Ethno-Linguistic Distribution of IPs in the Philippines PDF

ETHNO-LINGUISTIC DISTRIBUTION OF IPS IN THE PHILIPPINES  Highlanders  Sea-based groups  Mainstream groups  The ethno-linguistic distribution of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the Philippines refers to the way various indigenous groups are spread across the country, categorized based...

ETHNO-LINGUISTIC DISTRIBUTION OF IPS IN THE PHILIPPINES  Highlanders  Sea-based groups  Mainstream groups  The ethno-linguistic distribution of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the Philippines refers to the way various indigenous groups are spread across the country, categorized based on their geographical and cultural adaptations.  The Philippines is home to more than 110 recognized Indigenous groups, with their languages and traditions reflecting a deep connection to their respective environments.  These groups can be broadly classified into Highlanders, Sea-based groups, and Mainstream groups based on their habitat and way of life.  Highlanders  also known as upland or mountain peoples, live in the rugged and forested mountain ranges of the Philippines.  They are often subsistence farmers, practicing shifting cultivation (kaingin) or rice terrace farming.  They have preserved much of their pre-colonial traditions, as they were relatively isolated from Spanish and American influences. Many of them still practice animism, with rituals centered on nature and spirits.  Examples of Highlander IP Groups:  Ifugao – Famous for constructing the Banaue Rice Terraces, they inhabit the Cordillera region and maintain their indigenous social structure.  Kalinga – Known for their warrior traditions and intricate batok (traditional tattoos), they are skilled weavers and farmers.  Mangyan (Hanunuo & Alangan) – Found in Mindoro, they are known for their ambahan poetry and intricate weaving.  Sea-based Groups (Coastal and Maritime Peoples)  primarily inhabit coastal areas, islands, and seas. They rely on fishing, sea trade, and boat- making for survival.  Some groups, like the Bajau, are traditionally nomadic sea dwellers, while others have settled in coastal communities. Many of them have strong maritime skills, making them essential participants in local and regional trade networks.  Examples of Sea-based IP Groups:  Bajau (Sama Dilaut) – Often called "Sea Gypsies," they traditionally lived in boats and were expert divers and fishers in the Sulu and Celebes seas.  Molbog – Inhabitants of Balabac Island (Palawan), they have a strong Malay-Islamic influence and engage in fishing and sea trade.  Sama-Banguingui – A maritime group from the Sulu Archipelago, known for their boat-building skills and seafaring expertise.  Mainstream Groups (Lowland Indigenous Peoples)  Mainstream Indigenous groups are those who have historically integrated into lowland Christianized Filipino society, yet still retain distinct cultural traditions.  They are found in the plains, river valleys, and agricultural lands, often engaging in wet-rice farming and trade.  They were among the first groups to be influenced by Spanish colonization, leading to the adoption of Catholicism while still maintaining aspects of their indigenous identity.  Examples of Mainstream IP Groups:  Tagalog Remontados (Dumagat) – Originally from lowland Luzon, they retreated to the mountains to escape colonial rule but still interact with mainstream society.  Higaonon – A group from Northern Mindanao, they practice both slash-and-burn farming and trade, and some have converted to Christianity while retaining indigenous customs  Ilongot – Found in Nueva Vizcaya and Aurora, they were once known for headhunting traditions but have since adopted agriculture and Christianity.