Way of Living

Agriculture

Mangyan is mainly subsistence agriculturalists, planting a variety of sweet potato, upland (dry cultivation)
rice, and taro. They also trap small animals and wild pigs. Many who live in close contact with lowland
Filipinos sell cash crops such as bananas and ginger. They are dependent on what the environment can give
them and do not rely on any commercial pesticides and feeds to manage their farms and raise their
livestock.

Farming

The Hanunuo Mangyans practice three production systems: swidden or kaingin, multistorey, and home
gardens. Swidden farming (Shifting cultivation) was the most practiced system but the least ecologically
sound. The positive impact of this practice was pollution-free soil which was ecologically sound in the long
run. The negative impacts included less soil fertility and slow nutrient build-up; longer fallow period to
regain soil fertility; and low crop yield. Mangyans still observed rituals in planting and harvesting.
 Embroidery And Weaving

The Hanunuo Mangyans are remarkably great in embroidery. It has been a part of their lives. Their unique
designs can be seen through their clothing. Other than embroidering by hand, the Hanunuo is also versed
in weaving or habilan, where they use cotton. Because of this, a lot of people in their community were able
to generate income and provide for the needs of their families. Utilizing resources that can be found in
their surroundings, they were able to preserve there culture and traditions as well as keep their family out
of hunger.

Aside from that, they are also known for their exceptional weaving and basketry. The Iraya-Mangyans of
Oriental Mindoro, especially known for their unique art form, preserved their tradition through nito-
weaving. This deep-rooted tradition has been the primary source of income of the Iraya-Mangyans as they
weave using a certain vine called nito that can be found in the forest that is used for basketry and
handicrafts. This has been the livelihood of the community which has a great opportunity to reach the
wider market. Aside from weaving baskets, they have ventured into a wide array of crafts. At present, the
Iraya-Mangyans now produce functional items such as hot pads, fruit baskets, trays, lamp shades, and
fashionable accessories such as bags, necklaces, and earrings.
 Fishing

The fishery is also one of the sources of income in Occidental Mindoro. It has been an established source of
livelihood for the people in the place. Yellowfin fishing has been a booming industry for Occidental
Mindoro for the past few years as tuna's behavioral patterns change. As a matter of fact, Occidental
Mindoro has been tagged as the “Philippines’ Tuna Sport Fishing Capital.” The fisherfolk in the area are
very keen to market the brimming supply of tuna for sport fishing. In fact, the government officials of
Occidental Mindoro are the ones who are very eager to promote sport fishing in Occidental Mindoro for
they want it to be the trademark of the said place.