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On May 15, 2024, the Batad Rice Terraces in Banaue, Ifugao, suffered a catastrophic wall collapse. The incident highlighted the urgent need for heritage conservation and the preservation of traditional institutions that have sustained these terraces for centuries.
Traditionally, the maintenance and repair of the rice terraces, including their walls and irrigation channels, have been managed by cooperative groups. In Ayangan-speaking Ifugao, this practice is known asin Tuwali Ifugao) They are regulated by kinship and territorial affiliation, ensuring community-wide cooperation – a necessity in the Ifugao landscape and agricultural system.
Additionally, the recognition enhances cultural pride and identity among the Ifugao. It reinforces the cultural significance of the terraces, instilling pride and encouraging the preservation of their heritage and traditions. This can motivate younger generations to value and uphold their cultural identity, promoting a sense of community and continuity.
Moreover, the surge of international experts and funding might prioritize global conservation ideals over indigenous management practices, reducing the agency of the Ifugao communities in deciding how their heritage is maintained. This is also compounded by over-dependence on external funding. While international funding is beneficial, it can create a dependency that undermines local initiatives and self-reliance.
The Ifugao Rice Terraces are more than just structures for rice cultivation; they are integral to the Ifugao identity. These terraces are where the Ifugao express their local religion, maintain their traditional practices, and navigate their relationship with Christianity. The terraces are a living heritage, embodying the historical, cultural, and spiritual life of Ifugao communities.