Likhang Mangyan

Posted August 14, 2024

As part of the Mangyan Heritage Center’s mission to revitalize the rich cultural practices of the Mangyans, artisans are now hand-embroidering various elaborate versions of the Hanunuo Mangyan pakudos symbol onto their traditional blouses (linggon) and shirts (balukas). Historically, the pakudos symbol was believed to ward off evil spirits.

For inquiries about Mangyan handwoven fabrics and handicrafts, please send us a direct message.

International Day 
of the World's Indigenous Peoples

Posted August 9, 2024

August 9 is the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, also observed as National Indigenous Peoples Day here in the Philippines—a day to celebrate and raise awareness of the rich cultural heritage and rights of indigenous communities worldwide. 

In the Philippines, there are around 110 ethnolinguistic groups, with the island of Mindoro being home to eight distinct indigenous cultural communities, commonly referred to as Mangyan. Each group has its own distinct cultural traditions and languages.

Join us in celebrating the Mangyan and recognizing their priceless contribution to the rich tapestry of Filipino cultural heritage. Discover more about their traditions and heritage at Mangyan Heritage Center. 

Cultural Practices of the Umayamnon

Posted May 20, 2024

Following their visit to the Oriental Mindoro Heritage Museum, 24 college students from Mindoro State University's Main Campus, coming from the different ethnolinguistic groups in Mindoro, had the enriching opportunity to hear Joel Dewangan, a Jesuit volunteer assigned at the Mangyan Heritage Center, as he shared with them the cultural practices of the Umayamnon ethnolinguistic group in  Bukidnon, and the role of the Umayamnon youth organization in keeping alive their cultural traditions.

Emily Catapang, the Executive Director of the MHC, also shared with the students about the organization's services and programs, emphasizing the importance of revitalizing Mangyan cultural practices. She encouraged the students to utilize the MHC's library services for Mangyan-related researches, fostering deeper understanding and appreciation of their heritage.

The MinSU students were accompanied by Ms. Heidelita Bumohya, guidance counselor and Ms. Grace Mendoza, guidance associate.

The MHC extends its sincere appreciation to the Oriental Mindoro Heritage Museum for generously providing its conference room for the session.