The secret to mummification is unique in the Philippines

The Ibaloi people use salt and herbs in combination with the effects of fire to embalm. This process may take up to 2 years to complete.

Kabayan - a town in Benguet province, north of Luzon Island, the Philippines is home to a majority of Ibaloi people - a unique ethnic culture of the Philippines.The Ibaloi are known all over the world for the mummification of their dead bodies.

This custom was made long before the Ibaloi before the Spanish colonists invaded the Philippines.The mummification was carried out in a long ritual and only for high-class people in the community.

The Ibaloi body embalming technique is based on the use of salt and herbs combined with the effects of fire.This process may take up to 2 years.

When it became completely dry, the mummy was placed inside a coffin made of pine wood and buried in a natural cave or artificial cave that was dug deep into the rock.

This rule ended when the Spaniards occupied the Philippines and imposed Catholicism on the indigenous community.Since then, the cave containing mummies has been abandoned for a long time.

After being discovered again in recent decades, many caves have been invaded by ancient tomb thieves.Tourists are also a factor in the loss of mummies.

According to statistics, on the slopes around Kabayan town today there are more than 200 caves and 15 of them contain mummies.In addition, there may be many other mummies that are buried in the mountain.

The archaeological agency of the Philippines has actively cooperated with international organizations to research and preserve these mummies.Many management measures have been introduced to protect mummies from negative effects from humans.

Currently, Kabayan mummies have been recognized by the Philippine government as a national heritage, symbolizing the unique culture and beliefs of the Ibaloi tribe, which need special preservation.

This relic was also submitted by the Philippines to UNESCO for approval of the World Heritage title