MANILA, Philippines – Do you have a tattoo made by Whang Od? Let the world see it.
Netizens shared photos of their tattoos made by Whang Od to support the call to recognize the Cordilleran tattooer as a National Living Treasure or as a National Artist.
The call for the award started with an online campaign, which soon became viral. It was Lawyer Emil Marañon III who then suggested that Whang Od deserves a "more special award."
According to Republic Act 7355, the National Living Treasures Award is awarded to "a Filipino citizen or group of Filipino citizens engaged in any traditional art uniquely Filipino, whose distinctive skills have reached such a high level of technical and artistic excellence."
Many netizens expressed their support for Whang-Od, saying the woman deserves all the awards since she embodies the rich heritage of the country that "most Filipinos have unfortunately forgotten."
Some netizens shared photos of their traditional centipede tattoos which represent guidance and protection. Meanwhile, others showed off their tattoo lines which, according to Whang Od, reflect the resiliency of nature.
Check out the photos below:
Do you want her to finally receive these awards? Ask your friends to snap a photo of their tattoo made by Whang-Od and share it on Facebook or tweet us @moveph using #WhangOd. – Rappler.com