Kalinga is a true haven for tradition and art in the Philippines. This is a two-part episode of our Kalinga series where we explored the art form of making palayoks (Filipino clay pots) and the dangerous lives of the gold miners of Pasil.
This ancient pottery from Pasil is one of the oldest earthenware traditions that has been passed down from generations of “manfafanga” (potters). It’s a sight to behold if you ever get your hands on a unique piece. Meanwhile, far away from the peaceful lives of the quiet village, the hardworking gold miners are practicing their daily routine of mining for the precious metal despite the dangerous conditions around them.
Special thanks to:
Pasil Potters Association
For orders, please contact Rowena Gonnay on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rowena.gonnay
Erick Langgoc
Redford Oclit
Barangay Balatoc Gold Miners
Additional References:
Jill K Carino, “Philippines: gold mining and Indigenous Peoples in the Cordillera,” International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs (IWGIA), August 31, 2023
The Balatoc ICCA, NewCAPP “Expanding and Diversifying the National System of Terrestial Protected Areas in the Philippines Project”
Susan Egan Keane, “Mercury Free gold mining takes hold in Northern Philippines,” Expert Blog, July 19, 2013
Kimberlie Quitasol, “Kalinga tribe questions NCIP on mining exploration nod,” Inquirer, December 23, 2013
Lalin Abbacan-Tuguic, Raymar Galinggan, “Earthenware: The Art of Traditional Pottery of Pasil Kalinga” International Journey of Advanced Reserach in Mamnagement and Social Sciences, June 2016
Shelby Parlade, “Made of the Earth, Grid Magazine, August 2023
Guru Press, “Dangtalan, Pasil potters pursue preservation of traditional pot making,” May 5, 2022
Francesca Torres, “What is Kalinga Pottery? History, Facts, Descriptions, Examples,” Crafts Hero, April 2, 2021
ZigZag Weekly, Crafts”women”ship: The Handmade Pottery of Pasil, March 25, 2019
