We were invited to witness a Cañao by Omar, a member of the Ibaloi community. Cañao is a general term used to describe traditional thanksgiving rituals or festivities across the Cordilleras. The term cañao 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 cañao. 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 one’s blessings with the community, and taking in the simple joys of life–a 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 Cañao: 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:   / cuisinigz  

For orders, contact Omar at 0966 260 3411

Jump to:
(0:00) Intro
(0:50) What is Cañao?
(3:55) The Ritual
(15:53) The Feast, Outro
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We are looking for collaborators, content producers, brands, and anyone who has a story to tell. Email us at [email protected]

The Fat Kid Inside Studios

Erwan Heussaff - Founder
Kashka Gaddi - Content Producer
Eamonn Quizon - Cinematographer
Edel Cayetano - Story Producer
Harold Singzon - Story Producer
Mary Lournette Baligod - Story Producer
Kleo Balares - Editorial Producer
Hans Rivera - Multimedia Producer
Julius Rivera - Camera Operator
Steven Sune - Editor
Lorraine Santos - Editor
Dana Blaze - Editor
Ivan Christian Cocjin - Editor
Martin Narisma - Food Editor
Kathryna de Bustos - Content Manager
Chester Velasco - Production Assistant
Kevin Amponin - Production Assistant
Dustin Dagamac - Colorist
Sofia Paderes - Graphic Designer
Kim Manuel - Graphic Designer
Roanne Salvacion - Accountant
Donalyn Aranda - Accounting Assistant
Interns:
Patricia Beatrice Te Seng

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