1. Oral Literature:
* Epics: Narratives of heroic deeds and ancestral journeys, like the Hudhud of the Ifugao, Alim of the Kalinga, and Ullalim of the Bontoc.
* Folklore: Stories, myths, legends, and proverbs that reflect the beliefs, values, and social norms of the different tribes.
* Songs and Dances: Traditional music and dance forms expressing emotions, celebrating life events, and preserving cultural heritage.
2. Written Literature:
* Poetry: From the early works of Federico Mangahas to contemporary poets like Victorio C. Pagaduan and Jimmy B. Abad, Cordillera literature is characterized by its lyrical and evocative style.
* Short Stories: Writers like Breton Gamboa and Frank Rivera explore themes of identity, culture, and social issues in their short fiction.
* Plays: The region boasts a vibrant theater scene with playwrights like Jose D. Nepomuceno writing works reflecting the lives and struggles of the Cordillera people.
* Novels: Although less common than other genres, novels like "The Cordillera Story" by Frank Rivera and "The Winds of Change" by Breton Gamboa shed light on the history, culture, and contemporary challenges faced by the region.
3. Indigenous Languages and Literature:
* The CAR is home to numerous indigenous languages, each with its own rich literary tradition.
* Efforts are being made to preserve and revitalize these languages through the publication of literary works in native tongues.
* Organizations like the Cordillera Indigenous Peoples' Literature Center and the Northern Luzon Center for Culture and the Arts play a crucial role in promoting indigenous literature.
Themes in Cordillera Literature:
* Cultural Identity: Exploring the unique traditions, beliefs, and social structures of the different tribes.
* Land and Nature: Recognizing the importance of the environment, ancestral lands, and the relationship between people and nature.
* Social Justice: Addressing issues of oppression, marginalization, and the struggle for self-determination.
* Resistance and Empowerment: Celebrating the resilience and resistance of the Cordillera people against historical injustices and ongoing challenges.
Key Authors and Works:
* Federico Mangahas: "The Cordillera Story"
* Victoriano C. Pagaduan: "The Cry of the Cordillera"
* Jimmy B. Abad: "The Cordillera, My Home"
* Breton Gamboa: "The Winds of Change"
* Frank Rivera: "The Cordillera Story"
* Jose D. Nepomuceno: Numerous plays highlighting Cordillera issues
Challenges and Opportunities:
* Language Loss: The decline of indigenous languages poses a threat to the preservation of oral and written traditions.
* Lack of Resources: Limited access to publishing opportunities and support for writers in the region.
* Growing Need for Translation: To reach wider audiences and connect with people beyond the Cordillera region.
The literature of the Cordillera Administrative Region is a valuable contribution to Philippine literature. It reflects the diverse voices, cultures, and experiences of its people and offers a window into the rich history and struggles of the region.