Abuyog and Indigenous Knowledge Systems: Agricultural Practices and Cultural Beliefs of the Ilimos in Pinukpuk, Kalinga

Abstract

This ethnographic study examined the agricultural practices, beliefs, and sociocultural significance of Abuyog among the Ilimos community in Limos, Pinukpuk. Indigenous agricultural systems continue to face challenges from modernization, environmental change, and socioeconomic pressures, creating concerns regarding the preservation of traditional knowledge and practices. The study aimed to examine the significance of Abuyog in the agricultural livelihood of the Ilimos community, describe its integration into farming practices, and explore its social implications within the community. The study utilized an ethnographic research design involving ten farmers actively practicing Abuyog. Data were collected through participant observation, interviews, and documentation of local practices and were analyzed through thematic interpretation to identify recurring themes and cultural meanings. The findings revealed that the Ilimos community consists of experienced farmers aged 46 to 65 years with 22 to 35 years of farming experience, demonstrating extensive indigenous agricultural knowledge transmitted across generations. Participants relied primarily on small-scale agriculture and employed crop diversification and alternative livelihood strategies to address economic limitations and limited rice production. Traditional farming practices were strongly grounded in indigenous ecological knowledge through the use of carabaos, wooden plows, natural soil management methods, and agroforestry practices. Rituals, offerings, prayers, and taboos also remained deeply integrated into agricultural activities. Abuyog further functioned as a cooperative labor system that strengthened family relationships and community solidarity through mutual assistance and shared responsibility. The study concluded that Abuyog remains a culturally embedded and sustainable agricultural system that promotes social cohesion, preserves indigenous knowledge, strengthens cultural continuity, and supports community resilience.