MODULE 14: Dances from the Mountain Regions of Northern Philippines- Cordillera Dance

I.                    Objectives:

At the end of lesson, the students are expected to:
a.      discuss cordillera dance;
b.      enumerate the different tribes from cordillera; and
c.      appreciate the value of cordillera dances.

II.                  Overview:

   Cordillera, a name given by Spanish conquistadors when they first saw the mountain ranges. Meaning “knotted rope”, the Spanish term refers to the jumbled rolls and dips of this long-ranges traversing the northern part of Luzon island. The bontoc, ifugao, apayao, kailinga, benguet are the tribes living in simple lives to appease their gods. Their rituals celbrate their daiy lives- a good harvest, health, peace, war and other symbols of living such traditions have survived the charging scope of the philippines and the tribes continue to the mountain their culture that are a part of the colorful cultural fabric known as Philippines  culture.

III.                Learning Content:
             

Cordillera Group Dances

·         Bontoc

Bontocs once feared as head hunter of the north. They are highly civilized community that is ruled by their commandment. They listen to spirit dictate, if they explore into head expedition through a dance ritual called “mangayaw” a ritual preparation for a battle or head hunting expedition

·         Ifugao

Uyauy-greatest gathering of all bumayah festivals.

·         Benguet

Bendian- a welcome for successful head hunting. This celebrated by benguet to head prolonged illness, relieve natural calamities and to observe a bountiful harvest

·         Apayao

Pingpingaw- imitative  gesture of high flying bird called turayen

Apayaos are strong believers of their spirit- god called anito. Most of their festivals are offered to their anito in the celebration of good harvest.

·         Kalinga

Ragragsakan- a dance of woman balancing loads of clays pots or baskets on their head. The kalingas are referred to as “peacocks of the mountain” because of their love for bright colors, decorative body tattooing common for both sexes.