In 2007,I went to Tublay, Benguet where some of my ancestors originated. I photographed traditional Ibaloy burial practices. The wake was for my grandfather’s cousin Anas Bondong who was 86 years old. There were relatives and clan members who traveled from nearby provinces like Nueva Viscaya to pay their last respects.
There was Lolo Lorenzo, who had come to make sure the burial was proper. He had left this place a long time ago and sought his own fortune in a different province. It was a sort of a homecoming for him, I guess, though I never asked.
It was also a familiar setting for me even if i had grown in the city and have since then been based in Manila. The people were family, the rituals the same as I remember from when i was small and my father would bring us to clan gatherings so we would not be ignorant of Ibaloy ways. I felt right at home. In a sense, I too had come home again
Photos taken in Tublay, Benguet. 2007
Relatives and neighbors butcher pigs to be served during the wake. Wakes for Ibaloys would usually have a minimum of 4 days depending on the last wishes of the departed.
Pinewood is abundant in this part of Benguet. Coffins are still made from pine by the local carpenters.
Ibaloy families are asked to eat beside their dear departed. Other relatives and neighbors eat nearby.
The coffin is finally made.
Gambling is acceptable during the wake. It is also to keep the grieving family company and some of the winnings are also donated to the family.
Relatives and friends hand over their own “ufo” or donation to the family. The departed is usually asked to bring with him/her the donations and in turn , hand it over to the dead relatives of those who had given the donation.
The women laugh and share stories of days gone by. A wake is not always about sadness.
Lolo Lorenzo is the youngest brother. He came home to see to the burial of his eldest brother. That is how Ibaloys continue their culture and keep their traditions alive.
Condoling with the widow.
