Session 4: The Indigenous People of Jordan, Guimaras

Written and photographed by Melissa Chia

Guimaras shoreline

     Guimaras is an island located on the Western Visayas of the Philippines, framed by beautiful beaches with three-toned seawater. The Ati community of Guimaras Island was very welcoming, with their chieftain, Ms. Josephine Tahan giving us an introduction on the life and times of the Ati.

Lifestyle, culture and beliefs

     Ms. Josephine began her session by describing the physical appearance of the Ati. The average Ati is normally about five feet tall, and is easily recognizable by their small and petite body structure. Aside from that, they tend to have flat noses and thick lips. These days, the “average Ati” is no longer that easily identified. Their features have changed over the generations, especially through mixed marriages so that now, contemporary Ati are not only taller, but also possess traits such as straight hair, high noses and lighter skin tones.

An example of the contemporary Ati

     Although mixed marriages now commonly occur, they have still preserved their beliefs and practices till today. Ms. Josephine explained the importance of Ati tradition that begins even before birth. The loving husband and father will take good care of both mother and unborn child during and after the 9 months of pregnancy. The Ati believe that when a baby is born, a bracelet made out of stones and minerals should be worn to keep the baby healthy and safe. They believe that these bracelets can cast out bad and evil spirits that can harm the baby. The bracelet is a charm for protection and good health for the Ati.

Bracelet charm

     Unlike urban city-dwellers, Ati live by hunting in jungles, fishing by riverbanks and the sea, and collecting herbs. Some prefer to collect minerals, stones and seashells so that it can be made into accessories that can be sold. They are completely dependent on nature to survive. Because of their dependence on nature, they also greatly respect it. This is why they will ask for permission before collecting herbs, leaves or plants from the forest- as a sign of respect because they believe that animals and plants have spirits too.

     While they live a nomadic lifestyle, their work routine is largely the same every week. Though life may not be easy for them, they will never fail to return home.

Indigenous People Rights

Interview with Josephine

     The Ati tribe have long lived on Guimaras Island. However, the land they have settled on belongs to private owners. According to the customs of the Ati, the land they step foot on is their ancestral domain but the government has asked that they go by the book and apply for an ancestral domain to claim their plot of land. 

     In addition, the national commission also states that evidence and proof is needed in order to claim their ancestral domain. Hence, they are not allowed to reside there. As the Ati are only just begining to be able to improve their children's education, the effort and difficulty of proving their claim means that they have decided to pass on the procedures and accept the compensation given by the mayor.

Ati settlers paying attention during the session

    The agreement is to compensate them with 10 hectares of land relocation in an area not too far away. The development plans are currently in progress and approval from the mayor has been received. Soon enough, they will finally have a place to call their own.

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Melissa is looking forward to completing her second year. Although she still strives to overcome various obstacles, her perseverance and confidence keeps her going. Melissa loves sports, especially Ultimate Frisbee and is currently in an open team and hopes to travel around the world to compete.