Lawmaker urges immediate rectification on Benguet 'cultural misinformation'

BAGUIO CITY — A lawmaker called for immediate correction on a recent vlog that said bu’lols are part of Benguet culture and Aetas come from Itogon.

News personality Karen Davila during her interview with entrepreneur Glenda dela Cruz while touring the latter's property in Itogon, Benguet said the bu’lols are part of Benguet culture while Dela Cruz added they were made by the Aetas in Itogon.

Dela Cruz's assertion raised eyebrows and caused frustration among those familiar with the distinct cultural identities and histories of the various indigenous groups in the Cordillera region. 

“I strongly condemn this incident of an obvious display of misinformation and ignorance.  A certain Ms. Glenda Dela Cruz, while showing off her wealth, showed her cluelessness as well.  She could have said ‘I’m not sure’ pag hindi mo alam, don’t act like you know. It will end up badly. At higit sa lahat, walang masama magtanong rather than pretending that you know about things lalo if it’s as sensitive as culture and beliefs,” said Rep. Eric Go Yap (Benguet, Lone District).

Aetas, known for their rich cultural heritage, predominantly reside in Central Luzon, including the provinces of Zambales, Bataan and Pampanga, and not Benguet or any other parts of the Cordillera. 

The Ifugao bu’lol, on the other hand, is a traditional carved wooden figure that holds significant cultural and spiritual value to the Ifugao people.

The erroneous claim by Dela Cruz underscores the need for vigilance in preserving the authenticity of cultural narratives. 

“The least she could do now is to correct it and admit her mistake. Apologize for the ignorance. Next time, it wouldn't hurt kung magreresearch muna bago magsalita nang hindi sigurado sa isang malawak na platform,” Yap added.  

Indigenous communities in the Philippines have long faced challenges in maintaining their cultural identity in the face of modernization and external influences. 

Misrepresentations, whether intentional or accidental, has been undermining efforts to honor and preserve these communities' rich histories as local historians and cultural advocates are being urged to engage in proactive measures to safeguard the integrity of Cordilleran heritage.

The solon also clarified that Alphaland Mountain Lodges is not located in Baguio City, but in Itogon, Benguet. 

“Also, while we're at it, let us correct the notion that the Alphaland Mountain Lodges is in Baguio City, it is not. While I understand that it is for their marketing purposes, it is about time to acknowledge that it is located within the natural beauty of the Itogon mountains. It is in Benguet,” Yap pointed out.