Apo Whang-Od. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News/File
The local government unit (LGU) of Tinglayan in Kalinga is reminding the public to show respect to Apo Whang-Od and her craft following reports about a foreign tourist who insisted on having a traditional tattoo placed on an intimate part of his body.
In a statement released on Facebook, the LGU asked visitors, content creators, and other stakeholders to "observe proper cultural etiquette," saying that the Kalinga batok or tattoo "should never be reduced to a novelty, spectacle, or personal dare."
Some netizens have pointed out that Apo Whang-Od likely did not see anything wrong with the foreign tourist's request as she had agreed to accommodate it.
The LGU stressed, however, that this does not mean it is appropriate.
"While we respect Apo Whang-Od's personal decision as a mambabatok, we likewise emphasize that visitors have a responsibility to approach Kalinga traditions with respect, sensitivity, and cultural understanding," it said.
The LGU said it welcomes the international interest surrounding Apo Whang-Od, as long as people come "with genuine appreciation and a desire to learn."
"Come to Kalinga with curiosity, but also with respect," it said. "Our culture is not a prop. Our traditions are not a joke. Our heritage is not a souvenir."
Considered a national treasure, Apo Whang-Od is a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Merit, as well as the Dangal ng Haraya Award for Intangible Cultural Heritage from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.
The 109-year-old mambabatok from the remote mountain village of Buscalan in Tinglayan, Kalinga has inked several notable celebrities and media personalities.
Among them are Filipino-American comedian Jo Koy, actor Piolo Pascual, former Miss Universe Philippines Michelle Dee, and TV host Kim Atienza.