“Is ignorance a bliss?”
We are free to choose our actions, but we are not free to choose the consequences of these actions. Some consequences favor you, but most of them are against you. In this day’s article, let us understand and reflect on Diwata’s actions in Baguio.
Diwata’s Action
In summary, Diwata or a.k.a Deo Balbuena, gained online fame for his food vlogs, particularly for selling “pares” (braised beef) and sharing his rags-to-riches story. However, Diwata was recently in the news for a video that was said to mock the indigenous people of the region. In the controversial video, Diwata can be seen wearing a traditional attire and accompanied with demeaning actions and inappropriate sounds with a quote saying “Guys andito na naman tayo sa Baguio, hindi natin makukumpleto ang pagpunta natin dito kung hindi tayo makakapagsuot ng Igorot costume,” then followed people making sounds.
Indigenous Cultural Communities/Indigenous Peoples
The ICC/IP commented on Diwata’s action. When Diwata referred to ICC/IPs’ traditional clothing as “costume,” it was interpreted as a disrespectful mischaracterization. Also from the vlog, Diwata attributed the ICC/IPs’ native attire as costume. In effect, relegating the IPs’ attire, which forms part and parcel of the IPs’ customs and identity, as a mere accessory, or worse trinkets. This Office seeks to clarify for the public that ‘Diwata’ is neither a member of nor affiliated with any of the fourteen (14) ICCs/IP groups in the Cordillera region. They further stated that Diwata’s acts and portrayals do not authentically reflect the values, beliefs, or cultures of Cordillera’s ICCs/IPs.
Informing and Educating
Other organizations are making a move to guide and educate Filipino mindsets towards our Indigenous People. Not just the backlash issue of Diwata, but all of the other issues regarding Indigenous People need an urgent action to educate and reshape the perception of them. Here are the following programs and activities:
- Educational Programs
- Media and Publications
- Community Engagement
- Advocacy and Policy
- Digital Platforms
By incorporating these strategies, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation and understanding of the indigenous peoples of the Philippines, ensuring their cultures are respected and preserved. And always remember we always need to be mindful of the actions that we made.
