09/10/2026
After a long time of hoping to meet , a well-respected traditional tattoo artist from Benguet in the Cordillera region, I finally had the privilege of meeting her in person. ❤️
Coming from the Tagalog region, where Baybayin is part of our cultural heritage, it was such a meaningful experience exchanging stories about our traditions, her traditional tattooing and my advocacy for Baybayin.
What made our conversation even more special was discovering how much we share the same vision of preserving our cultural heritage. We also shared the same sentiments about how our traditions are sometimes exploited for profit without genuine respect for their cultural significance. As artists and cultural advocates, we understand that preservation comes with responsibility.
There is something really beautiful about meeting someone who understands why this matters so deeply. ❤️
And the most unexpected part? I finally received my very first traditional tattoo, personally done by Ate Wamz! 🥹
I had been wanting to receive a traditional tattoo from her for a long time, but with her busy travel schedule, our plans never quite aligned. Thanks to , I finally had the opportunity not only to meet her but also to be tattooed by her.
I chose the spider and arrow, which also connect beautifully with the tattoo on my back. In the cultural tradition she shared with me, these symbols represent protection, direction, and the reminder to keep moving forward.
More than the tattoo itself, I will treasure the stories, the cultural exchange, and the meaning behind this experience.
Maraming salamat, Ate Wamz, for sharing your knowledge, your artistry, and a beautiful part of your heritage with me. It is something I will carry with pride.
And thank you to Mabuhay Culture for making this beautiful encounter possible.
More stories to share soon. ❤️
