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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider WATCH: Apo Whang Od rides PAF Blackhawk helicopter

WATCH: Apo Whang Od rides PAF Blackhawk helicopter

Published Feb 16, 2024 08:18 am
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WHAT'S ON YOUR MIND? -- Revered tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od muses as she rides a Philippine Air Force Blackhawk helicopter from Buscalan, Kalinga to Manila on Feb. 14 to 15, 2024. (Photo by PAF)

Revered tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od flew onboard a Philippine Air Force (PAF) Blackhawk helicopter from the mountains of Kalinga province to Manila and vice versa from Feb. 14 to 15 to receive an award from Pres. Marcos.

The 106-year old mambabatok (traditional Kalinga tatooist) embarked on a journey aboard the PAF chopper which fetched her from a remote village in Buscalan, Kalinga to the busy district of Manila on Wednesday.

Pilots from the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing facilitated the transportation of Whang-Od, according to PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo.

WATCH: Apo Whang-Od rides Philippine Air Force Blackhawk helicopter

Whang-od, often described as the oldest living mambabatok, was bestowed the Presidential Medal of Merit by President Marcos for her "unparalleled dedication to preserving traditional Filipino tattoo culture."

Whang-od was then transported back to Kalinga on Thursday.

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Revered tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od muses as she rides a Philippine Air Force Blackhawk helicopter from Buscalan, Kalinga to Manila on Feb. 14 to 15, 2024. (Photo by PAF)

The PAF took pride in transporting Whang-Od as it noted that the use of the Blackhawk helicopter not only symbolized the convergence of tradition and modernity but also emphasized the commitment of the government to honor and acknowledge the cultural richness embedded in the diverse landscapes of the Philippines. 

"The Philippine Air Force takes pride in being part of this historical milestone of giving tribute to a legendary Filipino artist," Castillo said on Friday, Feb. 16.

Related Tags

Philippine Air Force (PAF) mambabatok helicopter PAF blackhawk Kalinga Apo Whang-Od President Marcos Tattoo
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