THE APAYAO CULTURAL HERITAGE CORDILLERA 101

Lecture slides

1. APAYAO HERITAGE CORDI 101

2. Historical/Socio-cultural Features

3. Apayao: From Spanish Colonial Rule to a Progressive Future In the 1570s, the mountains of Apayao became a refuge for those seeking solace from foreign influence and social issues. The Spaniards encountered the Apayaos , later known as Isnags , who inhabited the region between Cagayan and Ilocos and were considered infidels. Spanish influence reached the Isnags through the Abulug -Apayao River, leading to the establishment of churches and evangelization efforts by Dominican friars. However, the Isnags resisted Spanish rule, leading to rebellions and conflicts. • Fast forward to the 1900s, Apayao became a sub-province of Cagayan and later became part of the Mountain Province. Significant milestones include the establishment of administrative districts and municipal divisions. During this period, Apayao's unique culture and heritage thrived.

4. • In 1967, the Kalinga-Apayao Province emerged, solidifying Apayao's identity alongside Kalinga. Despite challenges during Martial Law, the Apayao Solidarity Movement played a pivotal role in promoting development and empowering the Apayao people. • In 1995, Apayao became a separate province, ushering in a new era of progress and growth. With dedicated leaders at the helm, Apayao embraced its promising future, focusing on community development and improving the lives of its people. • From its early history under Spanish colonial rule to its present as a vibrant province, Apayao's journey has been marked by resilience, culture, and progress. Today, with visionary leadership and a united community, Apayao continues to forge ahead, building a brighter and more prosperous future for its people.

5. Settlements and Territories

6. Apayao’s Geography Apayao, derived from the Isnag dialect meaning 'river' or 'large body of water,' holds significant importance as a life-giving source for its people and neighboring provinces. Located in the northernmost part of the Cordillera Administrative Region, Apayao spans a vast land area of 4,502.33 square kilometers or 1,738.36 square miles. The province comprises 7 municipalities: Calanasan , Conner, Flora, Kabugao , Luna, Pudtol , and Santa Marcela, encompassing a total of 133 barangays. Apayao is geographically divided into two regions: Upper Apayao and Lower Apayao. Upper Apayao consists of Kabugao , Conner, and Calanasan , covering 67.2% of the province's total land area. This region is characterized by its majestic mountainous terrain, marked by towering peaks, plateaus, and intermittent valleys. In contrast, Lower Apayao, comprising Flora, Luna, Pudtol , and Sta. Marcela, accounts for 32.8% of the land area and features a predominantly flat landscape with rolling mountains and plateaus. Apayao shares its borders with various provinces: Cagayan to the north and east, Ilocos Norte and Abra to the west, and Kalinga to the south. This strategic location provides the province with diverse cultural influences and opportunities for regional collaboration.

7. Peopling and Ethnolinguistic Group

8. The Apayao Cordillerans Nestled in the northernmost tip of the Philippines lies Apayao, a province rich in cultural heritage and unspoiled natural beauty. It is home to the Apayao Cordillerans , an indigenous group with a unique way of life that has been preserved and passed down for centuries. Their customs and traditions are woven into their daily activities, from farming to weaving to music and dance. With a deep reverence for nature, the Apayao Cordillerans have preserved the pristine forests and mountains that surround their communities. As visitors explore the province, they’ll discover a place where ancient rituals blend with modern life, and where the spirit of the Cordillerans continues to thrive.

9. The name " Isnag " is derived from the combination of "is," meaning recede, and " Uneg ," which is an Iloko term for the inner area of inhabitation. The colonizers referred to them as "Los Apayaos / Apayaos ," referring to the river whose banks and nearby rugged terrains were their habitat. Reynolds (1973) mentioned in his research that they were also known as "Los Mandayas " or " Mandayan ," which refers to people living upstream. Researchers made notable observations about the characteristics of Isnags . Sawyer (1900) described the Apayaos as a group residing in the mountainous region around the Apayao River, east of the Cordillera del Norte, extending down towards the plains of Rio Chico. The Apayaos practiced agriculture, growing vegetables and maize for their consumption, while cultivating tobacco and cacao for trading with the Ilocanos. Newson (2009) noted in her studies that the inhabitants of Apayao province were initially known as Apayaos or Mandayas during the early colonial period but were later referred to as Isnegs . In her study, Claveria (2009) mentioned an Isnag settlement named Karagawan , where the residents prefer to identify themselves as Ikaragawan .

10. Isnags are generally described as peaceful people who only resort to violence to avenge wrongs done to them. Smoking tobacco and chewing momma together are activities that imply friendship. In the past, Isnag villages engaged in conflicts with each other, such as Karagawan against the confederation of Dibagat , Alicit , Cumao , Tuyangan , Tubungan , and Baliwanan . Isnags trained their young men to protect their families and territories from attacks, which contributed to their reputation as skilled warriors. Tribal wars and headhunting activities came to an end when Blas Villamor was appointed as a commander of the Philippine Constabulary in Tawit . Villamor's leadership gained popularity among Isnags for being respectful and sensitive to their culture. He acknowledged that Isnag men were annoyed at carrying the baggage of foreign men, as it was a common practice for foreigners visiting the area to hire or assign baggage carriers from the native population. Boday (1991) mentioned that the towns of Calanasan and Kabugao are the only Isnag -dominated areas, while the rest are predominantly inhabited by other ethnic and linguistic groups. Boday also noted that Isnags are classified based on their dialect accents: (1) Mandayas of Calanasan and some parts of Luna and Flora, (2) Mallods of Kabugao , Pudtol , and some parts of Luna, and (3) Nagbuangan of Conner and southern Kabugao . Despite the variations in accents, they are still able to understand and communicate with each other .

11. Language: The Key to Apayao Cordilleran Identity The Apayao Cordillerans , a diverse ethnic group residing in the Cordillera region of the Philippines, are known for their rich linguistic heritage. The primary languages spoken in the region include Isneg (also known as Isnag ), Kalinga, Ibanag , and Ilocano. Isneg is the most widely spoken language among the Apayao Cordillerans , serving as a crucial means of communication within their communities. The Apayao Cordillerans use their language not only to communicate but also to express their history, traditions, and beliefs It is through their language that they are able to pass down their knowledge from one generation to another, ensuring that their identity remains intact. In a world where globalization is fast-paced, it’s essential to recognize the value of maintaining cultural traditions through language.

12. WORLDVIEW

13. Apayao Rituals Major socio-cultural ceremonies among the Isnags are manifested in their strong belief in the existence of spirits in the environment, which influence their way of life. In agricultural parlance, rice cultivation is their primary enterprise. To maximize productivity and mitigate harmful consumption, beliefs and practices associated with this endeavor are observed throughout cultural phases, including land preparation, planting, weeding, pest control, harvesting, and storage.

14. Agricultural Rituals Rice culture or mangoman is a one-year crop cycle that involves land preparation activities such as manatalun , tadaw , and si -dug. The man selects a dagwat to ensure soil fertility and low emergence of weeds, then cuts a small tree or hill or of reeds conspicuous to the others, then places a cross-piece bamboo slats to mean reservation. If he dreams of cocks, rocks, or river wading, he predicts a lucrative venture, if he dreams hairy animals, he predicts prevalence of weeds, and if he dreams kites and fresh meat, hse predicts scarcity of produce and ill-fate among his family members. Magaggi is the process of threshing palay for seed purposes. Si-dug is the act of burning the kaingin commencing from base, and dudu is the act of weeding out early weeds. Magtungo is the actual planting activity, which involves boring a hole with a sagwa and sowing four to six seeds in the hole. Tuna rite is performed by the woman to plant an unthreshed panicle of palay at the lower portion of the atad unseen by others.

15. Major Socio-cultural Ceremonies Say-am holds significant religious importance among the Isnags , serving as the most festive socio-cultural ceremony within their community. Its purposes range from panagsisinningan (family reunion) and thanksgiving to panglagip (anniversary) celebrations. The ritual encompasses two major rites: magaba (mat spreading) and magluhut (mat rolling), occurring before and after key activities like maktugnad (food service), makpenum (wine drinking spree), and makpatalip (native dance). The feast commences with magaba (mat spreading) and concludes with magluhut (mat rolling). The shaman retrieves the inapugan (a set of mamaen ) and rolls the mat for safekeeping. Chants express gratitude to the anito, ancestral spirits who assist in the success of the say-am. This event is also a community affair, known as say-am among the less affluent. Pildap , while not as grand as the aforementioned say-am, involves the slaughter of smaller animals like dogs and chicks. It marks an adult man's first haircut. Often, pildap ceremonies justify butchering a chicken or dog to provide sustenance for community members volunteering for tasks such as farm work, home construction, rice planting, or harvesting.

16. Major Socio-cultural Ceremonies Say-am and pildap are performed by the people to express gratitude to the Almighty for their health, resources, and life, as they share food and provisions. These rituals serve as a means of connecting Isnag community members in both sickness and health, during prosperous and challenging times. Through say-am and pildap , people rekindle friendships, foster solidarity, and collaborate as they dance, dine, and pray together.

17. Magga-Attawa (Marriage) The Isnag marriage ceremony entails liturgical rites as protected by, not only to the contracting parties and their relatives, but to the community, as well, as this institution is guided by norms and sanctions. The woman's side of a marriage benefits materially, but at the expense of her severing ties to her family and the man losing property in exchange for embracing a new family member. However, because they start life with a zero foundation, the newlyweds show themselves to be on the line of barter. Marriage relationships are morally and socially based on harmony; therefore, penalties are placed on the collective pressure to uphold harmony and peace at the expense of the man and woman. This is a manifestation of the Isnag's strong sense of respect and obedience to the common law and agents that implement them.

18. Settlement of Dispute This is a trouble-busting practice based on a prepared and complacent institution of reconciliatory restoration of peace involving arbitrary and material liability. This demonstrates that the Isnags are peace-loving people who grew up in close-knit consanguinity and affinity connections. Community law transcends all other laws, therefore the offender's property and the emotional agony obsessed by the offended are sacrificed and tolerated. This reflects in how they radiate self-sacrifice for the greater good.

19. Treating the Sick As a form of life-preservation, the Isnags are animistic and superstitious, attributing the absence of health to supernatural creatures and objects surrounding them. However, because Lawagan (nature) owns life, medications are thought to be provided for through objects and "gifted" agents known as "specialists." The notion of doing one's best is in the Isnag blood, thus they will try almost any remedy they think is best or what others urge merely to save their lives. This demonstrates the value of life, as time, effort, and property are all lost here

20. Burying the Dead The Isnags are also very ritualistic in burying their dead. Like other cultural minority groups, they also practice indigenous activities in burying their dead. Allang is a coconut tree clear-felling. The coconut tree is the most treasured tree due to its uses. The ubud (bud) is used as an emergency dish for its quality while waiting for a pig to be butchered. It is mahatulug (ill-fated prone) if somebody cuts down a coconut tree without any death. It pre-empts deaths. Ur- ur is the practice of soliciting rice, or in kind for the wake. Bisnag is a thigh-slapping game to console the bereaved family. Mamalu is a spouse is duty bound to cover himself near the dead’s head. He is not supposed to look out or talk with anyone except his family members’ in-law.

21. Burying the Dead Sagsag , if the bereaved family is not economically efficient, sagsag (beheading of a dog followed by sounding the gong and the drum) ensues right away in order to be absent during the wake. In some areas, sagsag goes with panglagip or death anniversary. For economically unstatbel families, sagsag is only done after the interment. This is termed as makkawili . Magabobat is the practice of removing the mourning clothes of the widow/er which is usually donw after a year, or anytime afinal relatives wish. It is the commencement of the panglagip or anniversary. The balu first takes a bath. His clothes are removed by another widower. It is a taboo if married ones do it to pre-empt widowhood. Manglagip is the practice of celebrating the first of the subsequent death anniversaries. It or may not be accompanied by a say-am.

22. General Beliefs and Practices The Isnags observe practically all phenomena as having a bearing on the kind of life they live. Abbit syndrome is the act of the offender to pat or tap one whom he accidentally stepped on, spat or poured water to, and simultaneously says, “ abbit ”. Failure to do so forecasts the offender’s matuluod (ill-fate) and the offender and the offended the center or subject of padahig or blatant accusations. Manglabag is the observance of the movements of any animal of omen whom one encounters on his way to work. Usually, the most symbolic bird of omen is the labag (a red bird with feathery head). In magtagenap or dream-observance, one’s state or condition foreseen by dreams. These serve as premonitions or follow-ups before any activity is undertaken. Good dreams open the door for one who pursues a venture, and bad dreams welches him to abandon it. For example, their when someone dreamt about moon, fresh meat, defecating, flying, airplane, wading in muddy rivers, its foreseen effect is death.

23. General Beliefs and Practices Makkanyaw are abstentions attached to any activity. Transgressions of these may cause uselessness of any endeavor, and may also bring untoward incidents in oneself or any family member. Maganito is a ritual observed to appease and/or beseech the intercession.

24. TECHNOLOGICAL FEATURES

25. Overview The Isnag people possess a rich cultural heritage reflected in their traditional artifacts and attire. Among their prized possessions are antique porcelain jars, which hold immense sentimental value, typically acquired through inheritance or as part of a dowry during local marriage customs known as akit . These exquisite wares, originating from mainland China, were obtained through the barter system or trade in earlier times. Adorned with intricate designs featuring dragons, humans, flowers, and geometric figures, these jars bear names like duduri , garadugud , binilibil , and more. In addition to the precious jars, the Isnag people also have a variety of other valuable antiques, including ceramic bowls, plates, platters, beads, and heirloom objects worn by both men and women. However, these artifacts are rarely seen today due to the indigenous practice of keeping them close to the owner ( tanad ), as it is believed to cleanse the living From guilt or harm. Interestingly, in certain cases, these antiques are even used as a form of payment ( awat ) to settle crimes committed within the Isnag community.

26. Furthermore, the Isnag people have developed an array of traditional tools, devices, and utensils that serve various purposes in their daily lives. From farming and weaving tools such as the aliwa (crescent-shaped bolo) and the head ax ( awatay ) to fishing tools like kawit , manabun , and tangdal , their craftsmanship is evident. They also have a wide range of items for general use, including plates, frying pans, coconut shell containers, mortars, woven baskets, and raincoats. These tools and equipment showcase their ingenuity and resourcefulness in meeting their daily needs Moreover, the Isnag people take pride in their traditional clothing, adornments, and accessories. For women, a key component is the wovsen skirt called aken , embellished with vibrant embroideries. The attire is complemented by a waistlength blouse known as badio , along with accessories like headdresses, belts, and fragrant herb adornments. Men, on the other hand, wear long-sleeved upper garments called bado , paired with loincloths and scarves that signify their social status.

27. CULTURAL PRACTICES AND CUSTOMS

28. The Apayao Cordillerans have a rich tapestry of cultural practices and customs that are deeply ingrained in their way of life. These practices serve as a means of preserving their cultural heritage, strengthening community bonds, and passing down ancestral knowledge to future generations.

29. ORAL TRADITION The Apayao Cordillerans have a strong tradition of oral storytelling, where myths, legends, and folktales are passed down through generations Through these stories, they transmit their history, values, and wisdom, fostering a sense of identity and cultural pride

30. ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP The Apayao Cordillerans have a deep connection to the natural environment and practice sustainable agriculture, forest management, and herbal medicine. These customs reflect their ecological wisdom, respect for nature, and belief in the interconnectedness of all living beings.

31. RITUALS AND CEREMONIES Rituals and ceremonies hold great significance in Apayao Cordilleran culture. Birth, coming of age, marriage, and death are marked by meaningful rituals that involve traditional music, dance, and offerings to ancestral spirits. These rituals help maintain a connection with their ancestors, seek blessings and guidance, and reinforce community cohesion.

32. TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP Skilled artisans specialize in various traditional crafts, such as weaving, woodcarving, basket-making, and metalwork. These crafts are not only practical but also serve as expressions of artistry and cultural identity. The intricate patterns and designs in their crafts reflect their beliefs, stories, and the natural world around them.

33. APAYAO ARCHITECTURE: ISNAG HOUSE AND COMMUNITY

34. Isnag architecture differs significantly from that of the other groups in the Cordillera. The difference lies mainly in the boat-like design of the Isnag house. A typical Isneg house resembles the traditional Isnag boat in some ways.

35. The boat called barangay is made up of three planks: a bottom plank that tapers at both ends and two planks on both ends and two planks on both sides, carved and shaped in such a way as to fit alongside the bottom plank. The roof of the Isneg house suggests an inverted hull, and the floor joists to have the shape of a boat. sides. The Isnag build their family house as close as possible to their uma .

36. Another essential architectural work in Isnag society is the alang (rice granary). Building big granaries remains an important part of the Isneg material culture because in the Cordillera communities, the granary shelters not only the annual harvest of grains but also the benign spirits like the balawan (female granary spirit), which invoked to guard the treasure of food they contain. The contemporary Iyapayao’s granary is small, about four-square meters, but built more solidly than their family house. The structure is elevated three feet above the ground by posts that have a rat guard attached to each. Rituals likewise accompany the building of houses in Apayao. From the initial act of looking for suitable wood in the forest to the final completion of the balai , the Isnag act according to traditional beliefs.

37. A RICH CULTURE IN LANGUAGE, MUSIC, AND DANCE

38. ISNAG LITERATURE The Isnag tribe possesses a rich cultural heritage expressed through various forms of literature. Riddles, known as Banbane -u or Banihu , challenge critical thinking and convey values such as hard work and strong family ties The epic tale of Madalapang explores themes of love, betrayal, and redemption, following the celestial chiefdom of Pindayan ruled by Chieftain Gatan and his family. Panagkaag-agi or Damdamat poems express cultural pride and identity, while Dindinnapuwan proverbs offer wisdom and thought-provoking messages Adages, known as Pagsasao , promote values like hospitality and work ethics. Adodit stories entertain, motivate, and impart moral lessons, reflecting the struggles and virtues of Isnag society. Additionally, folktales and legends depict the ancient people's continuous struggle against the forces of nature, with stories of heroes like Gawan and Gammelayan emerging. Thus, Isnag literature showcases the cultural richness and resilience of the tribe.

39. MUSIC AND DANCES To ease one's stress and express one's perceptions and feelings, the Isnags belt out songs in the form of dissodis , uggayam , ay- ayaw , and other chanted verses. Isnag literature encompasses various forms of songs and verses that express emotions, convey messages, and reflect cultural practices. Disodis are songs that release tensions and share outlooks on life, sung during feasts, solitary moments, and kaingin work rest. Uggayam or patpatang , on the other hand, are conversational songs expressing passions and aspirations, often sung during feasts, marriages, and dispute settlements. Dang-da- ngay or anenas are oratory songs that involve discussions on topics like issues, current events, and history. Pagbabas and pakkaw are heightened verses used to convey advocacies and experiences. Ay-Ayaw is a chant to pay tribute to the deceased, expressing loneliness and lamentation, often sung by children who have lost their parents. These various forms of songs and verses hold cultural significance and serve as means of communication and expression within the Isnag community.

40. MUSIC:A HARMONIOUS TAPESTRY OF TRADITIONAL SOUNDS

41. OVERVIEW The Apayao Cordillerans possess a vibrant musical tradition that weaves together a harmonious tapestry of traditional sounds, reflecting their rich cultural heritage. Rooted in nature and inspired by the surrounding environment, their music showcases diverse styles and instruments that hold deep cultural and symbolic significance.

42. GANGSA The gangsa is a traditional instrument commonly used in Apayao Cordilleran music. It is a set of small, knobbed gongs made of brass or bronze. Each gong produces a distinct pitch, and the ensemble of gangsa creates a rich and melodious sound. The gangsa is played by striking the gongs with wooden beaters, creating rhythmic patterns that form the foundation of Apayao Cordilleran music.

43. KUDYAPI The kudyapi is a stringed instrument that holds a significant place in Apayao Cordilleran music. It is a guitar-like instrument with two or four strings, traditionally made of bamboo or hardwood. The kudyapi produces a warm, resonant sound and is played by plucking or strumming the strings. It serves as both a melodic and accompanying instrument, adding depth and texture to the traditional music of the Apayao Cordillerans

44. NOSE FLUTE The nose flute, known as tumpong , is a unique wind instrument used in Apayao Cordilleran music. It is crafted from a single piece of bamboo and played by blowing air through one’s nostril into the instrument. By using finger holes, different notes can be produced. The nose flute creates hauntingly beautiful melodies that are often used to evoke a connection with nature and ancestral spirits in rituals and ceremonial performances.

45. These traditional instruments of the Apayao Cordillerans form the foundation of their music, creating distinctive sounds that reflect their cultural heritage and traditions.

46. DANCE: EXPRESSIONS OF TRADITION AND BELIEFS

47. OVERVIEW Dance holds deep cultural significance for the Apayao Cordillerans , serving as a powerful form of expression for their traditions, beliefs, and cultural identity. It reflects the cycles of nature, agricultural practices, and ancestral lore, with each dance carrying its own purpose and symbolism.

48. TADEK Tadek is a traditional dance of the Apayao Cordillerans that represents the cycle of rice farming and harvest. The dancers imitate the movements of planting, tending, and harvesting rice, symbolizing the importance of agriculture in their livelihood. The dance is believed to invoke the blessings of their ancestors and nature spirits for a bountiful harvest It reflects the Apayao Cordillerans ’ deep connection with the land and their belief in the spiritual forces that govern agricultural abundance.

49. LAGA Laga is a traditional courtship dance performed by the Apayao Cordillerans . It showcases the graceful movements and gestures of a man and woman in a dance of courtship and love. The dance embodies their beliefs about love, relationships, and the importance of finding a suitable life partner Laga reflects the Apayao Cordillerans ’ reverence for the institution of marriage and their belief in the harmony and balance between masculine and feminine energies.

50. KABINNULIG Kabinnulig is a communal dance that represents unity, cooperation, and solidarity among the Apayao Cordillerans . The dance involves a large group of participants moving in sync, symbolizing the collective strength and harmony of the community. Kabinnulig embodies their belief in the power of working together for the common good, emphasizing the importance of mutual support, collaboration, and social cohesion. The dance serves as a reminder of their shared identity and the resilience that comes from unity.

51. POLITICAL FEATURES

52. OVERVIEW Political machinery pivots along the leadership of a pangmana -man (elder) within a horizontal and lateral family group, either by consangusinity or affinity. There may be four or five families within a cluster or settlement, and the elders from bureaucracy in the promulgation. In this lesson, you will find out the judicial system of the Isnags on how they resolve conflicts and maintains peace and order in the community.

53. Palnah , an indigenous intertribal pact among the Isnags , aims to enhance economic stability, promote social security, and preserve cultural heritage that reflects their distinct ethnic identity ( Aliten n.d.). Administered by the Council of Elders, this traditional peace process resembles the Bodong of Kalinga and Pechen of Mountain Province. Congressman Elias C. Bulut Jr. provides a clearer understanding of the Palnah system in an interview titled 'The Palnah System: A Qualitative Analysis' ( Aliten et. al). He highlights that Palnah is a traditional conflict resolution practice among the Isnag people in Apayao. The process involves democratic principles, with elders reaching compromises acceptable to both parties, guided by the moral law of Alawagan . Palnah agreements address various conflicts, including land disputes, trespassing, forest destruction, and minor offenses. The council of elders listens to both sides and makes recommendations. If fines are agreed upon, both parties share a meal together as a symbol of friendship.

54. While Palnah is the traditional means of resolving conflicts, more serious cases may involve the government's judiciary system. So far, there have been no recalled broken Palnah agreements, but some have lost significance over time. A distinctive feature of Palnah is the natural succession of leadership based on active roles and integrity. Congressman Bulut suggests documenting Palnah agreements formally due to changing values and the need for written commitments. Despite challenges posed by migration, intermarriages, and the absence of mengal (chieftain), Palnah is still practiced in Apayao, and its effectiveness is evident in the lower crime rate. Congressman Bulut encourages migrants in Apayao to learn more about the Isnag culture and the importance of Palnah for peace and development.

55. PUMIYAAN: Conner Conflict Settlement The Municipality of Conner in Apayao province practices conflict settlement known as Pumiyaan , demonstrating government intervention in promoting peace and resolving community conflicts. Conner is a fast-growing community connected to the global society through social media, with a developmental vision emphasizing becoming a prime agro -forestry center and ecotourism destination, fostering a united and self-reliant population respecting cultural diversity Conner is home to eight major tribal groups, each with distinct customary laws and practices, leading to natural conflicts and competitions. To proactively address these issues, the Pumiyaan office was established under the Mayor's Office. Pumiyaan serves as a private semi-government quasi-judicial body, focusing on arbitration and mediation to resolve conflicts, following the Council of Elders system.

56. The Pumiyaan Consultative Council (CPCC) plays a crucial role as a member of the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) of Conner. It is sought after by various entities, including the Barangay Pangkatarungan , Philippine National Police (PNP), Mayor's Office, and Judicial Courts, for its expertise. Established in September 2011 through a Municipal Executive Order, CPCC's members consist of Barangay IPMRs (Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representatives), and it was officially launched in November 2012 during a public hearing at the Conner Gymnasium. When both litigants request an out-of-court settlement, a conflict can be endorsed to Pumiyaan by relevant authorities. Pumiyaan follows a unified tribal customary law, crafted based on the different customary laws of the tribes in Conner. If successful in mediation, the matter is endorsed to the Barangay for enforcement of the agreement. Otherwise, if Pumiyaan fails to resolve the conflict, it is further endorsed to the judicial courts. Pumiyaan has a high likelihood of settling conflicts as parties voluntarily bring matters to them, and most mediations are resolved in one or two sessions. Serving as an arbitration board, Pumiyaan promotes and maintains ancestral and customary laws in settling intra-tribal and inter-tribal conflcts , making it a best practice in conflict resolution ( Maslang , 2017)

57. END OF THE LESSON