Kalinga LGU hits tourist’s disrespectful tattoo request

KALINGA, Philippines — Officials of Tinglayan town in this province are calling for respect for Kalinga’s indigenous traditions after a foreign tourist reportedly compelled legendary tattoo artist Apo Whang-od to tattoo an intimate part of his body.

The municipal government said the incident underscored the danger of treating the centuries-old Kalinga batok tradition as a tourist stunt, personal dare or social media novelty.

While respecting Whang-od’s personal decision as a mambabatok, the LGU said an artist consent does not automatically make a visitor’s request culturally proper or respectful.

The traditional Kalinga batok, which is done with the use of a pomelo thorn and a bamboo mallet, carries generations of history, symbolism and community identity, officials said.

They said reducing the practice to an unusual body art experience strips it of its cultural meaning.

The local government said tourists, members of media and content creators are welcome, but warned that tourism must not come at the expense of indigenous dignity.

Local officials said visitors must understand and appreciate the culture of Kalinga and not turn its sacred traditions into an entertainment.