The Ifugao belief system traditionally included the veneration of diwata, spirits associated with nature. These diwata were believed to reside in mountains, rivers, and other natural features. Offerings and rituals were performed to appease them and secure their blessings for bountiful harvests and well-being.
While the dominance of Christianity has lessened diwata worship, their significance remains embedded in Ifugao cultural identity and environmental consciousness.
The Ifugao believe in a complex spiritual world.
The Ancestral Spirits
Hold a significant place. They are seen as protectors and guides, consulted through rituals and offerings for blessings and intervention.
At the core of Ifugao spirituality lie the roles of the "Baki" and "Mumbaki". These figures serve as spiritual leaders and practitioners responsible for conducting vital ceremonies within the community. Acting as intermediaries between the people and the spiritual realm, the Baki fulfills a pivotal role by offering prayers and making sacrifices to maintain harmony and equilibrium. On the other hand, the Mumbaki holds significant importance in healing rituals, invoking ancestral spirits to facilitate the recovery of the ill. Together, they play integral roles in upholding the spiritual beliefs and practices that are deeply ingrained in Ifugao culture
Uyagan - Following a bountiful harvest, the Ifugao people celebrate "uyagan" – a thanksgiving ritual to express gratitude to the diwata for their blessings. Uyagan festivities often involve communal meals, music, dance, and offerings to show appreciation for the diwata's role in ensuring a successful harvest.