The Tinguian: Social, Religious, and Economic Life of a Philippine Tribe

by Fay-Cooper Cole

[35] Known generally throughout the Philippines as gabi.

[36] The three common varieties of squash are kalabasa (Benincasa certifera), tabongau and tankoy (Curcubita sp.).

[37] In the vicinity of Bakaok a small amount of maguey (Agave cantula Roxb.) is raised. It is employed in the making of cords.

[38] A less esteemed species is known as lalawed ta aso (“dog lawed”).

[39] See Traditions of the Tinguian, this volume, No. 1, p. 100.

[40] A similar drink was used ceremonially in Pangasinan in 1640. See Aduarte, Historia; Blair and Robertson, Vol. XXX, p. 186. It is still found in many portions of the archipelago.

Products of Industry

Iron-Working.—Little iron work is now done in the valley of the Abra for the competition of the Ilocano smiths of Santa and Narvacan, in Ilocos Sur, and the cheap products brought to the coast, and as far inland as Bangued, by Chinese traders, have swamped the native industry.

Forges are still found in many villages of eastern Abra, particularly those of the upper Buklok river, but the real center of the industry is in and around Balbalasang, on the eastern side of the mountain range.