LOCAL TATTOO ARTIST COMMENDED

Mayor Roderick Awingan, with Vice Mayor Guiller Galwan and the Sangguniang Bayan members, presented a commendation to Wilma Gaspili, a resident of Barangay Puguis, for her exceptional artistry as a hand-tap tattoo practitioner or “mambabatek” during yesterday’s flag-raising ceremony.

The resolution honored Ms. Gaspili’s significant contribution to heritage preservation, particularly in Benguet tattooing, serving as a cultural icon and one of the few living testaments of this tradition.

“This is a manifestation of the municipality’s appreciation of local culture and the arts”, declared Mayor Roderick Awingan.

Also known as Ate Wamz, she draws inspiration from Apo Anno, one of Benguet’s tribal leaders in the 12th century, where tattoos covered his entire body.

“Batek” is a traditional tattooing practice in the Cordilleras, which historically signified social and economic status, accomplishments in warfare, and a visual record of a person’s journey in life.

Author: 𝘙𝘙. 𝘉𝘢𝘣𝘴𝘢-𝘢𝘺