While attending the community-based workshop in Mayoyao, Ifugao, the locals advised us to visit Apfo’or, which could be found nearby.
Apfo’or, as they explained, are burial tombs where people from elite and warrior families in Mayoyao bury their loved ones. This practice has ancient roots in Mayoyao.
Intrigued by the words “burial tombs,” I was eager to see Apfo’or firsthand. They instructed us to walk straight to the top of Ottong Hill until we reached the cliff’s end. So, we set off on a short hike towards the cliff.
The view from Ottong Hill
The community-based workshop in Mayoyao.
Along the way, we couldn’t help but admire the mountainous terrain and natural beauty. Exploring Mayoyao offers the chance to experience the stunning views and embrace nature at its best. After walking for a few minutes, we eventually reached the cliff and noticed the rock structures ahead – the renowned Apfo’or.
The first one we encountered appeared well-renovated, resembling a small dome with a central opening. It seemed recently refurbished, prompting us to capture some photos.
The first Apfo’or Mayoyao.
Continuing along the cliff’s edge, we discovered another Apfo’or, which looked older and more natural. This one appeared untouched and authentic, reflecting the traditional burial practices of past generations. Unfortunately, the tradition of Apfo’or burial is gradually fading as modern burial methods are introduced to the community.
However, both the locals and the government recognize the importance of preserving these structures as vital heritage sites for the Mayoyao people.
Apfo’or
Approaching the Apfo’or
While admiring the Apfo’or, I couldn’t help but ponder the origins of the rocks and how they were shaped into their current form. Surveying the area, I noticed a river at the foot of the mountain. Through conversations with locals and subsequent research, I learned that the rocks are granite sourced from the riverbed.
This discovery highlights the community’s unity and cooperation in sourcing and transporting granite rocks to construct these burial sites atop the mountains.
Encountering the Apfo’or was an unexpected delight, turning what began as participation in a community workshop into a fortunate opportunity to witness the rich heritage of the Mayoyao people firsthand.
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How to visit these Apfo’or in Mayoyao
Once you visit Mayoyao, visit and coordinate with the Mayoyao Municipal Office to help you with your tour and itinerary. They can craft a good itinerary with you that includes the visit to Apfo’or. Here’s their contact details.
Mayoyao Tourism Office
– Facebook: Majestic Mayoyao
– Email: mayoyaotourism@gmail.com
– Mobile: 0906-9582204 / 0949-6640088
Can’t help but take some photos.
How to get to Mayoyao
From Manila, take a bus going to Lagawe, Ifugao. From the terminal in Lagawe, take a bus or van going to Mayoyao. The drop-off point is located near the market, which is just a few steps away from the Tourism Office and Municipal Hall.
Aside from Lagawe, you can also travel via Santiago City, Isabela and Solano, Nueva Vizcaya where you can find vans and buses that will take you directly to Mayoyao. Here are the schedules for your guidance.
From Lagawe to Mayoyao:
– Bus departs at 3:00 PM
– Van departs at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM
From Santiago, Isabela to Mayoyao:
– Van: 7:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM
– Bus: 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM
From Solano, Nueva Vizcaya to Mayoyao:
– Departure at 8:00 AM
Selfie is necessary haha
Where to stay in Mayoyao
When I was in Mayoyao, I stayed at Mayoyao View Inn located near the plaza and municipal hall. It also has a breathtaking view of the Mayoyao Rice Terraces and mountains. I highly recommend that you also stay here if you plan to visit Mayoyao. Check my full review of the accommodation here – Mayoyao View Inn Review.
Best Time to Visit Mayoyao
The best time to visit Mayoyao, Ifugao, is usually from November to April, when the weather is dry and there’s less rain. This makes it perfect for enjoying outdoor activities like exploring the Mayoyao Rice Terraces and waterfalls.
It’s cooler from December to February, which makes it more comfortable for outdoor adventures. But remember that the weather in Mayoyao can be a bit unpredictable, so there might still be some occasional showers during the dry season.
