NLEX Corporation’s digital series, “Humans of the North,” has released a new episode called “Pag-ukit ng Pamana,” which focuses on the dying art of woodcarving in Banaue, Ifugao. This craft, passed down for over 800 years, is at risk as the older generation of artisans grows older and there aren’t enough young people learning the skill.
The episode features Santos Bayucca, a passionate advocate for preserving woodcarving traditions. He started the Lagud Museum and Café to showcase ancient wooden carvings and teach Ifugao children how to carve, ensuring this cultural treasure isn’t lost. Bayucca believes that without this knowledge being passed on, a huge part of their culture will disappear. “If woodcarving fades, a big part of our culture will be lost,” he says.
The episode takes viewers through the detailed steps of woodcarving, showing how each piece tells a story and holds deep cultural meaning. For example, carved figures like the “Bulul” are believed to absorb illness, and special musical instruments are made for the deceased. Through interviews with skilled carvers and their apprentices, we learn about the challenges of keeping this tradition alive, along with the dedication and passion involved in preserving it.
NLEX Corporation hopes that by showcasing the efforts of these artisans in “Humans of the North,” viewers will better understand the importance of cultural preservation and feel inspired to support this fading art.
