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The Country and its People / People / Other Cultural Minorities / Bontoc

Number: 148,000

Region: central northern province of Ifugao, especially in the town of Lagawe

Religion: Animism, but simultaneously they have accepted the teachings of US missionaries. Their traditional primary deity is Lumawig, the giver of fire and animals. In addition, each village has its own sacred tree and plant. The Bontoc religion is characterized by sacrifices and ceremonies with beautiful dances.

Integration: partly integrated

Community: Communities are headed by local town officials, for administrative purposes, but their local leaders are still influential, especially on religious matters.

Technological Level: Only basic household appliances and consumer items are common in Bontoc households.

Education: About 10% of the Bontoc populace can read and write. However, most Bontocs can understand and speak a little English due to the influence of US missionaries who have been very close to them.

Employment: Although basically farmers, some of the Bontocs are employed in mining firms. Some Bontoc women are employed in convents as helpers.

Traditional Practices:

The "Olog" is a dormitory where girls of marriageable age stay and wait for their suitors. The woman sleeps there with the man and upon mutual agreement coitus can take place. Coitus between an unmarried man and an unmarried woman is only allowed inside the Olog, otherwise it is taboo. If pregnancy follows, it initiates the formation of a household. Marriage may follow later.

They practice their ancient burial method to hang coffins in caves on cliffs.

Traditional Mode of Dress: For younger men, bright colored and broadly woven G-strings; dull colored and narrower G-strings for the elders. Women wear blouses and skirts called "tapis".

Traditional Adornments: chains of beads and snake bones in the hair and tattoos on the arms up to the elbow for women

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