KALINGA--Cultural icon and  traditional Kalinga tattoo artist Maria Oggay, famously known as ‘Apo Whang-od’,  added another feather in her cap with the  Presidential Medal of Merit bestowed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in a ceremony at the Malacañang Palace on Feb. 14, 2024.

 The President honored Oggay for making the Philippines famous through her practice of the ‘batok’ or traditional Kalinga tattoo.

 “Her craft and stature as an internationally recognized artist raised international awareness of our country’s rich cultural heritage. As Apo Whang-Od’s works appeal to diverse cultures and across political divides, she becomes an enabler for unity and an example of an idea that binds us all. She is truly a national treasure,” Marcos said.

 The President also lauded the artist for breaking gender stereotypes when she entered the male-dominated craft.

 “She is a pioneer in shattering gender stereotypes, venturing into tattooing when it was just a man’s exclusive preserve. She is a keeper of oral traditions and a mentor, teaching a new generation of artists, thus ensuring that her art form lives on to tell tales of her community’s history,” Marcos said.

Kalinga Governor James S. Edduba  is very thankful  to the President  for recognizing  Apo Whang-od, whom he said has made an exponential impact in Kalinga and the country.

“Very thankful tayo ta na-recognize met ti Office of the President ni Apo Whang-od. Dakkel ti contribution na iti culture and arts tayo,” he said.

Edduba said he expects this achievement  to generate media mileage for Kalinga anew, benefitting its tourism.

The governor conveyed the provincial government’s continued support for Apo Whang-od and her fellow tattoo artists in Buscalan.  

“We are looking forward to collaborate more with the [local government] of Tinglayan tapnu karkaru tayo maprotektaran and matulungan tayo dagituy [tattoo artists] idiay Buscalan,” he said.(IOS-PIA CAR,Kalinga) Photo courtesy: PCO