#Philippines indigenous spiritual beliefs and practices

[alsentaghama]

My Binabaylan Journey

Binabaylang Magbaya To learn more about my journey and how I embarked on this sacred spiritual path, follow me and become a member on Buy Me a Coffee. Join me as I share my spiritual experiences, beliefs, practices, and even my latest discoveries and learnings. Together, we can explore the depths of spirituality and unlock ancient wisdom! 🙏Mayari na! Magbaya!🙏

[thegreatdeprussian]

what's philippines' relationship with faith?

Yup, I have hwspirilovebot for seatalia but that's alright! I can answer asks here too

And this news right here sums up Filipino faith:

Okay but jokes aside, Piri is definitely religious and superstitious. Spiritual? Hmmm. He will get there one day. Besides, how Piri's relationship with faith is viewed depends on his age. Here's an oversimplified timeline of what religions dominated the PH archipelago through the centuries:

Ancient: Animism

800s: Buddhism and Hinduism

1300s: Islam

1500s: Christianity

Modern: Buddhism, Taoism, and Hinduism from Chinese and Indian immigrants, Judaism from Jewish refugees, more Christian denominations, etc.

Some headcanon that Piri is a representation of a precolonial chiefdom, for example, if he was Sugbu (modern day Cebu), he would be practicing a combination of Animism, Hinduism, and Buddhism, before being baptised as a Roman Catholic in the 1500s. If he was Maynila, then it would be the aforementioned 3 with Islam (but he still ate pork in that era, lmao). Some also headcanon that Piri was born in 1521 when Magellan gifted Rajah Humabon with the Santo Niño upon the latter's baptism, and in that case, his relationship with faith will also be different (@sweaty-clouds can expound on this better than I do 🤧)

I view that Piri was born due to the intramarriages and intramigration within the archipelago that came to be known as the Philippines. I have no specific date yet, but it's sometime in the 1300s or earlier.

There are tons of belief systems in the country, different set of Deities and Anitos for every ethnolinguistic group and indigenous group. Some are remembered, many are forgotten. Not all are worshipped as the dominant religions are monotheistic.

The Philippines is a Roman Catholic-dominant (but under the constitution, the church and the state are separate, and you are free to practice your religion), and my Piri practiced it under Spanish colonization until today. Discrimination against indigenous people and Muslims are rampant, and Christian denominations fight each other on who worships God better and who goes to Heaven (spoilers: none of you)

Now, faith.

Faith in Tagalog has many words but the one I hear the most in churches is "sampalataya" which came from the Sanskrit word, sampratyaya (सम्प्रत्यय). We often use Diyos but when reading folklores, you will regularly come across the word Bathala which also came from Sanskrit: Batthara (भट्टार). Our fairies, Diwata, came from Sanskrit as well: Devata (देवता). Despite the dominance of Catholic faith, the Hindu-Buddhist roots are still present. Other precolonial anitist beliefs such as dancing the Obando Fertility Rites are also still practiced. We politely say excuse me (tabi-tabi po) when hiking in forests in the belief that it is the realm of spiritual entities or that the environment itself has spirits.

My version of Piri grew up practicing many belief systems, depending on which personification was his assigned guardian, but if you want to survive, you have to assimilate to the dominant culture. He was definitely a sacristan, until he became a revolutionary. He still prays, attends the mass, volunteers in the church, and participates in holy days and feasts for almost every saint today.

He doesn't sweep the floor at night as it sweeps away luck, and maybe it's just a coincidence that the Goddess Lakshmi will walk out of your house if you sweep your place after sunset. He wears an agimat or anting-anting (amulet) and despite having a medical degree, he still carries a lana (a concoction of oil and herbs to ward off evil entities). He can exorcise demons and drive away tiktik (that baby-eating monster targetting pregnant women) too. Perhaps he has an altar in his house that has both the crucifix and a Buddha statue. Oh, and he still gives babies that red and black beaded bracelet and the red pouch for protection. Pwera Usog or Pwera Buyag! (Fuera Curse, to repel a hex)

Piri's not agnostic, but he sure rolls his eyes during homilies when the priests shuns people who believes in precolonial or pagan beliefs, and he definitely cringes at fuccboys who have John 3:16 in their bio.

What else did I miss? Piri's Catholic guilt? The way my dad did the sign of the cross in front of a giant Buddha statue when we went to Thailand? or one of my friends visiting my other friend's condo and saying "Yup. This is bad Fung Shui", but there's a rosary on his doorknob so it balances out

There are tons of mythological creatures too, and the babaylan who was demonized and now referred to as a mangkukulam, but my brain is just not braining at the moment and I feel like I answered more about religion rather than faith but I still hope this still answers your question, anon.

TLDR: Folk Christianity, but this needs more thoughts from Filipinos of other religions

[amethystbubbly]

The Role of the Pre-Colonial Filipina in the Philippines

Does Philippines have Patriarchal Society?

Only with disastrous entrance of the Spanish colonists, patriarchy was instituted. Traditionally indigenous Philippine society was reorganized by the Spaniards, who assigned and confined women to the home to care for the family and to do household work. As a result, the stereotype of the Filipina as a conservative, modest, and subservient person changed. However, the Filipina's inherent influence and power were not completely eliminated by such a colonialism transformation of the indigenous Philippine society's mentality and social and political framework.

The Philippines was considered the land of opportunity for feminism. women holding prominent positions in politics, succeeding in business, etc. Spanish colonization continues to influence the language, culture, and misogyny which Filipina women face within such a male-dominated society, even during the "post-colonial" era. Filipino families had carried down ideas about female inferiority from the colonial era unlike priceless jewels that are impossible to part with.

Women in the Pre-colonial era

The Philippines' well before society may best be described as egalitarian. Native Americans frequently saw each other as equals in their daily lives. Women frequently played major roles in their societies, making the decisions in such a variety of fields, including economics and politics. As just a result of both the native Filipinos' beliefs, which were based on connection and respect, sexism had never been a concept.

The Babaylan and Filipino Spirituality

Among the most important individuals in early Philippine history was the Babaylan. They served as intermediaries between both the two worlds because they were spiritual leaders with the capacity to interact with the spirit realm. Babaylan were categorized as holy priestesses, healers, and a wide variety of other supernatural beings because to their diverse range of skills. More significantly, the Babaylan took charge the religious activities including sacrifices and ceremonies and provided support for pain-free birthing. The Babaylan are virtually entirely female, especially the elders, while some transgender men also participated in the culture. Babaylan consistently led society in unison, where their abilities helped Datus fight off enemies. They had been regarded and regarded with the same respect as well as prestige as Datus (Leaders or Monarchs).

The indigenous folk religions of the Filipinos, which permitted women to lead religious activities, were frequently central to their pre-Christian beliefs. This framework held the possibility of the both parties coexisting as well as the existence of extraterrestrial species. The Babaylan were some of the folk healers who have been involved in pre-colonial traditions of divinity, relying heavily on and engaging in worship of nature spirits and deities.

Courtship and Familial Life

The courtship practices even before Spaniards show a stark contrast to contemporary Filipino views. Gender roles were nonexistent, therefore women were free to start relationships. However after marriage, Filipina women frequently retained their maiden names. When a husband was particularly well-known in the community, he would even take on her last name. Today's taboo subjects, like divorce, weren't as stigmatized, and there didn't seem to be as much pressure to maintain purity. Native Filipinos did not demand that women remain virgins or were intolerant against premarital sex.

Inside the pre-colonial era, fundamental basis of the marriage between a husband and wife was sincere companionship. Both parties contributed significantly to family decision-making rather than one dominating the other. In comparison to individuals in other East Asian countries, it was said that Filipina women enjoyed greater flexibility in their rights, including those relating to household issues and formal matters important to stability. Women who were married might still act independently and continue to perform their pre-marital civic responsibilities. Without the wife's permission, the husband had no authority to control or meddle in any of her property, businesses, or other personal concerns.

Although most parts of the Philippines did not clearly favor either a male or female offspring, children from the pre-colonial era did not experience discrimination. In contrast to gender, the validity of the offspring was a more crucial consideration. It frequently determined how much inheritance they were allowed to receive. Legitimate children inherit property from both their mothers and fathers equally, while it is unknown how much property is set aside for illegitimate children.

Families believe that every legally born child is truly deserving of opportunity for education and wealth accumulation. With in Tagalog dialect, gender-neutral phrases like "Anak" (Child) to refer to their children and other terms like "Siya" (They) to replace gendered pronouns are widely used.

Upper Elites

Men were expected to begin courtships now that upper-class Filipina women no longer did so. Similar to this, husbands were now permitted to interfere with their wives' private affairs, including buying or selling their wives' property. The colonial Filipina was helpless to that will in the Hispanic Philippines, unlike pre-colonial women who could leave inheritance to their children without involving her husband. Male preference for an offspring also started to emerge. Son and daughter were treated differently as a result, with the latter having limited access to the family's money.

Working Class

Despite the historical splendor of the egalitarian society in the Philippines being destroyed in affluent urban areas, working-class men and women maintained the traditional route. Both of the male and the lady shared responsibility for the family's concerns for domestic well-being and economic success. Relationships between men and women also contained traces of a matriarchal structure. Filipina women became noticeably better skilled in trading than their male counterparts during the colonial era. Due to their efforts, they were able to actively engage in trade and business and provide for their family. Men could take care of immediate needs, but it was usually women who snuck in lucrative strategies to raise their family's social and economic position.

References:

(2016) ‘DID YOU KNOW? Pre-Colonial Philippines’ Longstanding Tradition Of Women Leadership And Mysticism’, Filipino Women’s Network, 3 March [online] https://filipinawomensnetwork.org

Bautista, M.L.F.B. (1988) ‘Historical Influences on Gender Preference in the Philippines’, Journal of Comparative Family Studies, 19(1), p143-153 [online] https://www.jstor.org

FilipiKnow (2018) 10 Reasons Why Life Was Better In Pre-Colonial Philippines [Online] https://filipiknow.net/

[allstarph]

A Look Into The Indigenous People in the Philippines

The Philippines is home to an array of indigenous tribes with unique ways, from traditions and languages to their view of life. These tribes live and thrive in diverse environments and continue to contribute to the country’s identity today. The indigenous people in the Philippines are living and breathing proof of their lasting traditions and adaptability.

Indigenous People in the Philippines

The indigenous people in the country represent nearly 14% of the local population and are deemed the most impoverished social group in the country. The indigenous communities’ occupation of environments such as mountain ranges kept them away from the Spanish colonizers. Even today, they continue to manage their cultural identity and beliefs.

Here is the list of indigenous groups in the Philippines that thrive today.

Igorot

The Igorots are the indigenous tribes inhabiting the mountainous regions in the northern part of the country.  They are well known for being rice cultivators and for their role in building the Banaue Rice Terraces. These groups are also known to have a deep connection to their agricultural practices and spiritual traditions. The tribes that are under the Igorots include:

Bontoc

Ifugao

Kalinga

Kankanaey

Ibaloi

Tinguian

Lumad

Similar to the Igorots, the Lumad are the indigenous tribes who reside in Mindanao and Western Visayas. The distinction is based on a Cebuano term, which ironically means ‘indigenous.’ They are known for their strong connection to their environment and traditional practices, such as hunting and farming. The Lumad tribes are composed of non-Muslim groups. These include:

Manobo and its sub-groups

Subanon

Talaandig

Mamanwa

Mandaya

T’boli

Higaonon

See also: Best Places To Visit In Mindanao

Mangyan

The Mangyans are well-known for having the biggest populace among the other indigenous tribes in the Philippines. These tribes thrive on the Mindoro island and are known for their rich story-telling and basket-weaving crafts. They are comprised of 8 different groups, all with a more peaceful reputation. These groups are:

Iraya

Alangan

Tawbuid

Bangon

Buhid

Hanunuo

Tadyawan

Ratagnon

Today, around 10% of the Mangyan have embraced Christianity, both Roman Catholic and Evangelical Protestant practices.

Badjaos

The Badjaos are an Indigenous group that lives in the Sulu Archipelago and the Tawi-Tawi islands. Known as the “Sea Tribes,” they are seafaring people skilled in boat-building and water navigation. They generally earn a living as divers, fishermen, and sea navigators. 

Palawan Tribes

The Palawan tribes are defined as groups living in the mountains or lowland dwellings. These groups of tribes are known for their deep connection to their environment and long hold of their traditional resource management practices. The group under this tribe includes:

Kagayanen

Tagbanwa

Palawano

Taaw't Bato

Molbog

Batak

Most of these groups still live a rural lifestyle and even avoid urbanization.

See also: The Ultimate Palawan Travel Guide

Negritos

The Negritos tribe revolves around the indigenous people who possess dark skin and small stature. They are often considered the most ancient among other tribes and often have a hunter or gatherer background. They have different groups, which include:

Agta

Aeta

Ati

Ata

Batak

The Negritos live in many regions of the Philippines. They are found mostly in Palawan, Negros, Cebu, Mindanao, and the mountainous side of Luzon.

Challenges Faced by Indigenous People

Many indigenous tribes in the Philippines struggle to catch up or align with modern governments and trends. Here is a list of some of the ongoing challenges these communities face today:

Losing Rights to Their Ancestral Land

Indigenous people in the Philippines continuously battle to secure rights to their ancestral domains due to various factors. The most common issues include the land used for government projects, mining operations, and agricultural plantations. 

Discrimination and Social Exclusion

One of the most common and serious issues indigenous communities face today is the growing experience of discrimination. Stereotypes and lack of understanding of their culture have widely contributed to their marginalization and exclusion from the public.

Cultural Preservation and Identity

With the many influences and advancements made in today’s age, many indigenous groups are struggling to preserve their culture and tradition. Their challenges include bringing their way of life to the modern world and the younger generation in ensuring their way of life survives.

Efforts in Preserving Indigenous Cultures

Many initiatives and programs today put huge efforts into preserving and promoting indigenous cultures to the public attention. Government and non-governmental organizations are crucial in supporting indigenous communities to preserve their cultural heritage.

These projects play a huge role by providing educational platforms for anyone to learn and immerse themselves in these Indigenous traditions and views of life. For example, even the best museums in Manila display special exhibits that showcase artifacts and historical records that tell the story of these tribes.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the indigenous people in the Philippines helps keep their identity and presence alive in every Filipino's mind today. Similar to understanding the country’s deep history, it is important to study these tribes’ roles and their contribution to the country’s diverse growth. Through present efforts, indigenous cultures will thrive and live on.

[hermeticphoenix]

Diwata: Divine Nature Beings of Philippine Mythology

In Filipino mythology and folklore, Diwatas are revered as divine or supernatural beings with a significant presence in the cultural and spiritual landscape of the Philippines. These ethereal entities are often described as benevolent spirits or deities closely associated with various aspects of nature, including forests, mountains, rivers, and other natural elements.

Origins of Diwatas

The origins of Diwatas trace back to ancient indigenous beliefs and animistic practices that have been passed down through generations. The term "Diwata" itself is derived from the Sanskrit word "devata," which means deity or divine being, indicating possible influences from Hindu-Buddhist traditions in the Philippines' early history.

Throughout Philippine history, Diwatas have been revered and worshipped by indigenous communities as guardians of the environment and protectors of the natural world. They are believed to inhabit sacred spaces such as forests, caves, and bodies of water, where they exert their influence and interact with humans.

Diwatas are often depicted as beautiful and powerful beings, embodying the essence of nature and possessing supernatural abilities. They are associated with fertility, abundance, and prosperity, and are invoked for blessings, protection, and guidance in various aspects of life.

As custodians of the natural world, Diwatas play a vital role in indigenous rituals, ceremonies, and traditions, where offerings and prayers are made to honor and appease these divine entities. Their presence permeates Philippine culture, influencing beliefs, customs, and practices across the archipelago.

Diwatas from Occult Perspective

Diwatas are entities existing within the etheric-astral plane, a realm beyond the physical world that encompasses infinite dimensions with varying energy vibrations. Unlike some etheric- astral beings that remain elusive and distant, Diwatas possess a more tangible presence, although they remain invisible to the naked human eye unless one has developed astral senses or the Diwatas choose to reveal themselves.

Diwatas are revered for their protective and nurturing qualities. However, they are not to be underestimated, as there are instances where they may administer punishment to individuals who have offended or harmed them, even unintentionally. Yet, Diwatas are known to be forgiving beings, often willing to pardon those who express genuine remorse and offer appeasements.

Diwatas are known for being divine entities, and not just nature spirits. They are revered for their beauty and wisdom, with depictions often portraying them as females with fair skin, flowing hair, and radiant countenances, although male Diwatas exist too. Within their realm, Diwatas maintain a hierarchical structure, with queens and other ranks guiding their society.

Aside from that, they serve as custodians of portals, treasures, and magical artifacts. They may entrust such items to human beings of high level of spiritual maturity but they can take them back if they are misused for selfish gains.

Diwatas, like other astral beings, possess free will. This means there are both benevolent and malevolent Diwatas, with the positive ones being more common. While encountering benevolent Diwatas may offer guidance and assistance, the malevolent counterparts can be challenging to deal with. They are quite powerful and deceitful, and they may even exert control over other astral beings if so inclined. However, interactions with malevolent Diwatas are rare, as they tend to be elusive and aloof.

What can we learn from these nature spirits? Diwatas urge human beings to take care of nature and animals, to guard our wealth properly, to be responsible for our actions, to do good works even when no one is looking, and most importantly, to remain humble when we attain fortune and blessings in life.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are mostly based on hermetic perspective and may vary from traditional Filipino beliefs.

[dan6085]

Title: The Arrival of Chinese in the Philippines: Pre-Spanish Colonial Years

Introduction

The history of the Philippines is rich and diverse, shaped by centuries of interactions with different cultures and civilizations. One significant chapter in this history is the arrival of the Chinese in the pre-Spanish colonial years. This essay explores the early interactions between the Chinese and the indigenous peoples of the Philippines, highlighting the cultural, economic, and social exchanges that occurred before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers.

Early Chinese Migration

Historical records indicate that Chinese traders and settlers had established contact with the Philippine archipelago long before the Spanish arrived in the 16th century. The Chinese were skilled sailors and traders, venturing into Southeast Asia for various purposes such as trade, exploration, and cultural exchange. They established settlements along the coasts and engaged in commerce with the local communities.

The first recorded Chinese presence in the Philippines dates back to the 9th century during the Song Dynasty in China. Historically, Chinese traders and merchants explored various parts of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, for trade and commerce purposes. However, the specific names of the first Chinese individuals to set foot in the Philippines are not documented in historical records, making it challenging to pinpoint their identities accurately. The interactions between early Chinese traders and the indigenous peoples of the Philippines were likely informal and occurred over centuries, paving the way for the extensive Chinese influence in the region.

Cultural Exchange

The arrival of the Chinese brought about a significant cultural exchange between the two civilizations. The Chinese introduced new technologies, agricultural practices, and artistry to the indigenous peoples of the Philippines. This cultural interchange led to the assimilation of certain Chinese elements into the local cultures, shaping aspects of language, cuisine, and craftsmanship.

Economic Impact

The economic impact of Chinese migration was profound. The Chinese were renowned traders, bringing valuable goods such as ceramics, silk, and metalwork to the archipelago. They established trade networks, contributing to the growth of local economies. The exchange of goods and resources fostered economic prosperity in various regions, encouraging the development of local industries and markets.

Social Interactions

Social interactions between the Chinese and the indigenous communities were multifaceted. Intermarriages occurred, leading to the integration of Chinese and Filipino lineages. This intermingling of cultures created a diverse and multicultural society, where people embraced a blend of traditions and customs.

Religious Syncretism

Religious beliefs and practices were also subject to syncretism between the Chinese and the indigenous peoples. The Chinese brought with them their religious beliefs, including Taoism and Buddhism. Over time, these beliefs intertwined with local animistic religions and folk traditions, giving rise to unique syncretic practices. This fusion of spiritual beliefs enriched the religious landscape of the Philippines.

Conclusion

The arrival of the Chinese in the Philippines before the Spanish colonial period significantly influenced the cultural, economic, and social fabric of the archipelago. The early interactions between the Chinese settlers and the indigenous peoples laid the foundation for a multicultural society, characterized by diverse traditions and practices. This historical exchange serves as a testament to the Philippines' long-standing history of cultural diversity and openness to outside influences, shaping the nation's identity in profound ways.

[apuadman]

Questions from our Binabaylan in London

Questions from our Binabaylan in London

1. What is Luntiang Aghama’s purpose and goal in the Philippines?  Luntiang Aghama Natural Divine Arts Shrine of Healing Inc is a Duly Registered Religious Corporation Sole that aims to preserve Philippine Traditional and Indigenous Spiritual Beliefs and practices and one of it which is still known is the Practice of Hilot. Though Hilot is not a Religion or Spiritual Belief, but as we dig deeper…

[pinoy-culture]

before I ask my question, I just wanted to say thank you so so so much for keeping up your blog and consistently giving out information where its readily accessible!!!

maybe this will make me sound like an idiot but to preface, I’m a mixed filipino american. My mom is filipino and some chinese and my dad is some sort of european and puerto rican. i was wondering, in your opinion, do you think it’d be okay for me (eventually) work with diwata and anitos? And how can I start? Ive been trying to communicate with my ancestors and I’ve been looking for books to one day buy (im extremely broke so your blog and any filipino witches i come across is all the info i can get) but i honestly have no clue where to start other than with my ancestors (weird dreams lately but nothing ancestor related i think). i took a DNA test as a gift and it pointed, predominantly, to the Western Visayas so im assuming i should study more on pre-colonial Bisayan culture (my lolas from iloilo so it makes sense i guess) but i also know that “blood quantum” is a colonizer concept so i dont wanna rely on it too much :/ sorry to ramble but pls help lol

First, I'd like to say thank you for following the blog! It really does mean a lot to me to hear from others over the years on how much my blogs have helped them learn about our history and culture.

Now as for working with our diwata and the anito, that is completely ok. The whole blood quantum thing among some Filipinos I honestly don't agree with. As long as you have a family member who is Filipino, you are Filipino regardless of your "percentage" and of how you look. If you have Filipino blood in you, the ancestors are there with you. Even if you weren't raised within Filipino culture or a Filipino household because your parents never brought you up in it, or you are an adoptee like some I've met over the years. Your ancestors are your ancestors regardless. They see you and know you and that is all that matters.

Now there really isn't any book focused specifically on reviving our precolonial beliefs and practices. Yes, some did survive and some even blended in with a form of Folk Christianity in the Philippines. You can see many of the older practices and beliefs still alive, but they have been replaced with Catholic imagery and Saints.

But, in regards actually believing in and worshiping our old deities, doing rituals dedicated to the deity, or even some rites of passage like the Tagalog first menstruation rite of passage, or making carved figures dedicated to the diwata and anito, or performing maganito/paganito or atang to the diwata and anito, majority of Filipinos don't do this, or even know it.

So for being an Anito Reconstructionist, which is a label I personally use for my spiritual beliefs and others have adopted, there really isn't a book for it. A Reconstructionist in other ethnic spiritual paths, such as the Celtic, Roman, Aztec, Kemetic, Greek, Norse, etc., are those who look at historical records to try and piece together what was once practiced and believed in prior to Christianity. Over many years, these different spiritual paths have eventually come together, formed a community, and have resources like books and teachers. They have had the time to do all the research and put together a more formal spirituality based on those Pre-Christian beliefs and bringing it to the modern day where they have hundreds to thousands of people who have gone back to those beliefs. With some, they have even created temples, shrines to their deities, and even have celebrations.

Unfortunately that is not the case for us. However, due to the growing interest in our precolonial beliefs and practices over the years, I can see Anito Reconstructionism growing within the next several years. It already has, with many people actually trying to learn more about these beliefs and our old deities. The amount of people of people I've seen and talked to who have expressed their interest to reclaim these precolonial beliefs and practices is nothing compared to 10 years ago when it was hard to even find one or two people who did.

It is why I've been writing this book for a few years now dedicated to helping others in wanting to reclaim our precolonial beliefs and practices as a starting point in their research. For now though, I always recommend those who are starting to simply just read the historical texts. Grab a notebook and write down notes. Organize your notes into deities, rituals, how to make an offering, any prayers to a specific deity, how to set up an altar, etc.

Seeing as your family is from the island of Panay in the Western Bisayas, like my moms side are from, I would start with looking at the Bisayan precolonial beliefs and practices. A really good reference is reading Francisco Alcina's History of the Bisayans (1668). Volume 3 is available online in English which you can find here. Volume 3 goes into a lot of detail in the beliefs and practices. The Boxer Codex, if you are able to get a copy of the English translation, is also really good reading material.

Getting Started:

In terms of getting started, keep in mind that there is no one monolithic belief system or practice in the Philippines. Before there ever was a Philippines, we were different nations with different beliefs and practices. It is important to know your ethnic groups beliefs and practices and know their history. For example, I am Bisaya (Akeanon specifically) and Tagalog and that is what I work with. Others who I know follow the Bikolano, Kapampangan, or Ilokano beliefs. Though there are some similarities, each ethnic group had their own set beliefs and practices.

I often tell people that you can't just mix and match between them. For example, though I work with both the Tagalog and Bisayan pantheons, I wouldn't dare do a ritual offering to both a Tagalog or Bisayan deity at the same time. It's always separate. You also can't combine 2 similar deities together from different ethnic groups just because they share similar attributes. It's just rude and disrespectful.

Start out small. Set up an altar dedicated to your ancestors. If you have any family members who have passed, put a photo of them on the altar. Leave offerings of rice cakes such as suman, food like chicken adobo, or even a cup of drink such as tuba, lambanog, or even Red Horse beer. But if you can't get access to an alcoholic drink either because one you are a minor or 2 it's not available where you live, you can simply replace it with a non-alcoholic drinks like coconut juice. Get a coconut shell or a seashell to either place these offerings as bowls/plates or even use them to put your kamangyan or incense.

Then start researching how our Bisayan ancestors worshiped and practiced. Study the history and read historical accounts, books, and articles about them. Write down what you have learned on these precolonial beliefs and practices and reconstruct or revive them. This is what Polytheistic Recinstructionists do. I have listed links to these texts here.

Ask questions to your family, particularly your elders. See if they know of anything or if they can share some traditional practices and beliefs they know of have heard of. You would be surprised how, despite some families being really religious, many still believe in the spirits, do some form of ancestor veneration, believe in omens that are being told to you by the ancestors or spirits, etc.

If you can, try to go back to the Philippines and see your family's ancestral home, see where they grew up, etc. Ask about family stories and folk stories. For example, my mom grew up in Aklan and has always told me stories of the aswang and certain omens. She also constantly talks about the mischievous "little people" who play tricks on you (for example putting something down like your keys and then it goes missing, until you find it again somewhere else). In the Western Bisayas, they are known as kama-kama. There is also a story of how her grandmother's cat visited her during her wake. The cat was missing for years, but it came back and stayed sleeping on top of the casket for days before it left. My mom told me that it was the cat paying their respects to her grandmother.

Keep in mind also and acknowledge our indigenous communities who have kept their beliefs and practices. Don't try to take them into your own. I have seen people cherry pick things from the Manobo of Mindanao or the Kalinga in the Cordillera, which is just disrespectful. Many of the IP, though some still have kept their beliefs, it isn't the most important aspect to them. What they are most concerned about are other issues such as losing their homes due to occupation by oil or logging companies, other settlers such as the Tagalog and Bisayans (especially in Mindanao), getting targeted as "rebels" by the Philippine military and often getting killed. But, by cherry picking beliefs especially of the IP groups, it's just disrespectful.

I will be teaching classes on Anito Reconstructionism soon and will have my first class possibly at the end of the month or next month. I decided to do these classes seeing as there is a growing community who are interested, but don't know where to start. I'll be doing a proper announcement on these classes real soon so look out for the announcement and hopefully you will be able to join!

[sartorialadventure]

The Yami or Tao people of Lanyu (Orchid) Island, Taiwan

These indigenous peoples have been more commonly recognized as the Yami people, following a Japanese anthropologist's coining of the name. However, as a collective, these Orchid Island inhabitants typically prefer "Tao people" as their group identifier. They are part of the Austronesian family, and designated members of the Taiwanese aborigines. Despite being linked to both indigenous Taiwanese and Filipino populations, the Tao people remain unique in their customs and cultural practices.

Composed of approximately 3,100 individuals, the island populace relies heavily on fishing for survival. The Tao people's emphasis on fishing and ocean culture reflects their intense connection to the sea as being about much more than survival; they use fishing and the building of boats as an extension of themselves, and as a way to honor their spiritual beliefs. Their ways of life have been threatened by the continued emigration to the mainland of Taiwan in search of jobs and education. As a result, the continuation of past traditions has been hindered.

Citing threats to their cultures and health concerns, the Tao people have been protesting the nuclear waste plant imposed on their island by the government in 1982 and advocating for its removal.

Traditional Tao garb consists of simple, uni-colored fabrics made of natural plant fibers. Due to the nature of their fishing tasks, men typically only wear a loincloth and collarless vest. This also helps them to better cope with the stifling heat. Women's dress typically consists of a cloth or short vest to cover their upper body, and an apron-like cloth to cover parts of their lower body. For special or ceremonial occasions, men and women wear blue and white vests in addition to vibrant accessories, such as an octagonal wooden hat for women, and silver helmets for men. During funerals and times of mourning, women wear their upper garments inside out, and men wear a piece of cloth, reverse side out, on their heads. It is also considered taboo to wear clothing with an odd number of blue or black stripes. Therefore, clothing patterns typically consist of 8 to 12 stripes. Neither in ritualistic or everyday situations do the Tao people wear shoes.

The Spanish shipped tons of silver coins from the mines of Mexico to the Philippines. There, the Spanish would purchase items from Chinese merchants using the silver coins. Inevitably, some silver coins ended up on Lanyu. The locals melted and hammered the silver coins into coils and made helmets out of them. With no known enemies, the helmets were not used for protection. Rather, the helmet was a mark of wealth and had animist qualities. The helmet was brought out during ceremonies to show the owner's wealth. As one accumulated more silver coins, the helmet was enlarged. In addition, the helmet was respected and thought to have supernatural powers. It was used to bless homes, fields, and boats. At the beginning of the fishing season, the helmet would be waved at the coastline to attract fish.

The most famous of the Tao dances is the women’s Hair Dance, also known as the Hair-Flinging Dance. For this, the women get in a line, standing side by side and, elbow to elbow, holding each other tightly by the hands, they do not move their feet at first but let their hair fly wildly. As they start to sing, they bend their bodies forward until their long hair touches the ground, and now they begin to move their feet, gradually advancing in a line as they keep flinging their long hair with increasing force and a forward and backward movement of the head. As they dance, they also bend their knees, which adds extra momentum to their moves and allows them to fling their hair even more powerfully to the rhythm of the music.

[allaboutacyagirlblogs]

Dimensions of Self - Social Self

Hello! How’s everyone doing? Previously, we talked about the Biological Dimension of Self where we discussed how every person portray and project themselves through physical and sexual self. Today we will discuss the Social Dimension of Self. This topic includes three (3) aspect and will be discussed now. So without further ado, Let’s start!

Unit 1.1: Social Self

Looking upon when we were born, one already belongs to a social group. Our first social group may be classified as our family where we grow as an individual or your sibling may be classified as your first friend. As time passed by, our social groups expands. We join other social groups that fits your liking whether it is a baddie squad or the cool kids among the bunch, or even religious groups hoping to strengthen your spirituality more.

Moreover, other educational environment and institution also helps us improve our communication and social skills that will help us connect with other people. By socializing and exchanging of ideas with your peers will surely develop your skills.

Moving forward, Herbert Mead differentiate the term “I” and “me” whereas the term “I” is known as the unsocialized self. In contrast to “me” where it is known as the socialized self.

To simplify the terminologies, “I” is how you view yourself (reality on your own). The “I” concept shows more often when the person is alone because “I” believed that no one judges them when their natural selves are vulnerable. On the other hand, “me” is how you perceived yourself to others.

Unit 1.2: Cultural Self

Culture, on the other hand, has an impact in molding our social differences. This aspect may differ depending on the geographical location, traditional, and individual contexts. As defined by Edward Tylor (2010), “culture is the complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, law, art, moral, custom, and other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of the society.” With that being said, culture reflects on people’s shared norms, beliefs, and personality.

To give examples, Philippines are known for it’s people’s hospitability. Using po and opo as a sign of respect to elderly are also common.

Art and music also plays it’s specific roles in terms of culture. Arts have many styles to express the artist’s emotions and music, such as indigenous music, can be a factor to identify it’s community.

Since culture may vary depending on the geographical location, make sure to know and learn what are the sensitive areas of the specific culture possessed to avoid cultural inappropriation.

Unit 2: Socio-Digital Self

In today’s world, technologies is a necessity. The truth? Technology actually opens up opportunity towards everything and gives ease to anyone by just using the tip of your finger. However, this also affects the mental and emotional health of an individual.

If you’re thinking how does a single technology affect the mental and emotional health of a person? Let’s find out.

Our social media is a great way to escape the reality, which is also true. It makes us happy just by using your own device. But some people are seeing social media as their lifeblood, where their everyday lives are revolving through social media.

People tend to build their digital identity to attract fellow netizens. We all know, numbers makes us crazy. If a person build their platform and it grows, it is addictive, Once you had the taste of popularity where your video became viral, you tend create more because you want have it again be addicted like smoking a pot.

We have to remember that indulging to something in a negatively manner is a risk for our health. Remember that less is more and the real happiness does not always come with just using your smartphones. You have to look beyond your screens and appreciate the beauty of the outside.

Disconnect in able to reconnect.

Unit 3: The Material / Economic Self

As a normal person, it is not new for me to say, “reward yourself,” because who doesn’t want to treat yourself sometimes? It is fulfilling if you purchase something for yourself.

Going on a trip because you have a fear of missing out. Sometimes, I am guilty of it because we don’t want to miss anything and we just tell ourselves, “bonds are more important, just save again later.”

As a regular consumer, sometimes we confuse the difference between needs and wants and sometimes see them as “needs”. As a responsible consumer, we have to practice limiting ourselves from being an impulsive buyer. Try the 7-day rule, where you have to wait and ask yourself if you really need that thing you keep looking for on that shelf for 7 days. With that, this may help us save some cash and can be allocated to much more needed purchases and in terms of emergencies.

Want to know more about other topics? Stay tuned for the other blog entries coming right up!

Next topic: Mental Self

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Dimension of Self - Biological Self

[mangomoth]

im so fucking sick of these antitheist communists demanding secularism from their religious comrades especially if theyre poc like do you fucking know how many of us are religious/spiritual SOLELY bc our precolonial practices survived by being christianized/assimilated into a larger belief system?? im a filipino who is incredibly divorced by my people’s indigenous practices bc of colonialism and i had to make the hard decision of leaving catholicism for my own personal reasons knowing that a good chunk of how its practiced in the philippines contains the few vestiges of precolonial filipino culture that were/are still accessible to me as someone whos ancestors were assimilated long before this past century but for YOU personally to demand that every single religious communist shed their personal beliefs at the door is so fucking evil when for some of us (and especially jewish muslim and indigenous comrades) our beliefs are what cause us to arrive to the conclusion of Communism to begin with

[akosiandrei]

Part 3

What are the benefits of religious diversity?

We can find hope in unity among religions. The hallmark and benchmark for measuring the influence of cultures and religious practices in a nation has always been religious and cultural education and this can also be used as a template for understanding a country’s cultural resilience and scope. As in other countries, there has been a great struggle in the Philippines over the clash between indigenization and the Arabization of Islam in the public sphere, where there has been social tension between cultural and religious institutions that provide formation for Muslim communities in the Philippines due to a globalized culture and the pace of awareness. Thus, the value of our nation consisting of distinct religious groups is that they will contend with each other for upward growth of moral goodness. This entails them being tolerant of diversity. As the formation of the heavens and the earth are among the marvelous signs of nature, the nature variety of human languages and skin colors is understood as signs of God’s wonder and reverence for his unity, strength and mercy. Islam teaches that we all belong to one human family as human beings, without any intrinsic biological dominance of one over another.

Religion gives people something to believe in, provides a sense of structure and typically offers a group of people to connect with over similar beliefs. These facets can have a large positive impact on mental health. Both religion and spirituality can have a positive impact on mental health. In some ways, they provide the same impact. For example: Both religion and spirituality can help a person tolerate stress by generating peace, purpose and forgiveness. But benefits generally vary between the two due to their different nature. And can provides guidelines to live by, teaches compassion, forgiveness and gratitude and identify life lessons, even from challenging situations. In individuality religious diversity can enhances a person’s sense of self and empowerment through the choice to decide what their practice looks like, helps you focuses on individual’s connection to what they believe in and their own personal growth and last can accepts any person, whether they are part of a religion or not.

In many ways, Religion has a positive impact, like providing a sense of purpose and mora; guidance to individuals. This helps to organized and stable. It offers ceremonies for great events in life, such as marriage, birth and death. Each religion has helped mankind. Paganism increased in man the light of beauty, the largeness and height of his life, his aim at a many-sided perfection; Christianity gave him some vision of divine love and charity; Buddhism has shown him a noble way to be wiser, gentler, purer, Judaism and Islam how to be religiously faithful in action and zealously devoted to God; Hinduism has opened to him the largest and profoundest spiritual possibilities. Religion in its purest form has provided many benefits for humanity. Within all religions, there are teachings of goodwill to our fellow men. The golden rule of religious teaching is to treat others as we would like to be treated ourselves. Religious teachings emphasize the need to help our fellow human beings. The loftiest lesson is to do this selfless service without hope of reward or recognition but to collaborate with other people with a sense of solidarity and identity. Religion can motivate people, in its purest form, to serve other’s welfare, not out of ego, but out of a sense of divine obligation. In all the major religions, this idea of selfless service is found and has contributed to the establishment of many charitable works.

Sarmiento, Rojen Marie

[dan6085]

The Philippines is a country with a rich and diverse history, and the indigenous peoples who inhabited the islands before the arrival of the Spanish are an important part of that history. These indigenous groups, collectively known as the Lumad, are still present in the Philippines today, and their customs, traditions, and ways of life offer a window into the country's past and present.

The Lumad are a group of around 20 million people who belong to various ethnic groups and speak over a hundred different languages. Before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, these groups lived in various regions of the Philippines, including the Cordillera Mountains in the north, the Sierra Madre range in the east, and the Mindanao region in the south.

The Lumad were skilled farmers, hunters, and fishermen, and had developed sophisticated systems of agriculture and resource management. They practiced a variety of religions and spiritual beliefs, many of which were animistic in nature and involved the worship of nature spirits and ancestral deities.

Social organization among the Lumad was typically based on kinship ties and clan affiliations, with each clan having its own distinct culture and traditions. Conflict between clans was common, often related to competition over resources or disputes over land boundaries.

The Lumad also had a rich tradition of art and cultural expression, including music, dance, and crafts such as weaving and pottery. Many of these artistic traditions are still practiced today, and have been recognized as important cultural treasures by the Philippine government and international organizations.

The arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century brought significant changes to the Philippines, including the introduction of Christianity and the establishment of colonial rule. The Lumad were forced to adapt to these new conditions, with many converting to Christianity and adopting Spanish cultural practices.

Despite these changes, however, the Lumad have continued to maintain their own distinct cultural identities and traditions. Today, they face a variety of challenges, including land disputes, discrimination, and cultural marginalization. However, they remain an important and vibrant part of the Philippines' cultural heritage, and their contributions to the country's history and identity are valued and celebrated by many.

In conclusion, the indigenous peoples of the Philippines before the coming of the Spaniards were a diverse and vibrant group of people with rich and varied cultures and traditions. Despite the many challenges they have faced over the centuries, they have continued to maintain their distinct identities and contribute to the rich tapestry of Philippine culture. By understanding and appreciating the history and culture of the Lumad, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and diversity of the Philippines and its people.

[apuadman]

We are Wiccan not entrepreneur

On September 4, 2012- the Shrine of Luntiang Aghama receives its Certificate of Incorporation and was registered as Religious Corporation Sole in the Philippines. We really intend to incorporate our group and be recognized as a new religion in the Philippines that revive and restore the Indigenous Spiritual Beliefs and practices of our Ancestors.

The teachings of Wicca has become instrument…

[rgcomon-hilot]

On September 4, 2012- the Shrine of Luntiang Aghama receives its Certificate of Incorporation and was registered as Religious Corporation Sole in the Philippines. We really intend to incorporate our group and be recognized as a new religion in the Philippines that revive and restore the Indigenous Spiritual Beliefs and practices of our Ancestors. The teachings of Wicca has become instrument for us to embrace the Old Religion that our ancestors have embraced even beyond the written history and precolonial time. We do not deny (and never will be) that the begining of our Shrine is founded on Wiccan Beliefs and practices, as we have a strong bond and foundation to the Correllian Nativist Church of Wicca. It is through the Nativism doctrine of the Correllian Wicca that our shrine embraced our dedication and commitment to restore and revive the old spiritual practices of our ancestors that through colonization have been long forgotten. As a Wiccan practitioner that belongs to a registered Church locally and abroad, we value Wicca as a Religion and not as a profession for entreprenueral and commercial purpose. Indeed that as Wiccan, there is a need for tools to practice the religion. But as the teaching of Wicca, instead of buying it to shop or store, we are encouraged to create our own instead of buying it. The reason for this are obvious enough if you really undergo an initiatory training on becoming Wiccan. So real Wiccan will know why you should not buy your tools but instead create your own. As Wiccan in the Philippines, we create our own tools. We do not offer our tools to the marketplace just to desecrate it. Though we also offer our services and products to the non initiated which will help them in their mundane life. (at Luntiang Aghama Natural Divine Arts Shrine of Healing Inc.) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDliDGBn3GN/?igshid=55pnjdidkbni

[cyrish-sg]

Blog #9 UTS

Good day, chibbies!☺ We're on blog #9 and today we'll be talking about the spiritual self.

The spiritual aspect is the inner essence, the part of the self that connects us to the sacred and enables us to experience of oneness with a higher being and gives a deeper meaning to our existence and purpose of our life. Spirituality plays a very important role in my life. It helps me govern what is right and what is wrong in my life. It also helps me feel more secure and stabilize in times of hardships, sufferings, uncertainties, and others.

Many people tend to confuse spirituality with religion. Religion is a system of organized ideas about spiritual sphere and is associated with ceremonial practices y which people try to interpret and/or influence aspects of the universe otherwise beyond their control. In my spiritual self I can say that my parents played a major role in honing and establishing my spiritual map. Throughout my childhood my parents have always been in church and devoted their lives to raise their children in a Christian home. They raised us to be a god-fearing child and have faith with our God.

Spiritual self also a connection with our higher self, and our higher self is who we truly are as an individual. Showing how devoted we are as a person with the higher being we show it through acts of worship like prayer, reading the Bible, and attending sacraments. I have been raised to believe that I should live my life the way God would want me to live it.

Spirituality is also associated with animism and most people who practiced animism is the indigenous people here in the Philippines. Animism is the belief that creatures, objects, and places possess certain spirits. A belief that things and places are alive and grounded by a supernatural order. People being linked with folk belief cultivates them a consciousness of the environment that they are in, thus making them more mindful of how they act according to the different things they come in contact with.

Thank you for reading!😊