TIMBAC BURIAL CAVE

Unfortunately, many of the mummy caves have been vandalized or looted to be sold in the black market. To protect them, the locations of the 50 to 80 caves are known only to Ibaloi elders. According to recent reports, the mummies are also being attacked by natural agents such as water, rodent mites, insects and mold. Tribal beliefs hinder the transfer of these mummies to another location to prevent their further deterioration. Some Timbac mummies were on display at Kabayan National Museum, but “asked” to be returned to their original site, our Ibaloi hiking guide explained. While mummification is no longer practiced, present-day Ibaloi consider the mummy caves as sacred and still perform rituals in the area.

Photo from: philippine-evolution.com

REMINDERS:

1. The culturally sensitive way to visit the Timbac mummies is to hire an Ibaloi guide from Kabayan town; and to register and pay the entrance fee at the official caretaker’s house near the caves.

2. Mummy caves are sacred sites for the Ibaloi people. Avoid making loud noises and horsing around at the burial sites. Ask permission from your guide before taking photographs.

3. Respect the dead and prevent further deterioration of the mummies by refraining from touching them.

Photo from: http://joseph.goshenlandcapital.com/timbac-burial-caves-kabayan/