COMMUNITIES
AETA, MAPORAC
The Aeta (also spelled ‘Ayta’) are a group of people indigenous to the Philippines. They are distinct in appearance as they have much darker skin, kinky hair, and are of shorter stature. They speak a language called Zambal, and are known for their skills in hunting and forest survival. The colonisation of the Philippines by Spain in the 1700s prompted the Aeta to move from the lowlands to the mountains to avoid conflict. The Aeta of Zambales lived on the slopes of the then-dormant Mt. Pinatubo, until the catastrophic eruption in 1991. Once again displaced, they relocated to Cabangan, where they are to this day.
Their lifestyle and beliefs are intimately connected to the land. Hunting, foraging, and farming is central to their way of life and the primary means of providing for their family and community. Read More
A traditional diet would have consisted of wild tuberous plants, palm hearts, and wild fruits. Medicinal cures are made from plants found in the forest. As a form of respect, offerings are made to Apo Namalyari through atang when there is good harvest or a successful hunt. The Aeta nowadays eat a mixture of foods found or hunted in the wild and also grown from their farms. Read More.
The Aeta traditionally practice animism - Apo Namalyari, or the Great Protector, resides at Mt. Pinatubo. Bodies of water like Te-yern and Hobol are in tribute to Apo Balandang, who protects the forest. Such places are sacred.
Education is believed to be a way to empower the Aeta youth. Parents work hard to send their children to school as it is their hope that the future generations will become increasingly educated and in turn have access to more opportunities and resources. The youth feel the same way, knowing that they can eventually give back to the community and provide for the family if they have a good job. Read More.