APAYAO
PROVINCE
Culture, History, and Traditions of
the Cordillera North
WHERE IS APAYAO?
Location and Geography
Apayao is a province in the northern part
of the Philippines, situated in the Cordillera
Administrative Region on Luzon island.
It is known for its lush mountains, rivers,
and remote communities, making it a
unique and culturally rich area.
PEOPLE OF APAYAO
Indigenous Communities
The province is home to the Isneg (or Isnag)
people, one of the major indigenous groups of
the Cordillera. Their culture, language, and
traditions have shaped Apayao's identity.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
1565-1898 1995
Spanish Period Modern Province
Spanish colonization had Apayao became a separate
little direct impact due to province in 1995, split from
Apayao's remote location. Kalinga-Apayao.
Before 1500s 1900s
Pre-Colonial Era American Era
The Isneg people lived along Apayao was incorporated
rivers, practicing traditional into the Mountain Province
agriculture and hunting. under the Americans.
CULTURE AND IDENTITY
Isneg Heritage Modern Influences
The Isneg maintain strong ties to their While modernization has reached
ancestral land, customs, and oral Apayao, many traditions are preserved
traditions. and celebrated.
ETHNIC ATTIRE OF APAYAO
Traditional Clothing
Isneg women wear colorful, handwoven
skirts called abel, paired with beaded
accessories and embroidered blouses. Men
wear loincloths known as bahag,
sometimes with a woven belt and
headgear.
Clothing often features geometric designs
and vibrant colors that reflect nature.
ELEMENTS OF ISNEG ATTIRE
Embroidere Bahag
d Blouse (Loincloth)
Abel Skirt Blouses feature Beaded Traditional attire
striking for men, usually
A handwoven
embroidery and Accessories woven with
wraparound Necklaces,
colorful threads. symbolic
skirt, often in earrings, and patterns.
red, black, and bracelets made
white patterns. from beads and
seeds are worn.
SYMBOLISM IN ATTIRE
Cultural Meanings
Colors and patterns in Isneg weaving often
symbolize nature, family, and community.
Geometric shapes may represent
mountains, rivers, or spiritual beliefs.
Wearing traditional attire is a way to honor
ancestors and celebrate important events.
MATCH THE WORDS WITH THE PICTURES 🎯
1. Abel Skirt a) b)
2. Bahag
3. Embroidered
Blouse
c) d)
4. Beaded
Accessories
MATCH THE WORDS WITH THE PICTURES 🎯 ✅
b) c)
1. Abel Skirt 2. Bahag
d) a)
3. Embroidered 4. Beaded
Blouse Accessories
DANCES OF APAYAO
Expression Through Movement
Traditional dances are vital to Isneg
celebrations, rituals, and storytelling. Dances
often reflect daily life, courtship, and spiritual
beliefs, connecting people to their heritage.
POPULAR APAYAO
DANCES
1 Tadek
A courtship dance performed during
weddings and festivals. Dancers mimic the
movements of birds.
2 Talip
A social dance that depicts daily life and is
usually performed by groups of men and
women.
3 Say-am
A ritual dance performed to give thanks
for a bountiful harvest or to honor
ancestors.
TADEK: THE COURTSHIP DANCE
Movements and Meaning
The Tadek dance involves graceful arm
movements and rhythmic footwork.
Dancers wear traditional attire and often
use handkerchiefs or fans to enhance their
gestures. The dance symbolizes love,
respect, and the beginning of a new
partnership.
TALIP: CELEBRATING LIFE
Community and Joy
Talip is performed during community
gatherings. The dance tells stories of daily
activities like planting, fishing, or
socializing, highlighting the importance of
cooperation and unity.
SAY-AM: RITUAL DANCE
Spiritual Significance
Say-am is a thanksgiving dance, often
accompanied by chanting and music. It is
a way to connect with ancestors and seek
blessings for health and prosperity.
OTHER TRADITIONAL
DANCES OF APAYAO
1 Alay
A ceremonial dance showing gratitude for
blessings. Participants carry offerings and
move in a circular pattern.
2 Kinayog
This lively group dance showcases unity
and coordination, celebrating harvest and
community achievement.
3 Marukdok
Performed at gatherings, Marukdok
features quick footwork and joyful moves
to promote friendship and togetherness.
DISCUSS! @
A
💬
Culture in Motion
We've explored how traditional
dances are central to Apayao's
celebrations and rituals. How do
these traditional dances help
preserve Apayao's unique
culture? Can you think of
examples from your own
community or country where
dance plays a similar role in
cultural preservation?
DISCUSS! @
A
💬
✅
You might have said...
Traditional dances keep cultural stories and histories alive for new
generations.
They teach values and traditions through movement and
performance.
They provide a way for people to connect with their heritage and
community.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS OF APAYAO
Sound and Tradition
Music is central to Isneg rituals and
dances. Traditional instruments are crafted
from local materials and produce unique
sounds that accompany celebrations and
ceremonies.
KEY TRADITIONAL INSTRUMENTS
Bunkaka
(Bamboo Buzzer)
Gambal (Drum) A bamboo instrument Tongali (Nose
A large wooden drum producing a buzzing Flute)
used to keep rhythm sound when struck. A flute played with the
during dances and nose, creating soft,
rituals. melodic tunes.
CRAFTING INSTRUMENTS
Materials and Skills
Instrument-making is a respected skill in
Apayao. Bamboo, wood, and animal skin
are commonly used. Each instrument is
crafted with care, sometimes decorated
with carvings or paint to reflect Isneg
artistry.
MUSIC IN RITUALS
Spiritual and Social Roles
Music is not just entertainment; it is woven
into rituals, healing practices, and social
gatherings. The rhythms and melodies are
believed to connect people with nature
and the spirit world.
MATCH THE WORDS WITH THE
DEFINITIONS 🎯
1. a) A traditional bamboo instrument that produces
Isneg
a buzzing sound when struck.
2. b) The major indigenous group of people native to
Bunkaka
Apayao Province.
3. c) A large wooden drum used by the Isneg people
Tongali
to keep rhythm during dances and rituals.
4. d) A unique flute played with the nose, creating
Gambal
soft and melodic tunes.
MATCH THE WORDS WITH THE ✅
DEFINITIONS 🎯
1. b) The major indigenous group of people native to
Isneg
Apayao Province.
2. a) A traditional bamboo instrument that produces
Bunkaka
a buzzing sound when struck.
3. d) A unique flute played with the nose, creating
Tongali
soft and melodic tunes.
4. c) A large wooden drum used by the Isneg people
Gambal
to keep rhythm during dances and rituals.
PRESERVING APAYAO HERITAGE
Challenges Efforts
Modernization and migration threaten Schools, festivals, and local leaders
traditional practices and languages. promote cultural education and pride.
APAYAO TODAY
Balancing Tradition and
Progress
Apayao continues to evolve, blending its
rich heritage with new opportunities in
education, tourism, and local governance.
The province is recognized for its peaceful
communities and commitment to
preserving indigenous identity.
QUIZ: APAYAO'S HERITAGE
Question 1:
What is the primary indigenous group inhabiting Apayao Province?
Question 2:
Name two traditional dances of Apayao and briefly describe what each dance
represents.
Question 3:
How do traditional musical instruments like the Gambal, Bunkaka, and Tongali
contribute to the cultural and spiritual life of the Isneg people?
Answers on the next slide...
QUIZ: APAYAO'S HERITAGE ✅
Answer 1:
The Isneg people are the major indigenous group residing in Apayao Province.
Answer 2:
The Tadek is a courtship dance mimicking bird movements, while the Talip is a
social dance depicting daily life and community cooperation.
Answer 3:
These instruments are integral to rituals, dances, and social gatherings, believed
to connect the Isneg people with nature and the spirit world.
REFLECT AND CONNECT
Applying What You've
Learned
● How can you support the preservation
of indigenous cultures like those in
Apayao?
● What similarities do you see between
Apayao traditions and those in your
own community?
● Why is it important to celebrate
cultural diversity in the Philippines?
SUMMARY: APAYAO'S
RICH TAPESTRY
Apayao province is a vibrant example of cultural
resilience and diversity. From its historical roots
and unique attire to its dances and music,
Apayao offers valuable lessons about identity,
tradition, and the importance of honoring our
heritage.
