Ifugao: Muyong or Pinugo Indigenous Agroforestry Practice

Brief description:

 untilled slope covered mainly with timber, fruit trees, climbing rattan, bamboo, palms and
other associated natural vegetation
 essential part of the agroforestry system in the steep mountainous region
 traditionally inherited properties and are privately owned
 selective cutting is implemented
 forest or woodlot (Ifugao version)
 storehouse of both flora and fauna
 primary source of fuelwood, construction materials, food and medicines
 young, straight and healthy trees are kept and protected

Ecological strengths:

 best preventive measure against soil erosion

 forest conservation strategy
 watershed rehabilitation technique
 assisted natural regeneration strategy
 serving as the primary recharge zone
 provides water and stability
 enrichment planting and protection

Weakness:

 Use of fast-growing exotic species

Cultural values:

 part of the Ifugao ancestral land

 host to the tribal culture
 seen as the abode of ancestral spirits and other benevolent spirits revered by the Ifugao
 rituals are performed, including the canao – a thanksgiving feast for a bountiful rice
harvest and favours obtained from the gods.

References:
Butic, M., & Ngidlo, R. (2003). Muyong forest of Ifugao: assisted natural regeneration in traditional forest
management. Advancing assisted natural regeneration (ANR) in Asia and the Pacific. Regional Office for
Asia and the Pacific, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Bangkok, Thailand, 23-27.

Serrano, R. C., & Cadaweng, E. A. (2005). The Ifugao Muyong: sustaining water, culture and life. Search
of excellence: exemplary forest management in Asia and the Pacific. Regional Community Forestry
Training Center for Asia and the Pacific, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome,
Italy, 103-112.