The Origin Of The Kankanaey People | fb/Joel Lopez @https://www.facebook.com/aboyfromfarawayland
The Kankanaey people are an indigenous group inhabiting the Cordillera Administrative Region in the northern Philippines. They are part of the Igorot people, a collective term for various indigenous groups in the Cordillera. While the exact origin of the Kankanaey tribe remains a subject of ongoing research and debate, several theories and historical accounts offer insights into their ancestral roots and migration patterns.
Historical Theories and Evidence
– Prehistory and DNA Studies: Recent DNA studies suggest a close genetic connection between the Kankanaey and the Atayal people of Taiwan, indicating a shared ancestry. These findings further suggest that they might have been among the original ancestors of the Lapita people and modern Polynesians. This connection points to a potential origin in Southeast Asia, with subsequent migrations to the Philippines and other parts of Oceania.
– H. Otley Beyer’s Theory: H. Otley Beyer, a prominent anthropologist, proposed that the Kankanaey originated from a migrating group from Asia who landed on the coasts of Pangasinan before moving to the Cordillera. However, this theory has since been discredited.
– Felix Keesing’s Speculation: Anthropologist Felix Keesing proposed that the Kankanaey might have moved to the Cordillera to evade Spanish colonization. This theory suggests a displacement from lower-lying areas due to external pressures.
– Rice Terraces and Early Civilization: The presence of extensive rice terraces in the Cordillera, some dating back centuries, provides evidence of a long-established Kankanaey civilization. These terraces, requiring significant labor and planning, attest to their agricultural prowess and adaptation to the mountainous terrain.
– Gold Mining and Spanish Influence: The Cordillera region was known for its gold deposits, and the Kankanaey, along with the Ibaloy people, were engaged in gold mining long before the arrival of the Spanish. The Spanish expeditions in the 16th and 17th centuries sought to exploit these resources, leading to conflicts and cultural exchanges.
Northern and Southern Kankanaey: Distinctions and Similarities
The Kankanaey are broadly divided into two groups: the Northern Kankanaey (also known as Lepanto Igorot) and the Southern Kankanaey. While they share many cultural similarities, some distinctions exist:
– Geographic Distribution: The Northern Kankanaey inhabit the southwestern part of Mountain Province, while the Southern Kankanaey reside in the mountainous regions of Mountain Province and Benguet.
– Social Structure: Both groups exhibit a bilateral kinship system, with the smallest social unit being the sinba-ey (nuclear family). However, differences exist in social class divisions and land ownership patterns. The Northern Kankanaey has a more pronounced distinction between the kadangyan (rich) and the kodo (poor), while the Southern Kankanaey has a more egalitarian system, particularly in the Mankayan area.
– Language and Dialects: The Kankanaey language is closely related to the languages of the Ifugao and Bontoc people. However, variations in dialect exist, with the Northern Kankanaey speaking a distinct dialect known as Applai.
– Cultural Practices: Both groups share many cultural practices, including rice terrace agriculture, traditional dances, and beliefs in ancestral spirits. However, variations exist in their funerary practices, clothing styles, and courtship rituals.
Conclusion: A Rich History and Enduring Culture
The Kankanaey tribe has a rich and complex history, with evidence suggesting origins in Southeast Asia and subsequent migrations to the Philippines. Their adaptation to the challenging mountainous terrain, their agricultural prowess, and their unique cultural practices have shaped their identity and resilience over centuries. While the exact origins of the Kankanaey remain a subject of ongoing research, their enduring culture and traditions continue to be a vital part of the Philippines‘ diverse cultural tapestry.
Reference: fb/Joel Lopez @https://www.facebook.com/aboyfromfarawayland