best. Sungang Viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the mountains and villages of Tinglayan, Tanudan, Tabuk, and Lubuagan. You will also love to mark your next visit to various natural resorts around the province. This excursion has a freshwater pool from the mountains and your home atop the mountains. These places are few among their awaiting wonders. Kalinga is home to a rich and unique culture. Their history is proof of how well-established this province is. Genuine landscapes can lift moods. Kalinga is both a land of legend and mystery. It has more to tell once you start a journey in the place just waiting to be unraveled. Its promise is worth remembering and sharing.
31 October 2021