A LAWMAKER on Monday urged tour operators to obtain the consent of indigenous communities before incorporating their cultural practices into tourism activities, following concerns over the promotion of Sagada’s traditional Panag-apoy ritual as a tourist attraction.
In a statement, Party-list Rep. Menchie “Ching” B. Bernos, vice-chairperson of the House Committee on Indigenous Cultural Communities and Indigenous Peoples, said indigenous traditions should not be treated as spectacles for tourists, stressing their religious and cultural significance to local communities.
“These are not spectacles for enjoyment but rather sacred practices deeply rooted in faith and community,” Ms. Bernos said.
Her remarks followed reminders from Sagada officials and residents against promoting Panag-apoy as a tourist attraction during the recent Undas commemoration.
The tradition involves lighting saeng, or pine fatwood, to honor deceased family members. Some tour operators had previously offered sightseeing packages allowing visitors to witness the practice.
She said the incident highlighted the need to revisit tourism protocols involving indigenous peoples (IPs), particularly in ensuring that commercial activities do not encroach on their cultural practices or offend community members.
“Indigenous practices and traditions are interesting to both local and international tourists, however, we must ensure that tourist activities do not encroach on these traditions or offend IP members,” she said.
“All tourism involving IPs must be anchored on consent,” she added.
Ms. Bernos also underscored the importance of regular communication between tourism stakeholders and indigenous communities in developing activities that allow visitors to learn about local cultures without compromising the traditions being observed. — Pexcel John Bacon