The Pudong: The Traditional Igorot Way of Making a Sign or Marker

This is called a "pudung" or "pudong" in Kankana-ey. The leaves of a reed grass are tied into a distinctive knot. It's a traditional way of making a sign which can translate into several meanings. 

Such meanings include:

1. Don't pass or don't trespass. The "pudong" is used during "ngilin" or similar village rituals and observances wherein people aren't allowed to enter or exit a village. 

2. Don't enter. It means don't cross if placed beside a river or body of water. 

3. Beware or there's danger ahead. For example, a "pudong" will be placed near a dangerous cliff or landslide area to warn people. 

4. Don't touch or don't get. The "pudong" is placed near goods or other materials to tell people that these are already owned or claimed thus they shouldn't touch nor get them. 

This is commonly practiced to this day in many parts of the Cordillera region. In some parts of Eastern Mountain Province, they call it "pochong". 

What do you call the "pudong" in your place?