Anyone who has ever been to Batanes always returns marveling at the majestic vistas, the rolling terrain, the awe-inspiring mix of mountains and cliffs and ocean. Among the memories many visitors take away is that of the great open sea, the angry waves, the massive swells and ebbs and tides. All of which we controllably view from a safe distance. We stand fascinated, from the safety of our sheltered vantage points. By hearing the actual voices of the Ivatan fisherman, we hope that you see just how vital their knowledge is, and how indomitable their spirits are.

We continue our exploration of the bodies of water that have shaped many indigenous cultures. Not many Filipinos know of the Bugkalot of Nueva Vizcaya, of their history as nomadic farmers, as fisherman, as warriors and headhunters. The Bugkalot may have renounced the violent of their Ilongot ancestors. But in many ways, much of the archaic culture knowledge systems remains with them. These are traditions that they themselves have sifted through as they altered their identity. These are the practices that make the Bugkalot proud of who they have become.

All of the world’s greatest civilizations have sprung beside rivers. Many of the greatest modern cities still proudly trace their roots to their waterways . And these waterways have remained vital and important as passages, as economic byways, as sources of life.

Until new data proves otherwise, Laguna de Bay is still officially, tha largest lake in the Philippines. With a surface area of 949 kilometres, the lake continues to sustain life, culture, art and expression, even as it faces the problems of its own survival As this season of Dayaw continues to explore the ways we live with bodies of water, we turn to the mother, to the great lake of the Tagalog – ang lawa ng Katagalugan – Laguna de Bay.

In this episode, we see how the people of Bohol and Antique maintain a sustainable eco-tourism. One that promotes heritage and environmental awareness while welcoming and educating visitors.

This season ends with a great adventure. We travel to the islands of Tawi-Tawi to meet the Sama Bajao boat builders. Their skills at crafting vessels that ride the waves and currents of the open seas is both ancient and yet relevant. Theirs is a knowledge that has spanned many great journeys. A knowledge that may be even more useful today as we look inward at our stores of traditional knowledge.