Itneg, Inlaod in Philippines

Introduction / History

Although various people groups that live in the Philippines have similar cultures, there are many language groups. Many small language groups are scattered on the island of Luzon. The Itneg (also called the Tingguian) are known for living in Abra, in the mountains of northwest Luzon. Among the Itneg are several subgroups with different dialects. One of these groups is the Inlaod Itneg. The Inlaod Itneg live in Peñarrubia, Langiden, Danglas, and Lagangilang. The Inlaod language is similar to the Ilocano language, which the Inlaod Itneg speak as their second language.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Itneg homes are generally built in groups, and rice granaries and vegetable gardens are positioned at the edges. Farming plays an important role in the lives of the Itneg, who practice wet rice farming and “slash-and-burn” farming. In the latter approach, the people create new gardening plots by cutting back and burning off existing vegetation. The main crops grown by the Itneg are rice, corn, sweet potatoes, coconuts, mangoes, bananas, vegetables and sugarcane (used to make wine). The Itneg also hunt and fish. They eat chicken, pig, freshwater fish and lobster, as well as carabao during celebrations. Many of the native forests in the Philippines have been destroyed in recent years, creating challenges.

Wealth impacts social status and is determined partially by possessions amassed and feasts hosted. Itneg parents arrange marriages for their sons while they are still young. Regarding clothing, women wear wrap-around skirts, while men wear loincloths. The people are known for their weaving patterns.

Traditionally, the Itneg appoint a council of leaders for each settlement to seek the welfare of the community. These leaders govern by custom and trial by ordeal.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Itneg religious beliefs have shifted much. Historically, the Itneg have been animists and have believed there are multiple deities, the chief deity of their belief being called Kadaklan. They believed in life after death and took special care of dead bodies, believing specific rituals should be observed to ensure a successful journey into the next life.

A well-known ritual practiced by the Inlaod Itneg is called pinaing. In this ritual, focus is given to water-worn stones stored near the entrance of a village These “guardian stones” are said to house a spirit that is believed to protect the village if sufficient gifts are given. In the ritual of pinaing, people gather and slaughter a pig, after which a medium combines the blood with rice and sprinkles it on the ground.

Not all of the Itneg follow traditional Itneg religion. Many have converted to Roman Catholicism. Others have converted to Protestant Christianity.

What Are Their Needs?

The destruction of forests in the Philippines in recent years has brought challenges for the Itneg that adversely affect their food supply.

Prayer Points

Pray for God to send laborers to the Inlaod Itneg who make disciples and minister to the needs of the people.
Pray the Inlaod Itneg will hear the gospel and understand that salvation is by grace through faith in Christ alone.
Ask God to sanctify, strengthen, and encourage the Christians living among the Inlaod Itneg.
Pray for God to grant repentance to those among the Inlaod Itneg who do not follow Jesus.

Text Source:   Joshua Project