The term Gaddang means carabao hide or pelt. It is said that the Gaddangs have already been using carabao hide for making rope long before abacca was discovered for this purpose. The term "Gaddang" has been used in referring to this indigenous group located in Nueva Viscaya, Isabela, Quirino and Cagayan.
The Gaddang have long been acculturated unlike their other brothers who still practice some of their pagan ways. Most of them sport body tattoos.
The traditional pattern of economic activity is swidden agriculture in well-forested areas, supplemented by the raising of cash crops such as maize and tobacco.
The Gaddang social organization illustrates the way in which a society adapts to a particular habitat through swidden cultivation. The Gaddang have been using carabaos and plows for only about 10 years. Because the Gaddang lack stable socio-political units, they dispersed settlements are linked together through a formal and informal network of social relations.
The household id the minimal social unit. Economically the household stands alone, and probably reflects the way in which the Gaddang have traditionally adapted to their environment.
Sources:
*Fox, Robert B. et. Al. (1965) A preliminary Clettnochronology from Northern Luzon, Asian studies 3: 103-113
*Working with cultural communities, Report of a Workshop (July 1985) sponsored by US Agency for International Development with coordination of the US Peace Crops and Private Voluntary Organization of the Philippines.
*Tribal Forum published by ECTF (September-October 1985)
AMMUNGAN '89 Nueva Viscaya Heritage Foundation.
