Buscalan 2021

Meeting Apo Whang-Od!

I was inked by the Last Mambabatok and the oldest living tattoo artist in the world, Apo Whang-Od! I made the trek to Buscalan, Kalinga to see the tattoo village and meet the But But tribe whose tattoos are now famous around the world. It was a pleasure to see nature first-hand since the pandemic started. Oh yeah, this also marks my first time to travel during Corona times.

I was first inked by Apo’s apprentice Grace in Manila. I was able to see Grace again, and I was able to give her a shawl that I crocheted myself. Seeing her village is the highlight of my pandemic era.

With Grace, Apo Whang-Od’s grandniece and apprentice

My Buscalan experience was made sweeter with unlimited coffee and peace. I left the mountain with a lighter and more grateful heart.

To book your own tour to Buscalan and get inked yourself, visit Bahaghari Tours! I am happy that I trekked to Buscalan. It is one of the best memories of my life.

Buscalan Ink

I recently got inked by Grace Palicas, the grandniece of Apo Whang-Od. She was in Manila for a few days, and I caught one of her mambabatok sessions. I chose their design for prayer, as I wanted to symbolize that my faith is bigger than the sky, which is represented by my star tattoo.

It was not painful at all. It was rather uncomfortable but I would recommend it because Grace has a light and steady hand. She also inks quickly and efficiently. My tattoo was done in twenty minutes.

You may visit Grace Tattoo Buscalan on Facebook to follow her upcoming tours and schedules both in and out of her hometown. It was an honor to be inked by a true artist, and now, friend.