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Kalinga is a province located in the northern region of the Philippines. This rugged terrain is known for its pristine beauty and rich cultural heritage that has been passed down from generation to generation. The province is home to the Kalinga people, an indigenous tribe known for their bravery, artistry, and unique way of life.
SOURCE: Bandioan Hernando Jhonethan
The Kalinga people have a long and fascinating history. They are believed to have migrated to the Cordillera region of the Philippines more than 2,000 years ago. They have managed to preserve their way of life despite the influx of modernization and colonialism in the country.
One of the unique features of the Kalinga culture is their practice of headhunting, which was once a common tradition in the region. But that was a long time ago village elders are now successful without headhunting.
SOURCE: Adam Koziol
Kalinga culture is known for its intricate body art, traditional clothing, and music. The people of Kalinga are famous for their intricate tattoos, which are considered a sign of bravery and status. These tattoos are often found on the arms, legs, chest, and face, and are believed to have magical powers that protect the wearer.
SOURCE: Adam Koziol
Whang-Od is the last practicing traditional tattooist in the whole region © Adam Koziol
Seen as a rite of passage since as early as the 16th century, the act of being tattooed is a distinctive feature of the Kalinga people, despite it has fallen out of favour with the current young generations. The designs are symbolic of strength and power.
For the men of the tribe, tattoos represent courage and the stages of being a Kalinga warrior
For women, they symbolise maturity, fertility and beauty.
The tattoo tools themselves are made from a instrument constructed in bamboo and razor sharp lemon thorns.
The design is marked onto the skin using long strips of straight grass, dipped in simple a mixture of charcoal and water.
Then thorn tip is submerged in the charcoal solution before rigorously hand tapping the piercing point into the design on the skin.
Kalinga Traditional Clothing of Men
The traditional clothing of Kalinga men includes:
bahag - a loincloth made from woven fabric or animal hide
turban or headscarf
sleeveless vest or jacket, often embroidered with intricate patterns and designs.
The vest is called wanes or bandi, and is worn over a plain white undershirt.
The wanes are often made from handwoven cotton or abel cloth, a locally produced fabric.
Kalinga Traditional Clothing of Women
The traditional clothing of Kalinga women is characterized by its bright colors and intricate designs.
long-sleeved blouse called a bado, which is often embroidered with intricate designs and patterns.
The blouse is worn over a skirt called a tapis, which is also brightly colored and adorned with embroidery or beadwork.
Women also wear a headscarf called a sanggot, which is often decorated with beads or tassels.
Apo Whang Od
Apo Whang-Od is a legendary tattoo artist from the Kalinga province of the Philippines. She is known for her traditional tattooing skills and has gained worldwide recognition for her artistry and contribution to the preservation of Kalinga culture.
Apo Whang-Od’s legacy goes beyond her artistry. She has inspired a renewed interest in Kalinga culture and has helped to preserve the unique customs and traditions of her people. Her work has also contributed to the development of the local economy and has helped to bring attention to the Kalinga province.
Apo Whang-Od is a true icon of Kalinga culture and a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of her people
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