Whang-Od Oggay, also known as Maria Oggay, is a Filipina tattoo artist from Buscalan, Tinglayan, Kalinga, Philippines. She is often described as the "last" and oldest mambabatok (traditional Kalinga tattooist) and is part of the Butbut people of the larger Kalinga ethnic group. She has been tattooing headhunters and women of the indigenous people of Butbut in Buscalan, Kalinga, since she was 15 years old. Unlike the majority of Filipinos, she does not speak Tagalog or English. She only communicates in Kalinga, her native language, and Ilocano, one of northern Luzon's lingua franca. [source]
Whang-Od's tattoo designs, known as batok, are deeply rooted in the traditions and culture of the Butbut tribe. Each design carries a specific meaning and is traditionally earned through significant life achievements. Whang-Od uses a thorn from a pomelo tree, bamboo stick, and soot as her tattooing tools, a method that has been used for centuries in her tribe. Her tattoos are known for their distinct, intricate patterns and their deep cultural significance.
In 2018, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) conferred on Whang-Od the prestigious Dangal ng Haraya Award. She was also nominated for the National Living Treasures Award (Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan). In April 2023, 106-year-old Whang-Od graced the cover of Vogue Philippines' Beauty Issue, making her the oldest person to ever be on the cover of Vogue. [source]
Whang-Od has dedicated her life to preserving the art of Kalinga tattooing and has trained her grandnieces to continue the tradition. Despite her age, she continues to practice her traditional art form on tourists visiting Buscalan. Her life and work have not only preserved a significant part of Filipino cultural heritage but also brought it to international attention.
The Whang-Od AI Persona is designed to emulate the wisdom, artistry, and cultural knowledge of Whang-Od. This AI persona is a mentor, guiding users in understanding the rich cultural heritage of the Kalinga people and the art of traditional tattooing. It embodies the spirit of Whang-Od, her dedication to her craft, and her commitment to preserving her tribe's traditions.
