Manide tribe faces cultural heritage challenges

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

DAET, Camarines Norte --- As the younger generation of the Manide, the Bicol Region’s oldest surviving indigenous group believed to have pre-historic origins, adopts the lifestyle of the lowlanders, IP chieftains and elders have urged them to preserve their cultural heritage as original Filipinos.

Ricky Noblesala, 30, the first and only Indigenous People representative to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Camarines Norte, expressed concern that the culture and heritage of the Manide are diminishing. He noted that younger members of the tribe are abandoning their traditions in an attempt to escape discrimination and seek better treatment.

“We are gradually seeing improvements with the support of the provincial government of Camarines Norte. In the past, we were not recognized, and discrimination was severe. Now, we have indigenous students nearing graduation, and we feel a sense of equal treatment from the government, though some discrimination still exists,” Noblesala said during the IP Day celebration.

Noblesala, a resident of Barangay Osmeña, in Jose Panganiban, expressed sadness over the loss of Manide culture as younger tribe members emulate lowlander lifestyles. “Our culture and tradition are fading as you embrace the lowlander way of life. I urge you not to abandon our heritage, which defines us as true Filipinos,” he told Bicol Mail.

Levyn Salvador, 78, chieftain of Tanawan village in Capalonga for 12 years, lamented the struggle to preserve their cultural heritage. He emphasized the importance of maintaining their identity as members of the cultural minority, despite the pressure to conform to mainstream society.

“The younger generation is moving away from our traditions. While it’s acceptable to adopt aspects of the lowlanders’ lifestyle and technology, we must not neglect our beliefs and practices,” Salvador said.

Lyka Cardano, 27, a mother of five and a current Grade 1 student at Katutubo Elementary School, admitted that many young Manide are abandoning their heritage to fit into mainstream society. She and her husband, Joemar, 29, are both pursuing formal education along with their children, except for their youngest.

“This is a significant privilege for us that the government recognizes the Manide tribe. Under Governor Ricarte Dong Padilla, we have received medical assistance, food, and other support. Although some in our tribe still embrace our culture, others are adopting lowlander customs,” Cardano said.

According to the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) in Daet, there are 2,351 members of the Kabihug or Manide tribe, with populations spread across seven municipalities: Jose Panganiban, Basud, Sta. Elena, Vinzons, Capalonga, Labo, and Paracale.

Ricky Noblesala, 30, the first and sole Indigenous People representative to Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Camarines Norte calls the new breed of Manide to embrace and preserve their cultural heritage. Rhaydz B. Barcia

In 2022, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Camarines Norte, led by Engr. Joseph Ascutia, passed Resolution No. 527-2022 during its regular session, which approved Ordinance No. 32-2022, establishing August 9 as the annual Indigenous People’s Day in the province. A seed fund of P3 million was allocated for this program.

The United Nations celebrates August 9 as the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples to promote the rights and participation of indigenous people. Republic Act No. 10689, enacted on August 23, 2015, also designates this day as National Indigenous Peoples Day in the Philippines.

Agnes Maleniza, NCIP Daet chief, noted that Camarines Norte is the only province in Bicol celebrating Provincial Indigenous People’s Day to honor its tribes. She emphasized that the law aims to recognize, respect, and protect the cultural heritage of indigenous communities.

Governor Ricardo Dong Padilla, represented by his son Don Eduardo Silva Padilla, highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous culture. “Your rich culture is a treasure that we must cherish. Despite being part of the marginalized sector, you are an integral part of our administration. Let’s work together for a just and equal society,” Padilla said.

The Manide received free medical and dental care, food, clothing, and school supplies during the celebration. As the oldest tribe in the Bicol Region, the Manide, also known as Kabihug, live a nomadic lifestyle and rely on subsistence agriculture for survival.

Manide tribe given free medicine, medical and dental care, and free haircut during the IP Day celebration in Agro-Sports Complex in Daet Camarines Norte.(Rhaydz B. Barcia)