Faith Healers: Healers such as Albolaryo (herbal healers) and Hilot (traditional massage therapists) are still practiced in our community because they have become an essential part of our cultural heritage. These traditional healing methods have been passed down through generations, preserving the wisdom and practices of our ancestors.

Mythical Creatures: In our barrio, belief in mystical creatures remains strong. Elders recount chilling encounters with the aswang, manananggal, kapre, and mangkukulam, influencing traditions and daily life.

Kulam: Most of the residents of Cordon, particularly in our barrio, still believe in witchcraft. Those who practice this ritual are called Mangkukulam, and according to my grandmother, mangkukulam are also healers or albularyo, but with malicious intentions, such as causing illness or even death.

Wake up before the funeral procession passes: In our barrio, it is a common practice and belief to wake up before the funeral procession passes. Elders explain that doing so prevents any misfortune or lingering spirits from entering the home as the procession moves through.

Do not sweep at night: According to my grandmother, sweeping at night is believed to drive away good fortune and bring bad luck.

Pagmamano

Elders in our community appreciate and uphold this tradition, seeing it as a sign of good manners and humility. Children are taught from a young age to practice pagmamano.

Atang/Alay

In our barrio, atang is a deeply rooted tradition that serves as an offering to spirits, ancestors, or unseen forces. It is usually performed to seek protection, express gratitude, or ask for guidance. Families prepare food, placing it on a small altar or a specific area in the home, believing that the spirits will partake in the essence of the offerings.

Bayanihan

In our barrio, bayanihan is more than just communal cooperation it’s a way of life. Young members are expected to volunteer during events, ensuring that celebrations and gatherings run smoothly. When a family member is in need, every family head of that member contributes assistance, whether financial or labor, reinforcing a strong support system. Weddings also showcase this tradition, where each household offers money or services to help the couple’s family. This unique form of bayanihan strengthens unity, ensuring that no one faces hardships alone and that milestones are celebrated by the whole community.

Mannalon Festival

The Mannalon Festival in Cordon, Isabela is a thanksgiving celebration that honors farmers and their contributions to the community. It is held every July and features various activities that highlight the importance of agriculture.

One of the main events is the Street Dance Showdown, where performers showcase dances that depict the history and traditions of farming. The festival also includes parades, cultural performances, and competitions that bring the community together in celebration. Additionally, there are medical missions providing free check-ups and eyeglasses to residents.

Patron Saint's Feast Day

The Sto. Niño de Praga Parish in Cordon, Isabela celebrates its Feast Day on the 3rd Sunday of January. This special occasion is marked by religious ceremonies, processions, and community gatherings to honor the patron, Sto. Niño de Praga.

During the feast, devotees participate in novena prayers, Holy Masses, and a grand procession, where the image of Sto. Niño is carried through the streets as a sign of faith and devotion.

Black Rosary

Every October, we hold the tradition of padasal in our barrio, where each house is visited for prayers during the Black Rosary devotion. It's a meaningful practice that brings neighbors together, fostering unity and deepening our faith as a community.

The month of October, being the Month of the Holy Rosary, makes this tradition even more special. I feel a sense of peace and gratitude during these moments, as the prayers resonate throughout our barrio, blessing every family and home.

Thanksgiving Festival In every Barangay

Every April, we celebrate Sagibu, a Thanksgiving Festival that coincides with the harvesting of palay. It is a cherished tradition in our community, where we come together to express gratitude for the bountiful harvest and honor the dedication of our farmers.

All souls Day

In Cordon, Isabela, our All Souls' Day tradition continues as we visit the graves of our departed loved ones after preparing kakanin. It’s a solemn and heartfelt moment where families gather at the cemetery, bringing candles, flowers, and sometimes the kakanin we’ve prepared as offerings.

We light the candles and say prayers, asking for the eternal peace of the souls of our departed.

Passion

In our barrio, the elders perform the "pasyon" during Holy Week, where they sing old songs specifically for the "pasyon." They used to do this by the side of the road, in a small house made from coconut leaves. However, due to modernization, they now perform it inside the house of the head of the "pasyon."

New Year

In our barrio, New Year celebrations are vibrant and joyful! Families usually gather together to prepare a feast, with traditional dishes like "lechon," "pancit," and "bibingka" taking center stage. The children enjoy lighting fireworks or "pailaw," while the elders share stories and laughter over shared meals. At midnight, the air fills with the sound of firecrackers and the sight of colorful lights to welcome the New Year with a bang.