Diwata earns ire of Igorots in derogatory video mocking Cordilleran culture

Benguet, Philippines – “Insensitive. Insulting. Disrespectful.” These are some of the words most Igorots thought of social media influencer Diwata who was under hot water following a video he posted which he took while in La Trinidad, Benguet wearing the native attire with traditional hunting tools.

The influencer who is known for his Pares Overload and vibrant personality attended the Panagbenga Festival float parade in Baguio City on February 23. While he was visiting the city, he took the time to go to La Trinidad, as seen on the videos he posted online.

While Diwata seemed to enjoy his visit in the Cordillera region, he recently earned the ire of most Igorots in a video he posted on Facebook on February 22. In the clip, he was clad in an ethnic attire while holding a spear and ‘kalasag’.

“Nandito na naman tayo sa Baguio, hindi natin makumpleto ang ating pagpunta dito kung hindi tayo makapagsuot ng Igorot costume,” he said, then went on thrusting the spear into the ground, followed by noises from him and his companions as if they were chanting as they all erupted into laughter.

Netizens’ reactions

One of the things the Cordillerans pointed out is his referring to the native attire as ‘costume.’ What he was wearing was not simply a costume or mere accessory, it is an ethnic attire.

While Diwata and his companions who were filming him might have found their actions amusing, the Cordillerans found it offensive. 

“Nagsusuot kami ng ganyan pero di kami dumidila at nagsasalita na parang unggoy... Konting respeto lang Naman kung di alam pwede Naman magtanong kung ano at paano,” one of the netizens commented.

Another netizen who pointed out that nothing he portrayed resembles Igorots encouraged the vlogger to do his research to develop cultural awareness, writing, “I forgive you, but as I have said, please build your awareness and cultural sensitivity. As a leader, broadening your perspective and worldview—both in small and big matters—will pay high dividends in your career and life in general.”

The influencer, on February 28, apologized and took responsibility for the incident, saying he will strive to learn and understand the culture of the communities he will be visiting.