A Sacrifice in the Mountains of the Philippines (The Tradition of Caao)

We were invited to witness a Caao by Omar, a member of the Ibaloi community. Caao is a general term used to describe traditional thanksgiving rituals or festivities across the Cordilleras. The term caao and its practice (including the attendant food and symbolisms) may vary from one indigenous community to another.

As an open event with no guest list, the generosity of the community shines through during a caao. It is believed that the more generous one is, the more Kabunian and the spirits of the ancestors will be pleased, resulting in favor especially for the host family.

The ritual showcases the Indigenous Peoples high regard for spirituality, honoring their ancestors, sharing ones blessings with the community, and taking in the simple joys of lifea time-honored tradition that has existed long before the colonizers reached the highlands.

It is an integral part of the unique Cordilleran identity. This documentary hopes to spread the importance of ancient traditions as this is what connects us Filipinos to our roots. Stay tuned for the second part of this sacred ceremony on our next video.

Special thanks to:
Joemar Molintas Mayomis
Cindy Catalino Mayomis
Agosto Placido Amoyong
Arthur Olchino

Maria Catbagan-Aplaten, Cultural Worker. Founder/ Exec Dir. Hapiyoh Mi Culture and Arts Center, Inc.
Chef Laarni Andam
Mr. Gaston P. Kibiten, Museum Curator, SLU Museum of Igorot Cultures and Arts

Chavi Romawac
Millie-Kesner Romawac
Pil-od Acop Ano

Other References:
Ibaloi Caao: A Story Journal by Maila Buaquen-Alog, Published 2021
PhilRice, Department of Agriculture Philippine Rice Institute

For orders of Pinuneg and other Cordilleran meats, visit CuisiNigz on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CuisiNigz

For orders, contact Omar at 0966 260 3411

Jump to:
(0:00) Intro
(0:50) What is Caao?
(3:55) The Ritual
(15:53) The Feast, Outro
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The Fat Kid Inside Studios

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