It’s only a year that has passed since I last visited yet Baguio’s artists’ haven, the Tam-awan Village has undergone some changes that took me by surprise. The place was decorated in the theme of harvest festival or “Ani” in local terms.
A man on top of a carabao, or water buffalo, made of straw and local materials greeted us at the entrance of Tam-awan, but the warm welcome came from the tourist guide waiting for us at the top of the steps. His name was Roniel and he was only 15-years-old. He helps out in the Chanum Foundation, the organization that oversees Tam-awan Village and promotes the indigenous customs of Cordillera.
Only over a decade-old, the Tam-awan Village boasts seven Ifugao huts and two Kalinga huts which were transported from the Cordillera region to Tam-awan where locals and tourists could view the houses and be educated of the culture of the tribes of the northern Philippines. These houses are available for rent to tourists who would want to spend a night in the artsy Tam-awan Village.
Roniel brought us to the various huts and the view deck 1 where the coast of the western part of Luzon could be distinguished. “Tam-awan” means, literally, 'vantage point' because locals can see the whole landscape from the village’s location. Along the way, we saw a giant dreamcatcher which served to protect the entire village. We glimpsed a weird-looking tree and our guide told us that it was called the fern tree, with hook-like sprouts on its head. The marsh-like trunk was used to carve the fertility idol.
What’s new with Tam-awan was the portrait-sketching which was located at the square where the galleries and the coffee-cum-souvenir shop could be found. Don’t miss to sit for a portrait and all the artists present will sketch your face.
Tam-awan is maintained by the Chanum Foundation. Founded in 1996, the foundation took the lead in reconstructing Ifugao houses in Baguio and created a village that will provide travelers a glimpse of the tribal life. Its role is to nurture and care for the Tam-awan Village as a venue for art and cultural activities to enhance appreciation of the history, culture, and life of the Cordillera people.
Quick Tips:
Tam-awan is not very accessible by public transport, although there are a number of taxis that pass by, they come sparingly. It is better to let the cab wait at the entrance. It is a bit of a steep climb from the main entrance to the activity area. Thus, if you plan to go there, wear rubber shoes or slippers as it might get slippery at times.
It is always wise to check the weather in Baguio to know the kind of things you need to bring along. Trust Baguio to offer cheap clothes when you forget to bring your jackets during the cold months or if you’ve left your summer clothes during hot season.
Best Way To Get Around:
Tam-awan Village is found in Pinsao Proper. If you want to commute by taking a jeep, look for the one with the sign Quezon Hill – Tam-awan Village or Long-long via Tam-awan which you can find parked at Kayang Street near the Baguio City Market. If you want to go by taxi or Tamaraw FX cab, direct the driver going past the Lourdes Grotto to Quezon hill to Pinsao Proper.
Going to Baguio, it is more comfortable to take a bus from Manila (either Cubao or Pasay station along EDSA) than to drive a car. Since it’s a six-hour journey for a non-stop trip, you’ll find that you can save on time when you travel at night. Once in Baguio, there are so many taxis that can take you around. Don’t worry, most of the drivers are friendly and do not charge higher than the usual rate. But still, it is safe to be always careful.