“ Ifugao”.pdf

The term "Ifugao" refers to a group of people living in Ifugao province, located in the central Cordillera mountains of northern Luzon. The Ifugao inhabit a rugged and mountainous area, covering about 1,942.5 square kilometers, with 10 municipalities and 154 barangays. They are subdivided into major subgroups and have a distinct language, with a population that grew from 126,000 in 1918 to 230,495 in 1986. The Ifugao have a rich history, having resisted Spanish domination for two centuries, and later interacting with American troops, who introduced new realities and eliminated the practice of headtaking. The American presence initiated gradual adaptation, with the Ifugao adopting new customs, such as wearing Constabulary uniforms, and participating in formal education and economic activities. The Ifugao played a significant role in World War II, sheltering guerrillas and keeping silent about their presence despite Japanese efforts to extract information. After the war, Ifugao families returned to their normal lives, maintaining their distinct identity and culture.