Echoes of the Habwoyans
Echoes of the Habwoyans is an architectural response to the impending submergence of the Dumagat ancestral lands in the Philippines - due to a hydroelectric dam infrastructure that aims to “solve Metro Manila’s water crisis”. The architecture is anchored in the memory of the submerged limestone landscape and serves as a test to the enduring spirit of the Dumagat community I met during my field research.
It stands not only as a design response for resistance but also to challenge state-led policies and laws, advocating for the recognition and of indigenous rights and cultural in the face of development projects that threaten indigenous lives.
Location
Philippines
Year
2025
Mama (Betel Nut) Pigment
Locally known as ‘Mama or Nganga’ Betel Nut or Areca Nut is a stimulant nut that is part of the Filipino culture especially across Indigenous groups. A material of resistance. A way to reclaim space through story and ritual.
Field Research, Philippines, 2025.
I dedicate this research to the Agta of Isabela and the Dumagat of Rizal — and to the many marginalised voices and stewards of the Sierra Madre Mountains in the Philippines.
This work is a small offering to the stories, struggles, and knowledge that often go unheard but remain essential to the life of the land.
A special thanks to those mentioned below for believing in the project.
Alexander Tannatt-Cook, Alwyn Balanquit, Bahar Noorizadeh, Bobby Almazar, Brandon Fong, Cian Dayrit, Constantina Antoniadou, Elliana Javier Quizon, Emmanuel Guinez, Gladys Garcia, Jacob Maentz, Jazzmeen Javier, Jerome Aragones, Jordon Lim, Katie McDermott O'Sullivan, Lodovica Guarnieri, Lovely Ayura Villegas, Luisito Bautista, Mama, Mohamad Safa, Monica De Los Reyes, Mylene Samson, Nicola Aquafredda, Papa, Patrisha Galang, Rand Ghobril, Reece Murray, Sila Cakir, Tita Marilyn, Zeki Emin, Vanny Santiago, Vicky Chong, Vien Valencia, Virginita Villegas.