BE A PART OF THE FILM

We're looking for people's footage featuring Apo Whang Od to include in our documentary, submit your video or photo memories below!

Apo Whang-od in Buscalan Village

 A Filipino-Canadian filmmaker travels to Buscalan, a secluded mountain community, to learn about the history and symbolism of Kalinga tattoos from the legendary artist Apo Whang-od and her apprentices. The film explores how this old practice, once banned and despised in Philippine society, has now evolved into a chic and in-demand type of body art that has become a source of pride and belonging for many Filipinos, both at home and abroad. The documentary also highlights the importance of preserving the tattoo culture for future generations and the challenges faced by the community in doing so. It also delves into the issues of stolen mummified bodies, cultural appropriation, stigmatization, and discrimination faced by tattooed individuals.

Grace Palicas, Tattoos in Buscalan Village
Elyang Wigan tattooing Kent Donguines in Buscalan
Treasure of The Rice Terraces Director, Kent Donguines

Kent Donguines
Director

Jacob Crawford, Producer of Treasure and the Rice Terraces

Jacob Crawford
Producer

Bailey Wood, Producer of Treasure and The Rice Terraces

Nicolle Rufino
Philippines Producer

Bailey Wood
Producer

Grace Palicas, Co Producer of Treasure of The Rice Terraces

Grace Palicas
Associate Producer

John Fleming, Cinematographer of Treasure of The Rice Terraces

John Fleming
Director of Photography

Lars Krutak
Executive Producer

Batok Tattoos on old woman
Apo Whang-od Inked Hands