Welcome to Nagpana’s Webquest!
Discover the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of our beloved land, where skilled artisans create exquisite crafts and stunning waterfalls cascade down rocky cliffs into serene pools. Whether you’re exploring our vibrant traditions or hiking through lush forests, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Origins of Barangay Nagpana
Barotac Viejo is home to Barangay Nagpana, which is situated in the Province of Iloilo, Philippines, and it has a culturally colourful past. These communities are located in various settlements, including the Nagpana Ancestral Domain in Sitio Nagpana, Barangay Lipata, and other sites like Purok Kapahuan in Barangay San Geronimo, Sitio Balaring in Barangay San Francisco, Sitio Karabangkalan in Barangay Sto. Tomas, and Sitio Panun-an in Nueva Invencion. The Nagpana Ancestral Domain, where the Ati community has settled, is a focal point of their heritage, dating back to pre-World War II. The community is led by a Tribal Chieftain and a Council of Elders, who play essential roles in maintaining peace and making decisions.
Ati Heritage Reborn Through Nito Weaving
In addition to their rich cultural heritage, the Ati community has shown resilience and cultural continuity through their traditional crafts, such as nito weaving. This craft began in the early 1970s with an inspiring journey by an Indigenous Person to reconnect with family, leading to the revival and preservation of this cultural practice. Nito weaving has become a vital part of their cultural identity, showcasing their artistic skills and deep connection to their heritage. Recognizing the economic potential of the crafted purses, the Ati purchased one and brought it back to Nagpana as a valuable find. This discovery sparked excitement and curiosity within the community, igniting a strong desire to explore and master nito weaving. The enthusiasm for the craft soon united the community in a collective effort to perfect the techniques.1With determination and ingenuity, the Indigenous Peoples of Nagpana embarked on a journey to master nito weaving. Using their hands, keen observation, and a spirit of innovation, they collected nito vines and carefully studied and deconstructed a purchased purse to understand its intricate patterns and techniques. Through perseverance and the wisdom passed down through generations, the artisans of Nagpana mastered the intricate art of nito weaving, gradually perfecting their craft with each piece and stitch. What began as a spark of curiosity evolved into a profound cultural tradition, enriching their identity and providing economic opportunities. Today, the women of Nagpana continue to weave their stories into every creation, honoring their community’s resilience, creativity, and heritage.
Historical Influences
The Ati community, settled in the Nagpana Ancestral Domain, is known for its vibrant culture, including a deep spiritual connection with nature and rich oral traditions. Their cultural practices, which feature storytelling, traditional dances, songs, and crafts, reflect a profound reverence for the natural world, with beliefs in spirits residing in natural elements like trees and rivers. This cultural richness is rooted in their historical experiences and migration patterns, which have shaped their traditions and community life.The Ati Indigenous Peoples have historically prioritized environmental protection due to their deep connection to the land and its sustainable management. Recently, Ati women have emerged as leaders in green initiatives, advocating for their ancestral lands and promoting sustainable practices.
Future Aspirations
Despite their cultural vibrancy, the Ati face challenges related to land rights and legal recognition, particularly concerning the need for a Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) for the Nagpana Ancestral Domain. These challenges highlight the need for legal safeguards to secure their land and cultural heritage. The Ati community’s future aspirations include achieving legal protection and recognition to ensure their cultural practices and traditions can continue to thrive, supported by the National Commission of Indigenous People (NCIP) under Republic Act 8371.
Highlighted Features
Indigenous Handicrafts
Crafted Cascades presents exquisite artisanal treasures inspired by nature’s splendor. Each handcrafted piece tells a unique story of artistry and passion, celebrating the harmony between human creativity and the beauty of the natural world.
Nagpana’s Waterfalls
Experience the mesmerizing beauty of nature’s masterpiece at Crafted Cascades. Our serene, cascading falls captivate with their majestic allure, offering a tranquil escape into the heart of
natural beauty.
Meet the Artisans
In the heart of Nagpana lies a community of skilled artisans, each weaving their own story into the fabric of our culture. From master weavers to talented ceramic artists, our artisans bring centuries-old traditions to life with every stroke of their brush, every twist of their loom, and every sculpted masterpiece. Renowned for their intricate beadwork and weaving, the artisans of Nagpana are celebrated for preserving and showcasing their vibrant cultural heritage. Step into their world and immerse in the rich tapestry of craftsmanship that defines Nagpana.
Visitors snapshots
Capture the essence of Nagpana through the eyes of our visitors. Browse our gallery to see stunning snapshots of tourists exploring the majestic waterfalls, engaging with local artisans, and experiencing the vibrant culture. Each photo tells a story of adventure, beauty, and the unforgettable charm of Nagpana.
