Aeta: The Untold History

 

Aeta are the original inhabitants of the Philippines. They live in scattered mountainous part of Luzon. They are known as a skilled hunter – gatherers back in the day, and they thrive every disastrous stike of nature that made the professionals mesmerized. Bushcraft, Sustainable Farming, Art and Body Modification, and Healing are Aetas best known for their traditional knowledge and skills. This is the living proof that even without modern science, they survive by their deep-rooted wisdom and sustain their prehistoric method. But, these are not enough for them to be seen and heard. Should the Aetas have to transform their inherent qualities and perhaps even compromise their authentic selves solely to attain the respect and recognition they rightfully deserve from others in their community or society at large?
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‎Sustainable Farming
‎- Long ago, Aetas primary way of living is through agriculture. However, In 1991 a major volcanic eruption caused a soil degradation to their area and that is when a food shortage have become a serious problem since then. But, with the help of DOST ( Department of Science and Technology ) and DSWD ( Department of Social Welfare and Development ) and the other Non - Government Support , Aetas agricultural practices have came back securing their sustainable livelihood.

Healing 

‎The Aetas are known for their extensive knowledge of herbs and indigenous healing methods. The aeta healers or " mang-aanito " practiced different kind of healings with the use of plants, prayers, and Healing Chants. They perform a diagnostic ritual by cracking a raw egg into a glass of water and they will examine any changes in shape that suggests nature ones illness. The mang-aanito will also pray over herbal plants to be used to someone with illness. 

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‎These practices will help to protect the environment, enhance natural resources, and meeting society's present food and textile needs. We must preserve this knowledge and skills to provide a sense of identity and a belonging to our past, and it will offer us knowledge and wisdom. 

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‎While exploring their community, i have learned that this traditional practices is not just for survivability rather it brings the essence of interconnectedness and love for your race. We must not ignore their skills but rather acknowledge it because they have the knowledge to heal and survive with a limited resources. 

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‎Lastly, Aetas should not change their traditional knowledge and practices for them to be accepted. Because, this knowledge is enough for them to be heard and seen. The problem is the people that are blinded by their own minds. We must not forget that these people are the ones that connect us with our ancestors and shape us from who we are today and the future.