ABOUT THE PROJECT

The Digital Production and Popularization of Ibanag Cantos is a heritage preservation initiative led by Cagayan State University–Carig Campus, with support from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) under its Competitive Grants Program. The project seeks to safeguard and revitalize the Ibanag Canto (chants), a traditional form of oral literature and chanting deeply rooted in the cultural identity of the Ibanag and Itawit people of Cagayan Valley.

The Cantos, performed by elders known as Minakkantorits, carries stories of faith, community, and history. It has long been a vital expression of Ibanag and Itawit values, but modernization, language shift, and the decline of traditional performers have placed this practice at risk. This project responds to those challenges by combining digital archiving, media popularization, and cultural education.

This initiative is a collaborative effort between the College of Human Kinetics (CHK) and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHaSS) of CSU Carig Campus. Faculty members from both colleges contribute their expertise in cultural education, music, development communication, and media production, ensuring that the project blends academic rigor with community engagement. 

Through high‑quality recordings, structured metadata, and the creation of a digital repository, the project ensures that the cantos—such as Afu Dios Ama, Leccio, Acquimallo, and Gozos ni San Roque—are preserved for future generations. At the same time, outreach activities, training sessions, and a media campaign amplify their relevance in contemporary life, bridging tradition and technology.

This initiative strengthens cultural continuity, empowers communities, and safeguards Philippine intangible heritage through the documentation, teaching, and promotion of the Ibanag Kantorit.

This G‑Site is a living document. It begins with the documentation and recording of selected Ibanag chants from Peñablanca — Acquimallo, Afu Dios Ama, Leccio and Gozos ni San Roque. In the meantime, these serve as the foundation of our digital archive. As time permits and with the continued support of our community partners, additional cantos will be added to enrich the collection. This evolving archive reflects both the continuity of Ibanag tradition and our shared commitment to cultural preservation.