Bontoc
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 Bontoc 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 Bontoc people were historically found in the Mountain Province area of the Cordillera Administrative Region in Northern Luzon, Philippines.
Present: Currently, they still predominantly reside in the Mountain Province, specifically in areas like Bontoc, Sadanga, Barlig, and the surrounding regions.
CURRENT POPULATION ESTIMATE
The Bontoc population is estimated to be around 55,000. This figure varies depending on the source and the scope of the demographic survey conducted.
LANGUAGE(S) SPOKEN
The Bontoc people speak the Bontoc language, which has several dialects including Central Bontok, Southern Bontok, and Northern Bontok. The language belongs to the Northern Philippine subgroup of the Austronesian language family.
BRIEF CONTEXT
The Bontoc people are known for their complex social structures and rich cultural traditions. They have a distinct way of life revolving around agriculture, particularly rice cultivation. The Bontoc people have managed to preserve their cultural heritage despite external influences and modernization. Rituals and ceremonies play a crucial role in their community life.
SPECIALIST ARTS & CULTURAL ASPECTS
The Bontoc are renowned for their intricate weaving and textile production. The methods and materials used in their weaving include the backstrap loom, locally known as ginalman, which is used to create traditional fabrics. The primary materials are cotton which are dyed historically using natural plant-based dyes but nowadays they typically use polyester and commercial threads which are more accessible and time-saving. Common motifs include geometric patterns and symbols representing elements of nature and community life. These textiles are often used in traditional attire, such as the wanes (men's loincloth) and the lufid (women's skirt).
SPECIALIST ANTHROPOLOGICAL BELIEFS
The Bontoc people, despite mostly having Christian / Catholic beliefs, still emphasize the importance and role of spirits in their daily lives. They believe in ancestral spirits called the anitos, who are honored through various rituals and offerings. These practices are deeply intertwined with their agricultural calendar and community events.
COLLECTION EXAMPLES
Examples of the many Bontoc objects included in the Mercedes Zobel Collection of Indigenous Philippines Textiles and Artifacts are:
