In May 2023, amid the harvest season, Batad village witnessed a significant Pahang ritual celebration. Held at the traditional baluy house of the Mannod family in Sitio Balihong, locals gathered to bestow blessings upon the home. Visitors from Manila, Cebu, and New York joined in, expressing gratitude for the Batad Kadangyan Ethnic Lodges Project. This initiative has been instrumental in aiding families in the restoration of their ancestral homes and the establishment of sustainable homestays, thus contributing significantly to the preservation of the cultural heritage of the UNESCO-designated landscape.
Led by two mumba'ih shamans and accompanied by elders, the ceremony featured ancient prayers and dances honoring tradition. Post-ritual, neighbors convened to partake in feasting and revelry, fostering bonds and exemplifying the enduring unity of Ifugao communities. These rituals remain integral in nurturing the social fabric of Ifugao society, even in contemporary times.
iipA 2023 finalists
Presenting the Top 10 Shortlisted Finalists selected from over 200+ photo entries submitted by 50 participating photographers. Who will emerge as the IIPA 2023 Grand Prize Winner?
