Getting tattooed has become a trend here in the Philippines. But tattoo enthusiasts do not simply get tattooed to follow a fad, they get tattooed to commemorate an important event or person, to express themselves, to preserve their culture, or to imprint something that is significant in their life. If you are looking for a meaningful tattoo with historical and cultural significance, then getting tattooed by Apo Whang-Od in the Philippines should definitely be on your bucket list.
Apo Whang-Od is the oldest traditional tattoo artist in the world and has been practicing her craft for decades. She is also the first woman to become a tattoo artist in her tribe known as the But-but Tribe located in Buscalan, Kalinga in the mountain range of Northern Philippines. Apo Whang-Od is a famous woman in the Philippines known as the last ‘mambabatok’ or Kalinga tattooist. She makes these intricate tattoos and having to be tattooed by her is a dream come true! Her tattoos are not just decorative designs, they also reflect the tribe’s customs, beliefs, and rituals.
To get a tattoo from Apo Whang-Od is not just about getting inked on your skin, but also about experiencing the Kalinga culture. You have to make a journey to Buscalan, a remote village nestled in the mountains of Kalinga, to meet Apo Whang-Od. You have to wait in line though, because people are flocking to see this legendary women and to get inked by Apo Whang-Od. The journey going to where she is located is an adventure in itself that includes a hike through the stunning rice terraces, crossing rivers, and trekking up to the village. The trek itself can take up to three hours depending on your fitness level, but the breathtaking view of the mountains and the sound of the river make it an unforgettable travel experience.
Once you have reached the village, you will be welcomed by the warmth of the Kalinga people. You will have the opportunity to observe and learn about their customs and beliefs, such as the ‘budong’ or peace pact, a traditional way of resolving conflicts. You will also witness traditional dances, taste some local delicacies, and sleep in a traditional Kalinga hut.
The highlight of this travel experience is getting tattooed by Apo Whang-Od herself, which makes the tiring journey worth it. Her tattoos are not just designs drawn from a stencil, but are meticulously hand-tapped using her traditional wooden thorns, charcoal, and water. The process itself is painful, but it’s worth the experience of getting a tattoo that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also has a deep cultural significance.
Getting tattooed by Apo Whang-Od is not just about adding a design to your skin, but it’s also about embarking on a cultural journey that tattoo enthusiasts and Filipinos will never forget. You get to witness the beauty of the Kalinga Mountain Province, experience a slice of its traditions, and meet its people. It is a unique opportunity to gain an appreciation and understanding of a different way of life. By supporting Apo Whang-Od’s artistic traditions, you become part of preserving and promoting her culture to the rest of the world. It’s not just a tattoo, but a meaningful connection to the past and present of the Kalinga tribe and the Filipino people.
