Creation is the Elements and Respect Coexisting

The Talaandig, Bukidnon, and Higaonon are the indigenous peoples residing in Kitanglad and its environs. They believe that everything is alive – from the elements to all its forms, to animals and plants, all are believed to be sentient and have a soul.

For them, there are spirits dwelling in every thing and every being in our surroundings. We have to treat them as our kin. They, whom the natives call “diwata”, have as much claim to this world as we do. They move in the same space as we do. We partake with them in all the richness of the earth.

This is why whenever the natives need something from nature, they do not grab it so easily. They ask for it with care through rituals. It’s because the river from which they drink water could also be where the diwata drink. The weed that needs mowing could be their crop and food. The tree that would be felled, their home. If we take these things without thought and grace, we will cause our kin trouble and this will displease them. 

We will suffer their indignation in the form of disasters and tragedies – floods, storms, and illnesses. This is how they let us know we did something wrong.

The indigenous peoples of Kitanglad also recognize the similarities across mankind. Each of us, according to them, is a combination of the same set of elements: water, air, earth, and fire. These elements they revere and consider powerful. And because we are made of these elements, it’s necessary that we respect and care for one another. Deserting one another is akin to disrespecting the powerful elements making up our being.

And this is what the Talaandig, Bukidnon, at Higaonon are doing. The recognition and respect for the diwata is the reason why they fiercely care for Kitanglad and its surroundings. This is home not just to them but also to the diwata. If it is destroyed, their kin will be angered and bring calamities to their communities. Furthermore, the mountain and forest is their pharmacy, their market, school, and church.

For the Talaandig, Bukidnon, and Higaonon, all of creation are one and the same.
We are not separate and adversaries.
Respect is the right of every creation.
This world is for everyone, made of the same elements that birthed all other beings.
We must cherish it.
Caring for one is caring for everything.

"Through stories of wildlife, wild places, and the intertwining of nature and culture, I aim to help create a kinder and more compassionate world."

- Celine, Philippines

Disclaimer:  The views and opinions expressed by the Young ASEAN Storytellers should not be taken, in any way, to reflect the official position or opinion of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, its partners, the ASEAN Member States, and the ASEAN Secretariat.