Cordillera Autonomous Region

Isneg lived in the northwesterly end of northern Luzon, in the upper half of Cordillera Province known as Kalinga-Apayao. Isneg oral tradition is rich with folk riddles. Many of these are structurally simple but elegant. One of the most popular literary works of the Isneg was the story of “The Judge and the Fly”. Some characteristic of the Isneg reflected in this story. It shows that Isneg were kind, hospitable and generous, possessed with the spirit of self-reliance and courage and clearly artistic in their temperament. The story is humorous and entertaining which explains relationship of people and their surroundings.

Abra occupies the western portion of the Cordillera Region in northerh Luzon. The early inhabitants were the Tingguian, or Itneg, as they are also known. One of their literary works was entitled, “The Great Tingguian Flood Myth”. It shows how Abrans believe in ancient and supernatural spirits.

Ifugao refers to the group of people living in Ifugao Province located in the central Cordillera mountains of Northern Luzon.The Ifugao have riddles which serve to entertain at the same time to educate the young. The Hudhud was recognized as a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity”. The story “Hudhud Hi Aliguyon” shows the braveness of the Ifugaos. As Aliguyon and Pumbakhayon end their battle, it shows how they appreciate and respect each other, and how they admire each other’s talent.

Bontoc refers to the people of the Mountain Province. It is derived from two morphemes, “bun” (heap) and “tuk” (top). Together it means mountain. Bontoc social literature aims to communicate ideas or attitudes to others at certain social occasions. “Lumawig: Bontoc’s God and Culture Hero” was one of their literary work. It shows how adventurous Lumawig was, and it also reflects some religious practices, social history and morals of the Bontocs.

Kankanays are the third largest cultural community in the Mountain Province. “Kankanay”, also “Kankanai”, “Kankana-I” or “Kankana-ey” has no different etymological derivation. The Kankanay have a rich collection of riddles and epics. They have the Sudsud (short talks) which are recounted in gathering of adults or when they are working in the field. One of the short tales of Kankanay was the “Origin of Thunder and Lightning”. The main content of this story refers to marriage and family life. Another short tale was the “Origin of Human Race”. It shows the social custom, traditions, religious values, beliefs and practices.

Kalinga comes from the common noun “kalinga”, which means “enemy”, “fighter” or “head hunter” in the Ibanag and Gaddang languages. Kalinga literature also consists of riddles, legends, chanted or sung myths, epics or ballads. “Adventures of Banna” was one of the literary works from Kalinga. This story reflects the bravery and pride of Kalinga people, and the heroic exploits of their heroes.