The Batanes Islands

History

The Batanes group of islands came in late into the folds of Spanish
colonial power. “Freedom had been the Ivatan experience for as long as they
existed. That ended on June 26, 1783, with the annexation of Batanes by
the Spanish Colonial State in the Philippines. Not that the Ivatans were
conquered on the day but June 26 marked the beginning of the process of
eventual conquest. The Ivatans would be under Spain for 115 years and
would not be free again until September 18, 1898.” (Hidalgo 1996:113).
Ironically, June 26 is being celebrated by the entire province as Batanes Day
(Foundation Day).

Culture and Traditions

       No other cultures in the Philippines have mastered the rages of the
seasonal typhoons as the Ivatan. Their culture is a product of long history of
struggle and adaptation to typhoons, the rough seas, and meager resources.
It exemplifies the harmonious relationship of people with their environment.

The Houses

Before the coming of the Spaniards, the Ivatan lived in very small and
low cogon houses well situated to maximize the protection against strong
winds. The Spaniards introduced large-scale production of lime for the
construction of the now famous “traditional” Ivatan stone-houses, with
exceptionally thick cogon roofs, that could withstand the strongest typhoon.

Food and Production

Small islands usually have limited carrying capacities. The seas are
hospitable only for a few months (March, April, May) every year. Flying fish
(dibang) and dolphinfish (arayu) fishing are the highlights of the fishing
season. The meager resources taught the Ivatan to scrimp on every
resource that they have. They do not waste food or anything. Food security
of the household is a continous concern of every household. The scarcity of
resources produced food patterns unique to this culture. They
have uvud (banana stalk pith), vunes (dried taro stalk), kudit (dried cow,
carabao, or pig skin), lunyis (pork cooked in its own fat) as insurance
against unexpected food shortages. They are also masters of recycling; few
things go to the garbage dump. They are also excellent farmers producing
most of the food that they need, especially rootcrops like yam (uvi, dukay),
sweet potato (wakay), and taro (sudi). Each household is oftentimes self-
sufficient enjoying a considerable degree of independence. Chickens, goats,
and pigs are occassional protein sources. Cattle are raised mainly for cash
but also slaughtered during festivities. Garlic is the other cash crop. Most
recently, the Ivatan started to depend on rice, supplied by the National Food
Authority from Luzon, as their staple instead of the usual rootcrops.

Religion

Today, the Ivatan are basically Catholic. Their religious devoutness can
be attributed to the persistent and dedicated works of the early Dominican
priests. However, there are a growing number of other Christian
denominations especially in the capital town. Regardless of this, the Ivatan
still believe in the influenceof the world of the anyitus (ghosts or soul of
dead ancestors. Although they do not worship them, they conduct rituals
and offerings to appease or placate an anyitu.

How to go to Batanes?
The fastest way to reach Batanes is by air. However, the options are
limited. Philippine Airlines and Skyjet Air fly to Basco, the capital town of the
province. Travel time is 70-110 minutes, depending on your choice of airline
5 Most Beautiful Batanes Tourist Spots You Shouldn’t Miss
1. Racuh A Payaman (Marlboro Country)
2. Alapad Hill and Rock Formation

3. Basco Lighthouse
4. Morong Beach

5. Vayang Rolling Hills