Arts & Culture

In the Ibaloy tradition, Tayaw is an expression of feast, joy or celebration.

It is never performed during wake period.

The man and the woman dance different parts to the rhythm of the gong.

The man dances with blankets draped over his shoulder, while the woman dances with the sarong wrapped like a blanket.

The movements of the arms while performing Tayaw for the Benguet people have meanings or interpretations.

Spreading the arms like an eagle, means independence and freedom.

Hands with palms upward symbolize praise to Kabunyan.

Arms with palms downward signify respect to the dead ancestors.

Fingers close together symbolize unity and close relations.

During the tayaw, the male portrays bravery and self- confidence, while the female portrays meekness and submission.

From time to time, the dancers look up to the sky and then down the ground, meaning it is a supplication for fertility and bountiful harvest.