In this generation, most of the
people think that a tattoo on the skin has a negative connotation. It can even
affect your career, regardless of the talent and education you have. It was
October, in 2014, in Philippine National Museum, when I saw a portrait of an
old lady, with tribal tattoos on all over her body. In National Geographic,
there were several documentaries featuring how significant the tattoos and
pierces are, especially for the people in ancient times. Tattoos and pierces
are proof that a tribe recognizes a person’s accomplishment, mostly on battles.
There are several ways of tattooing around the world, depending on their
geographical feature and culture. In the Northern part of the Philippines, in
Buscalan, Kalinga, they call it as Batok.
It is an ancient/tribal form of marking (tattooing) a warrior after a
successful combat or ladies who brought pride to the tribe.
Buscalan, Kalinga is situated on
the higher part of the Mountain Province, 10 to 12 hours road travel from
Manila. Traveling from Manila was already a challenge, but the experience was
extraordinary. Before reaching Buscalan, I had a chance to see and step on one
of the former 7 New Wonders of the World – Banaue Rice Terraces (photo above). More photos, details and
my travel diary, click here: Whang Od
The village of the Butbut tribe
is surrounded by the mountains, formed into a rice terraces, for farming as
their primary source of livelihood. Their older way of farming was already influenced
by the modern way, like using a hand tractor in cultivating rice and
vegetables. They also have born-again Christian church, donated by the Koreans;
and an elementary school, by the government. The ambiance at this village is
really cool, the air is fresh and the surroundings are relaxing, because of its
geographical location.
At the village, one house captured
my attention (photo above). As what
you can see, the terrace is surrounded by hanging bones, skulls, and teeth;
they maybe from wild animals, hunted by the locals. Finally, it’s my time to be
a warrior. Photos below will explain how Batok
is done by Apo Whang Od:
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Selfie with Apo on the background |
Blood with swelling muscles (click image to enlarge) |
My *batok after 24 hours |
I’ve been part of the show
business for two years; meeting and talking to famous Philippine showbiz
personalities and politicians are nothing, than meeting Apo Whang Od. I am now
marked by the powerful hands of the National Living Treasure (legally, not yet). This mark means
success and prosperity, perfect for the forthcoming Chinese New Year. Meeting
and marked by Apo is already a success and prosperity for my future. More photos and my travel diaries, click here: Whang Od
ABOUT ME: SIRANGLENTE
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LIST OF ALL PROVINCES IN THE PHILIPPINES
LIST OF MOUNTAINS IN THE PHILIPPINES
FOLLOW MY JOURNEY ON FACEBOOK
VIEW MY PHOTOS ON INSTAGRAM
LIST OF ALL PROVINCES IN THE PHILIPPINES
LIST OF MOUNTAINS IN THE PHILIPPINES