Apo Whang-Od

Born as Maria Oggay, Apo Whang-od is considered and recognized as the ‘last’ and oldest traditional Kalinga Artist from Tinglayan, Buscalan.

well-known for hand-tapped tattoos using charcoal and water, using bamboo sticks from the Butbut tribes’ practices. (exposed and engaged since 15 years)
International recognition brought attention to Whang-od’s tribe and further made her a significant figure in the Philippine’s preservation of traditional culture and artistry
In their tradition, “whatok” is the used local term for their tattoos; often marking a symbol indicating their religious and political notions, honoring their ancestors, and serving as protection from evil spirits through the belief that such tattoos bring them strength and courage
International recognition brought attention to Whang-od’s tribe and further made her a significant figure in the Philippine’s preservation of traditional culture and artistry through her widespread influence in modern and contemporary artistic notions
Although not yet officially named as a National Living Treasure, Apo Whang-od is a nominee for the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) award, but was the first traditional artist to receive the Dangal ng Haraya Award for Intangible Cultural Heritage from the NCCA back in 2018; it goes to show that her conservation efforts for ancient Filipino art has become a breaking point in preserving cultural and native art forms in the country.

Indigenous People (IP) Group: Butbut Tribe (Kalinga)

Culture & Tradition

Apo Whang-Od belongs to the Butbut tribe of the Kalinga indigenous people in the Cordillera region of the Philippines, whose culture is deeply rooted in tradition and symbolism. The Butbut practice batok, a traditional tattooing art that serves as a rite of passage and a marker of social status, bravery, and beauty within the community. Tattoos are applied using hand-tapping techniques with bamboo sticks and thorn needles, and their designs are inspired by nature, such as animals, plants, and geometric patterns, each carrying specific meanings. Beyond tattooing, the Butbut uphold rituals tied to ancestral worship, community solidarity, and respect for nature, reflecting their connection to the land and their ancestors. Apo Whang-Od’s role as a mambabatok is crucial in preserving these traditions, passing on not only the tattooing skills but also the cultural stories, values, and identity of the Butbut people to future generations.

Key Concerns:

Urbanization & Rural Life

The Butbut tribe is experiencing threats in terms of land and territory due to dam projects such as the Chico River Dam, which the government would like to take place in Kalinga. Part of the bigger picture, this would cause displacement and loss of ancestral land of the natives, which is crucial for preservation of their livelihood and identity. With the Butbut being primarily an agricultural tribe, it also lacks support and funding from the government to produce rice. Furthermore, due to their remote location, they lack access to adequate educational and healthcare facilities.

Carlos "Botong" V. Francisco

In launching the modern art movement with Edades and Ocampo, Carlos Francisco revolutionized the fine arts landscape of the Philippines through launching the modern art movement with Victorio Edades and Hernando Ocampo. He was recognized for his large-scale mural paintings style depicting subjects such as Filipino communal life, historic past, and representation of Filipino customs and traditions that garnered him the National Artist Award in 1973.

Pre-World War II

was a member of the Thirteen Moderns headed by Victorio Edades in introducing modern art to the country, while focusing on incorporating traditional Filipino themes into his art.

Post-World War II

pioneered modernism in Philippine arts in deviating from Fernando Amorsolo’s romantic themes in relating to the country's historical and cultural experiences (“History of Manila”, “Filipino Struggles Through History”, “First Mass at Limasawa”)

Benedicto Cabrera

Known for realism, abstract, and many more styles, Benedicto Cabrera’s art particularly focuses on not only preserving the Filipino culture and identity, but through criticizing societal issues and Philippine History.

Spanish Colonial Period

The Larawan series wherein Benedicto Cabrera created a series of work showing Filipino social realities during the Spanish Colonial period such as with their clothing, accessories, location, and even architecture in the background. The painting depicts Filipino children wearing baro’t saya and Katipunero clothes. Another is with the painting of “An Ode to the Flag” wherein he gave tribute to Philippine heroes and nationalism through the representation of the flag and the likes of Andres Bonifacio and anonymous people.

Post-World War II

Benedicto Cabrera’s work title “Sabel” was created on 1966, post world war. During this time, poverty was prevalent as an effect of the world war. Through her image, she represents the struggles of the poor in the post ww2 which was displaced, marginalized, yet resilient. She challenges us to confront our prejudices, urging empathy over judgment for those who endure poverty and social invisibility.

Guillermo Tolentino

Hailed as the "Father of Philippine Arts" in sculpture, Guillermo Tolentino’s artwork prominently focuses on themes of revolution—Filipino resistance against colonialism; he aimed to instill a sense of pride and nationalism among viewers. His National Artist Award in 1973 sculpted his pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Philippine Sculpture.

bridging the gap between the past and the present

Spanish Colonial Period

The Bonifacio Monument looks back on to the Filipino struggles in gaining independence and commemorates the country's freedom fighters against the Spaniards

American Colonial Period

Americans during his time were using education as means to chain Filipinos (brainwashing)—thus he challenged that tactic of the Americans through the open arms in the Oblation, at University of the Philippines, as a symbolism of openly accepting knowledge and critical thinking (academic freedom)

Victorio Edades

Victorio Edades is recognized as the Father of Modern Philippine Painting for bringing modernism to the nation's art landscape in the early 20th century. He opposed the well-liked conventional style that emphasized idealized and romanticized images by illustrating more genuine and occasionally somber themes with distorted figures and earthy tones. His creations frequently mirrored the challenges and feelings of regular Filipinos, emphasizing societal truths rather than merely aesthetics.

American Colonial Period/Pre War Era (1928-1941)

returned to the Philippines in 1928 after studying in the US
broke away from classical and romantic styles dominant at the time
introduced modernist techniques such as distortion, dark palettes, rough textures
his work "The Builders" is considered as a landmark of modern art in the Philippines as it captures the struggles of the working class, mirroring societal changes

Post War/Early Post-Colonial Period (1946-1960)

recognized as the "Father of Modern Philippine Art"
awarded National Artist for Paiting in 1976
became the Dean of the U.P. School of Fine Arts in 1950

Fernando Amorsolo

Fernando Amorsolo is often regarded as one of the most important Filipino painters in the 20th century. Amorsolo’s works are widely celebrated for their idealized, romanticized depictions of rural Philippine life. He is particularly known for his mastery of light and color, especially in his portrayal of landscapes and people.

Pre-Colonial Era (Before 1521):

no direct artworks by Amorsolo since he lived centuries later.
his paintings reflect traditional Filipino customs rooted in pre-colonial

Pre-Colonial Era (Before 1521):

No direct artworks by Amorsolo since he lived centuries later.
His paintings reflect traditional Filipino customs rooted in pre-colonial culture.
Showcases rural life and indigenous Filipino values.

Post-Colonial Era (After 1898)

Painted during American colonial period and after Philippine independence.
Celebrated Filipino identity, nationalism, and culture.
Famous for portraying idyllic rural scenes and the Philippine countryside.
Known for his mastery of light, capturing the tropical sunlight.

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