The Igorot, indigenous peoples inhabiting the Cordillera Administrative region of Luzon in the Philippines, have rich and unique customs surrounding death and dying that reflect their deep connection to nature, community, and ancestral spirits. There are several groups within the Igorot, and the customs vary among them. We are exploring just an overview of some of their customs, journeying into the heart of Igorot culture to uncover the intricate rituals and beliefs that guide them through the passage of death.
Ancestral Beliefs
Central to Igorot death customs is the belief in ancestral spirits, known as “anitos,” who continue to watch over and guide the living. Death is seen as a transition to the spirit world, where the deceased join their ancestors in the afterlife.
Rituals of Passage
When a member of the Igorot community passes away, elaborate rituals are performed to guide their spirit to the next life. These rituals often involve prayers, chants, and offerings to appease the spirits and ensure a peaceful journey for the departed soul.
Wake and Vigil
Similar to other Filipino cultures, some Igorot families hold wakes where the deceased’s body is laid in state for several days. Family and community members gather to pay their respects, offer condolences, and participate in traditional rituals.
Sangadil
A unique Igorot tradition, Sangadil involves washing and clothing the deceased in their best attire and then sitting them in a wooden chair. This act symbolizes their connection to this world before moving on to the afterlife. Once the body is dried, it is turned sideways in the fetal position. Mourners gather around to join this tradition and pay their respects. This custom can last for several days. However, the Sangadil tradition has slowly eroded, making way for more Western-style funerals.
Funeral Processions
On the funeral day, the community accompanies the deceased to their final resting place. The procession is often led by elders and community leaders, followed by family members and mourners carrying offerings and symbolic items.
Burial Practices
Igorot burial customs vary depending on the sub-tribe and location. Some Igorot groups practice above-ground burials in wooden coffins placed in caves or hanging coffins suspended on cliffs, while others opt for ground burials in communal or family graveyards.
Cultural Symbols and Offerings
Throughout the funeral and burial process, various cultural symbols and offerings honor the deceased and enable their journey to the afterlife. These may include food, wine, clothing, and personal belongings that hold significance to the departed.
Continued Ancestral Veneration
Even after burial, the Igorot continue to honor their ancestors through rituals and ceremonies, where offerings are made at the gravesite to appease the spirits and seek their blessings.
Community Support and Solidarity
The death of a community member is seen as a collective loss, and the entire community comes together to provide support and assistance to the grieving family. This spirit of solidarity strengthens social bonds and reinforces the interconnectedness of Igorot society.
Legacy and Remembrance
Above all, Igorot death customs emphasize the importance of preserving and honoring the legacy of the departed. Through rituals, ceremonies, and storytelling, the memories of loved ones are kept alive, ensuring they are never forgotten.
Death and dying customs among the Igorot people in the Philippines are steeped in tradition, spirituality, and reverence for the cycle of life. These traditions offer solace to the grieving and reflect the enduring cultural heritage and strength of the Igorot community.
Reflections on the Final Farewell 