Abra (Itneg Tinguian)

GUIDANCE

Please note that the information provided below is aimed to give a very general, introductory overview. There may be variations in practices and beliefs among different sets of Itney/Tinguian communities that reside in the Philippines. Additionally, some of the language or materials presented may be rooted, unknowingly, with a colonial context or contain words, terms and phrases that may be inaccurate, derogatory, and harmful towards the people of the Philippines and its subsequent diasporic communities. The content and material presented within the Bahay Ugnayan website do not represent the staff or the owners' views; they are presented simply as information to be absorbed, interpreted, and corrected if necessary. All associated parties linked to Bahay Ugnayan hold strong anti-colonial, anti-racist positions and support the present and historically marginalized and disenfranchised communities of the Philippines.

LOCATION

Historical: The indigenous people of Abra, collectively known as the Tingguian or Itneg, have historically inhabited the mountainous regions of Abra province in Northern Luzon, Philippines. The rugged terrain and river valleys of Abra have shaped their way of life and cultural practices.

Present: Today, the Tinguian continue to reside in Abra province, with communities spread across various municipalities including Tubo, Luba, and Manabo.

Assumptions: Itneg is a self-identification of the ethnolinguistic group in Abra, the archaic term is Tinguian. Isneg are also from Apayao who migrated and now live in Ilocos areas.

CURRENT POPULATION ESTIMATE

The Abra and Tingguian population is estimated to be around 100,000 individuals.

LANGUAGE(S) SPOKEN

The Tinguian people speak the Itneg language, which belongs to the Northern Luzon subgroup of the Philippine languages. Many Tinguian are also fluent in Ilocano and Tagalog due to regional interactions.

BRIEF CONTEXT

The Tinguian, also known as Itneg, are known for their rich cultural heritage and resistance to colonization. Their social structure is organized into clans, with strong emphasis on family and community ties.

SPECIALIST ARTS & CULTURAL ASPECTS

WEAVING

Weaving is a significant craft among the Tinguian. The traditional weaving process involves:

- Preparation: Fibers from cotton and abaca are spun into threads.

- Dyeing: Natural dyes derived from plants and minerals are used to color the threads.

- Weaving: The pinilian loom is commonly used, allowing the creation of intricate designs.

- Designs and Motifs: Common motifs include geometric patterns and nature-inspired designs such as the binakol (whirlwind pattern) and kusikos (spiral pattern). The colors red, black, and white are prominently used, symbolizing various cultural values.

BASKETRY

Basket weaving is another important craft, utilizing materials such as rattan and bamboo. These baskets are used for practical purposes and ceremonial functions.

MUSIC AND DANCE

Traditional Tinguian music includes instruments such as the gansa (gong) and tongali (nose flute). Dances like the talip (courtship dance) and tadek (community dance) are performed during rituals and celebrations.

SPECIALIST ANTHROPOLOGICAL BELIEFS

The Tinguian have a complex belief system that includes animism, ancestor worship along with Christianity. Rituals are conducted by shamans, known as alopogan, who communicate with spirits and ancestors. Ceremonial practices often involve offerings such as rice cakes and wine to ensure community well-being and harmony.

COLLECTION EXAMPLES

Examples of the many Abra / Tinguian objects included in the Mercedes Zobel Collection of Indigenous Philippines Textiles and Artifacts are: