For many Filipinos, death is not the end when it comes to relating with their relatives and loved ones. And the Ilocanos, the third largest ethnolinguistic group in the Philippines are no exception. Through the elaborate ritual of the “atang,” Ilocanos have their own unique way of honoring their dead.
The Ilocano Ritual of “Atang” is known as a food offering that is intended to drive away evil and malevolent spirits. It plays an important role in Ilocano culture, as Ilocanos generally believe that there are spirits who live among us, either of the dead or of other worlds who need to be appeased whenever they are disturbed or offended.
Dive into the Philippines’ intangible cultural heritage!
Leave a Reply