STI WEST NEGROS UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM (TOUR 1009)

I. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF HIGAONON TRIBE OF MISAMIS ORIENTAL,

BUKIDNON, AGUSAN DEL SUR, AGUSAN DEL NORTE, AND LANAO
DEL NORTE.

The Higaonon described as

“people of living mountains” and
“people of the wilderness” are
one of the lumads (indigenous
peoples) in the mountainous
areas of Northern Mindanao in
southern Philippines, who have
resisted assimilation or acculturation, with their traditional systems, practices, beliefs
remaining relatively intact (Tripeople Consortium for Peace, Progress and Development
in Mindanao, 1998).
They have continuously lived as an organized community on communally bounded and
defined territory, and have, under claims of ownership since time immemorial,
possessed customs, traditions and
other distinctive cultural traits. They are one of the indigenous people (IPs) recognized
as the true natives of the islands, who at one time occupied and controlled a substantial
portion of Mindanao and Sulu archipelago (Tripeople Consortium for Peace, Progress
and Development in Mindanao, 1998).
Mercado (1998) has argued that unlike the early IPs who embraced Christianity, the
lumads have retained their original primal religion because they refused to accept either
Islam or Christianity at the early times of colonization. Though a Christian sect
penetrated the communities in Bukidnon in 2007 and baptized at least 50 members
from a tribe in Kagahuman area, these members still practice their original religion
while at the same time joining weekly worship with their Christian group.
One of the indigenous practices that the Higaonons have retained up to this day is their
system of conflict resolution, locally called paghusay (meaning “to settle”). With its tribal
council composed of a Supreme Datu (chieftain), 11 delegates, 3 baes (women
delegates), and 25 alimaong (tribal police), they resolve all kinds of conflicts as long as
they take place within their jurisdiction. Cases that reach the tribal authorities for
possible resolution include thievery, fighting, murder, misunderstandings, adultery, land
conflicts, contempt against rituals and conflicts involving rebels. The ability of the
Higaonon to effectively solve internal conflicts has led to them being described as a
genuinely peace loving community and the “weavers of peace“.
STI WEST NEGROS UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM (TOUR 1009)

II. CATEGORIZATION/CULTURAL TRAITS

The Higaonon tribe's cultural traits can be categorized as both tangible and
intangible, reflecting their rich heritage and deep connection to their ancestral lands.

Tangible Cultural Traits:

• Hinabol Weaving: This traditional handwoven textile is a tangible expression of their
artistic skill and cultural identity. The vibrant colors and unique patterns often reflect
the weaver's emotions and are used to create garments, bags, and other items.
• Traditional Homes: Their homes, often built with wood and bamboo, are a tangible
representation of their architectural knowledge and adaptation to their mountainous
environment.
• Tools and Implements: The tools used for farming, hunting, fishing, and daily life are
tangible evidence of their ingenuity and resourcefulness.
• Music and Dance: Musical instruments like the kulintang and agong are tangible
artifacts that accompany their traditional dances, which are expressions of their cultural
celebrations and storytelling.
• Ceremonial Objects: Objects used in rituals and ceremonies, like the "kamuyot"
(backpack) or the "ginuntiyan" (sacred pattern in weaving) are tangible symbols of their
spiritual beliefs and practices.

Intangible Cultural Traits:

• Bunkatol ha Bulawan daw nang ka tasa ha lana: This code of conduct translates to
"treasured unity of love and peace" and embodies their strong emphasis on harmony,
cooperation, and peaceful conflict resolution.
• Tampudas hu bala gun: This ancient ritual, also known as the "Treaty of the Green Vine
Branch," symbolizes the cutting of disputes between ethnic groups and highlights their
commitment to peacemaking.
• Ancestor Worship: They hold deep respect for their ancestors and believe in their
continued presence and influence. Rituals and offerings are performed to honor them
and seek their guidance.
• Oral Traditions: Storytelling, songs, and proverbs are passed down through generations,
preserving their history, values, and knowledge.
• Spiritual Beliefs: Their belief system centers around a connection to nature, the spirits of
their ancestors, and the creator god "Mag Babaya."
STI WEST NEGROS UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM (TOUR 1009)

• Social Organization: Their communities are structured around kinship ties and a system
of leadership based on respect, consensus, and the role of the "datu" (chieftain).

The Higaonon tribe's cultural traits are a blend of tangible and intangible elements that are
interconnected and contribute to their unique identity and way of life. Their traditions and
practices are deeply rooted in their ancestral lands, spiritual beliefs, and social values.
Protecting and preserving both the tangible and intangible aspects of their culture is essential
for their continued survival and for the richness of Philippine heritage.

III. POSSIBLE LIVELIHOODS

The Higaonon tribe's rich cultural heritage offers a foundation for sustainable
and culturally-sensitive livelihood opportunities. Here are some possibilities based on their
unique traits:

1. Weaving and Crafts:

• Hinabol Weaving: The Higaonon are renowned for their intricate "hinabol" weaving.
Promoting and expanding their weaving skills through workshops, marketing initiatives,
and fair trade partnerships can provide economic opportunities while preserving this
traditional art form.
• Traditional Crafts: Other traditional crafts like basketry, pottery, and wood carving can
be developed into sustainable livelihoods. Supporting the production and marketing of
these crafts through communitybased enterprises can generate income and preserve
cultural knowledge.

2. Ecotourism:

• Cultural Immersion Experiences: The Higaonon's unique culture, traditions, and spiritual
beliefs offer a compelling tourism experience. Developing culturally sensitive
ecotourism initiatives that involve the community, such as guided tours, cultural
performances, and traditional knowledge sharing, can provide income while respecting
their traditions.
• Nature-Based Activities: Their ancestral lands are rich in biodiversity and natural beauty.
Promoting activities like hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography can attract
tourists and provide economic opportunities while emphasizing the importance of
conservation.

3. Sustainable Agriculture and Forest Products:

STI WEST NEGROS UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM (TOUR 1009)

• Agroecology: The Higaonon's traditional knowledge of sustainable agriculture and their

deep connection to nature can be harnessed for agroecological practices. Promoting
organic farming, permaculture, and agroforestry techniques can enhance food security,
conserve biodiversity, and provide income.
• Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs): The Higaonon have extensive knowledge of
medicinal plants, rattan, bamboo, and other NTFPs. Developing sustainable harvesting
and marketing strategies for these products can generate income while preserving
biodiversity and traditional knowledge.

4. Community-Based Resource Management:

• Forest Guardians: The Higaonon's deep connection to their forests and their
commitment to conservation can be leveraged through community-based forest
management initiatives. Training them as forest guardians and providing them with the
resources to monitor and protect their ancestral lands can contribute to sustainable
forest management and provide income.
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: The Higaonon's traditional knowledge of wildlife and their respect
for nature can be used to establish and manage wildlife sanctuaries. This can attract
tourists and provide income while promoting biodiversity conservation.
5. Cultural Preservation and Education:

• Language Revitalization: Supporting the revitalization of the Higaonon language through

education programs, community workshops, and documentation initiatives can
preserve their cultural heritage and provide income for language teachers and cultural
practitioners.
• Cultural Heritage Tourism: Developing cultural heritage tourism initiatives that
showcase their traditions, music, dance, and storytelling can provide income for cultural
performers and educators.

Key Considerations:
• Community Ownership: All livelihood initiatives should be driven by the Higaonon
community, ensuring their participation in decision-making, benefit sharing, and
cultural preservation.
• Sustainable Practices: Livelihoods should be based on sustainable practices that protect
their ancestral lands, natural resources, and cultural heritage.
• Market Access: Providing access to fair markets for their products and services is crucial
for the success of these initiatives.
STI WEST NEGROS UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM (TOUR 1009)

The Higaonon tribe's cultural traits offer a wealth of opportunities for sustainable and culturally-
sensitive livelihoods. By supporting their initiatives, we can contribute to their economic well-
being, cultural preservation, and the protection of their ancestral lands.

IV. STATE OF TOURISM

The state of tourism in the Higaonon tribe's ancestral lands is a complex and
multifaceted issue. While tourism can offer potential economic benefits, it also poses
significant risks to their cultural identity, environment, and way of life.

Current State of Tourism:

• Emerging Destination: The Higaonon's ancestral lands are becoming
increasingly popular tourist destinations, particularly for ecotourism and cultural
immersion experiences. However, tourism development in these areas is still in
its early stages, and there is a lack of comprehensive planning and regulation.
• Extractive Industries: The Higaonon face pressure from extractive industries like
mining and logging, which are often promoted as drivers of economic growth but
can have devastating impacts on their environment and cultural heritage. These
industries often operate without adequate consultation with indigenous
communities, leading to land grabbing, displacement, and environmental
degradation.
• Lack of Community Control: The Higaonon have limited control over tourism
development in their ancestral lands. This lack of control can lead to exploitation,
cultural appropriation, and the commodification of their traditions.

Impacts on the Higaonon Tribe:

• Economic Benefits: Tourism can provide economic opportunities for the
Higaonon through employment in tourism-related businesses, cultural
performances, and the sale of traditional crafts. However, these benefits are
often unevenly distributed, and the Higaonon may not receive a fair share of the
profits.
• Cultural Appropriation: Tourism can lead to the commodification and
misrepresentation of Higaonon culture. Tourists may be exposed to a sanitized
or superficial version of their traditions, which can erode their cultural integrity
and authenticity.
• Environmental Degradation: Tourism can contribute to environmental
degradation through pollution, habitat destruction, and the introduction of
invasive species. This can have a devastating impact on the Higaonon's
traditional way of life, which is deeply intertwined with their natural environment.
STI WEST NEGROS UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM (TOUR 1009)

• Loss of Traditional Knowledge: Tourism can lead to the erosion of traditional

knowledge and practices. As the Higaonon become increasingly integrated into
the globalized tourism industry, they may lose their connection to their ancestral
knowledge systems and cultural values.
• Social Disruption: Tourism can lead to social disruption and cultural clashes. The
influx of tourists can disrupt traditional social structures and create tensions
between the Higaonon and outsiders.

Future Implications:
• Sustainable Tourism: The Higaonon need to be actively involved in the planning
and management of tourism in their ancestral lands to ensure that it is
sustainable and benefits their community. This requires a shift from mass
tourism to community-based tourism, which emphasizes cultural sensitivity,
environmental protection, and equitable benefit sharing.
• Cultural Preservation: The Higaonon need to actively preserve their cultural
heritage through education, language revitalization, and the promotion of
traditional arts and crafts. This will help them maintain their cultural identity in the
face of tourism pressures.
• Land Rights: The Higaonon need to secure their land rights to protect their
ancestral lands from exploitation by extractive industries and unsustainable
tourism development. This requires strong legal frameworks and the recognition
of their customary land tenure systems.

The state of tourism in the Higaonon tribe's ancestral lands is a complex and
challenging issue. While tourism offers potential economic opportunities, it also poses
significant risks to their cultural identity, environment, and way of life. The Higaonon
need to be empowered to control tourism development in their ancestral lands and
ensure that it is sustainable, culturally sensitive, and benefits their community.

V. SUGGESTIONS/PROPPOSALS
Tourism development in the Higaonon's ancestral lands should be
approached with a focus on cultural sensitivity, community empowerment, and
sustainability. This will ensure that tourism benefits the Higaonon community while
preserving their rich heritage. Here are some suggestions/proposals:

1. Community-Led Tourism:
STI WEST NEGROS UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM (TOUR 1009)

• Indigenous Ownership and Control: Tourism initiatives should be primarily owned

and managed by the Higaonon community. This ensures that their cultural
values, priorities, and interests are reflected in all aspects of tourism
development.
• Participatory Planning: The Higaonon community should be actively involved in
all stages of tourism planning, from identifying potential tourism activities to
developing marketing strategies. This ensures that tourism aligns with their
aspirations and respects their cultural sensitivities.
• Benefit Sharing: A fair and equitable system for sharing tourism benefits with the
Higaonon community should be established. This could include profit sharing
from tourism enterprises, employment opportunities, and investments in
community development projects.

2. Cultural Immersion Experiences:

• Authenticity and Respect: Tourism activities should focus on authentic cultural

experiences that respect Higaonon traditions and values. This could include: o
Guided tours: Led by Higaonon guides who can share their knowledge of
traditional practices, stories, and beliefs.
o Cultural performances: Showcasing traditional music, dance, and
storytelling.
o Traditional crafts workshops: Allowing tourists to learn and participate in
Higaonon crafts like weaving, basketry, and pottery.
o Homestays: Providing opportunities for tourists to experience Higaonon
hospitality and learn about their daily life.
• Cultural Interpretation: Tourism activities should be accompanied by
comprehensive cultural interpretation to ensure that tourists understand the
significance of the experiences they are engaging in. This can help prevent
cultural appropriation and promote respect for Higaonon traditions.

3. Sustainable Practices:
• Environmental Protection: Tourism development should prioritize environmental
protection and sustainability. This could include:
o Eco-friendly practices: Promoting sustainable tourism practices like waste
reduction, water conservation, and responsible wildlife viewing.
o Conservation initiatives: Incorporating conservation efforts into tourism
activities, such as reforestation projects, wildlife monitoring, and
community-based forest management.
STI WEST NEGROS UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM (TOUR 1009)

o Ecotourism: Developing ecotourism activities that showcase the

Higaonon's connection to nature and their traditional knowledge of
sustainable resource management.
• Community Development: Tourism development should contribute to community
development by investing in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other
essential services. This ensures that tourism benefits the entire community, not
just a select few.

4. Marketing and Promotion:

• Collaborative Marketing: Tourism marketing should be done in collaboration with
the Higaonon community to ensure that their voices and perspectives are
represented.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Marketing materials should be culturally sensitive and avoid
stereotypes or misrepresentations of Higaonon culture.
• Responsible Travel: Tourism promotion should emphasize responsible travel
practices, encouraging tourists to respect local customs, traditions, and the
environment.

5. Capacity Building:
• Training and Education: The Higaonon community should be provided with
training and education opportunities in tourism management, hospitality, cultural
interpretation, and sustainable practices. This will empower them to participate
actively in tourism development and benefit from its economic opportunities.

6. Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Regular Evaluation: Tourism development should be regularly monitored and

evaluated to assess its impact on the Higaonon community, the environment,
and the local economy. This will ensure that tourism remains sustainable and
benefits the community in the long term.

Tourism development in the Higaonon's ancestral lands can be a powerful tool for
economic empowerment and cultural preservation. By prioritizing community
ownership, cultural sensitivity, sustainability, and capacity building, tourism can become
a force for good, ensuring that the Higaonon tribe benefits from tourism while
preserving their unique heritage for generations to come.

VI. REFERENCES
https://www.oxfordresearchgroup.org.uk/blog/weavers-of-peace-the-higaonon-tribe-in-the-
philippines https://prezi.com/p/vypufxkw5uxu/higaonon-tribe/
STI WEST NEGROS UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM MANAGEMENT
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM (TOUR 1009)

https://medium.com/heroesandfriends/this-is-the-story-of-the-higaonon-tribe-in-the-philippines-
48c3444a0c8
https://www.studocu.com/ph/document/davao-oriental-state-university/technology-and-
livelihoodeducation/higaonon-tribe-assignment/46936112
https://talamdan.wordpress.com/2021/08/ https://medium.com/heroesandfriends/this-is-the-
story-of-the-higaonon-tribe-in-the-philippines-48c3444a0c8f
https://www.solimarinternational.com/importance-of-indigenous-involvement-in-tourism-
development/ https://business.inquirer.net/464090/splurging-on-cdos-nature-culture-and-
cuisine/amp https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9713744/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9713744
https://thelivingfields.weebly.com/project-proposal-oil.html