Nestled within the provinces of Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, a unique group of Indigenous Peoples thrives—the Alangan Mangyan. Their abode rests predominantly at the base of the majestic Mt. Halcon, a setting that adds to the mystique of their existence.

According to the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), the Alangans have cultivated a close bond with the Alangan River, residing near its flowing banks, shaping their lifestyle and traditions around its presence.

The term ‘Alangan’ finds its roots in the river that demarcates the interplay between the rugged terrains of Oriental and Occidental Mindoro. In essence, historians have aptly interpreted the name Alangan to signify ‘in between,’ reflecting their unique position between these two landforms.

In the present day, the ancestral domains of the Alangan stretch across the municipalities of Sablayan and Sta. Cruz in Occidental Mindoro, as well as Victoria in Oriental Mindoro. Shaped by diverse environmental factors, the Alangan community has also expanded into the municipalities of Naujan, Baco, and San Teodoro.

Embracing tradition

A distinctive feature of the Alangan Mangyan identity is their traditional clothing, a tangible expression of their heritage.

Women don ‘lingeb,’ a skirt fashioned from interwoven nito vines harvested from the forest. This ‘lingeb’ drapes gracefully around their abdomen, serving as an undergarment. Accompanying this is the ‘abayen,’ a skirt often crafted from the bark of the Barokan tree, and the ‘ulango,’ an upper covering skillfully made from the leaves of the wild buri palm.

On the male front, the Alangan men don the ‘abay,’ a breechcloth hewn from the bark of trees, which is meticulously processed, washed, and sun-dried. To enhance their attire, a cloth with fringes adorns the front, while a nito-based knot is tied around their waist. A knife is commonly carried, proving indispensable during the consumption of betel nuts or foraging in the forest for sustenance.

Balaylakoy, governane and livelihood

Central to the Alangan Mangyan’s lifestyle is the ‘Balaylakoy,’ an expansive abode constructed from bamboo poles, cogon grass, rattan strips, and tree bark—a harmonious blend of natural materials.

This communal dwelling is divided into sections, each housing 20 to 50 families. Within, bamboo poles create divisions, and a ‘poypoyan’ or fireplace is shared. The entire household operates under the guidance of an esteemed elder known as ‘Kuyay.’

Leading the Alangan tribe is the ‘Tanungan,’ a position of paramount authority, followed by the ‘Nayon,’ a community leader consulted for important decisions. The Nayon accompanies the Tanungan during meetings and dialogues.

Further shaping governance, the ‘Bokal’ or ‘Konsehal,’ acting as the community council, holds the third position of authority. The Bokal administers penalties for transgressions of customary laws.

For sustenance, the Alangan Mangyan community heavily relies on upland farming, cultivating crops like rice, corn, bananas, and root vegetables. Harvests vary, influenced by meticulous farm management and preparation.

Deeper connections

August 9 marks a momentous occasion in the Philippines as the nation commemorates National Indigenous Peoples (IP) Day.

Through the celebration of this day, which pays homage to the multifaceted heritage of IP communities, the Filipino people recognize and honor their distinct place in the nation’s tapestry.

Beyond the festivities, National Indigenous Peoples Day serves as an opportunity for contemplation regarding the enduring challenges Indigenous communities face—chiefly in terms of social justice, land rights recognition, and access to quality healthcare.

Ultimately, this celebration fosters deeper connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Filipinos, nurturing mutual understanding and appreciation.

As the nation rallies around the Alangan Mangyan and other Indigenous Peoples, it reinforces the essence of unity in diversity, cultivating a stronger, more inclusive society.

(Based on the story written by Gene Ace Sapit of PIA-Mimaropa)