A Deep Dive into the Life of the Aeta People of the Philippines

          The Aeta (also spelled Ayta, Agta, Ita, and other variations), are indigenous peoples inhabiting various mountainous regions of Luzon, Philippines. They are considered among the earliest inhabitants of the archipelago, predating the Austronesian migrations. Their history, culture, and current challenges paint a complex picture of resilience and struggle Origins and History : The Aeta's origins remain a subject of ongoing research. Genetic studies suggest a connection to Australo-Melanesian populations, with some lineages potentially tracing back tens of thousands of years. They arrived in the Philippines via land bridges connecting the islands to mainland Asia during the Paleolithic era. However, they are not a monolithic group; rather, they comprise numerous distinct ethnolinguistic groups with unique names and customs. Culture and Traditions: Aeta culture is rich in spiritual beliefs, often characterized by animism and a belief in a supreme being...