Geography and Culture Connections in Philippine History

These vocabulary flashcards cover the essential terms and concepts linking Philippine geography, culture, upland (Ilaya) and lowland/coastal (Ilawod) communities, and the intersection of individual identity with society.

Geography (Heograpiya)

The study of the Earth’s physical features and different places as well as the relationship of humans with their environment. From the Greek words “geo” (earth) and “graphia” (to write/draw).

Culture (Kultura)

The learned system of shared beliefs, values, practices, and material traits of a group of people, shaped by their environment and history.

Sa-raya / Ilaya

Upland or highland settlements located far from the sea; literally means “upland” or “source of the river.”

Sa-ilud / Ilawod

Lowland or coastal settlements situated near rivers or the sea; literally means “downstream” or “open sea.”

Miguel de Loarca

Spanish encomendero who recorded the existence of the Ilaya and Ilawod communities during the 1564 Legazpi expedition.

Ilaya (Geographical Traits)

Mountainous, elevated areas distant from the coast or river mouths.

Ilawod (Geographical Traits)

Low-lying areas close to rivers, estuaries, and coastal zones.

Economy (Kabuhayan)

The collection of human, communal, and institutional activities related to production, distribution, exchange, and consumption of goods and services.

Ilaya Economy

Primarily agriculture-based, including terrace rice farming, root crops, hunting, small-scale gold mining, and weaving.

Ilawod Economy

Focused on fishing and maritime trade, relying heavily on aquatic resources and strategic waterways.

Igorot

Collective name (from “golot” meaning mountain chain) for the ethnolinguistic groups of the Cordillera highlands in northern Luzon, known for rice terraces, hunting, gold mining, and traditional weaving.

Binukot

A Visayan tradition of secluding a young noble girl to preserve beauty, honor, and value for future marriage; the word means “hidden” or “kept.”

Moro

Indigenous Muslim peoples of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago, renowned seafarers and traders speaking languages such as Maguindanaon, Maranao, and Tausug.

Badjao

Sea-dwelling ethnic group called “Sea Gypsies,” inhabiting houses on stilts or boats (vinta) around Sulu and Celebes seas; practice fishing, diving, and colorful mat weaving.

Islam in the Philippines

Introduced in the 14th century and remains the principal faith of the Moro and many Badjao communities.

Vinta

Colorful outrigger boat used by the Badjao and other coastal peoples of Sulu and Mindanao.

Trade Between Ilaya and Ilawod

Exchange of upland products (gold, timber, medicinal plants) for lowland/coastal goods (salt, fish, sea products).

Cultural Synthesis

The blending of Ilaya and Ilawod traditions, rituals, technologies, and beliefs through continuous interaction.

Community (Komunidad)

An organized group sharing linked relationships, roles, and culture—such as family, school, or barangay—shaping daily life.

Intersection of Self and Society

The dynamic relationship between an individual’s identity and the broader social environment that molds values, language, and behaviors.

Identity Formation

Process by which beliefs, language, traditions, and practices from one’s community shape personal and national identity.

Empathy

Deep understanding of others’ feelings and experiences, strengthened by grasping the intersection of self and community.

Active Participation

Individual engagement in community projects and issues to maintain order, development, and unity.

Adaptation and Change

Mutual transformation of individuals and communities influenced by experiences, technology, and global events.

Barangay

Pre-colonial and modern basic political unit in the Philippines, often emerging from cooperative Ilaya-Ilawod interactions.

Cordillera

Mountainous region in northern Luzon where many Igorot groups reside.

Golot

Old term meaning “mountain chain,” root word for “Igorot.”

Umboh

Ancestor spirits revered by the Badjao alongside Islamic practices.

Sea Gypsies

Nickname for the Badjao, highlighting their nomadic maritime lifestyle.

Strategic Sulu Sea

Key maritime corridor linking the Philippines and Malaysia, fostering Moro trade and seafaring expertise.