Indigenous Peoples of the Philippines Quiz

Study Notes

Indigenous Peoples (IPs) or Cultural Communities are native inhabitants preserving traditional ways of life, resisting assimilation into mainstream society.
Approximately 110 to 120 distinct ethnic groups exist, each with unique languages, customs, and belief systems.

Aeta (Agta): Reside in Luzon mountains, known for traditional healing and a deep knowledge of forests.
Igorot: Collective group from the Cordillera region, includes Bontoc, Kalinga, and Ifugao; recognized for UNESCO-listed rice terraces and strong tribal governance.
Lumad: Indigenous groups in Mindanao, including Manobo and T’boli, noted for vibrant traditions and sustainable farming practices.
Mangyan: Inhabit Mindoro, recognized for weaving, basketry, and the ancient "Surat Mangyan" writing system.
Tagbanua: From Palawan, practice traditional farming and fishing, rooted in animist beliefs tied to sacred natural sites.

Indigenous communities have faced marginalization, with rights threatened by modernization, development, and land-grabbing.
The Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997 aimed to protect rights to self-determination, cultural integrity, and ancestral domains, though implementation remains inconsistent.

Indigenous cultures exhibit diverse religious beliefs, social structures, and artistic expressions, heavily influenced by animism and nature.
Rituals and ceremonies are utilized for honoring spirits and ancestors, often governed by kinship-based systems with councils of elders or chieftains.

Luzon:
- Aeta: Bound to Zambales, Tarlac, and Pampanga; skilled in hunting and gathering, known for unique physical traits.
- Igorot: Notably skilled in crafting and known for traditional rice terraces.
Visayas:
- Ati (Panay Island): Celebrates the Ati-Atihan Festival, one of the oldest in the Philippines, highlighting cultural heritage.
- Waray-Waray (Samar and Leyte): Recognized for oral literature and dance traditions, showcasing resilience in natural disasters.

Indigenous communities maintain rich cultural identities through rituals, dances, music, oral traditions, and communal practices, contributing to the Philippines' national identity.