Gaddang Legacy in Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya

 

Roger Whigan of San Geronimo Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya was motivated to join the Gaddang organization because he wants to established Gaddang lineage and to be recognized not only here in Bagabag but even to the whole world. The municipal Federation of Bagabag Gaddang Indigenous People Organization was established to preserve, to promote, and enhance the Gaddang dialect.

Traditional attire for Gaddang women includes the tapis, a lengthy piece of cotton cloth around the waistline down to his knees, and a long-sleeved, round-necked collarless and waist-length blouse. The cloth used for these costumes is woven by the women themselves from 100 % cotton textiles and dyed in bright natural colors.  An upper collarless, short clothing may also be worn, together with handkerchiefs. Today, most Gaddang use skirts, trousers, and dresses for everyday wear and preserve the traditional attire for ceremonies and other formal occasions.

Tattooing is common to both men and women, with designs imprinted on their arms, legs, and fingers. The men have theirs on the breast. Being tattooed assures them passage to heaven. They used a sharp knife to cut an inch above the eyebrows and continuing in a straight line back along with each temple and end above each ear.

The officers of Gaddang organization had the resolution to have a project such as to conduct vigil about the rosary, and the bible to translate into the Gaddang language. Recently filming Jesus Christ dubbing to add dialogue with Gaddang language which already started in the year 2007 and hopefully, they can preview screening the film next year.