 The Aetas, pronounced as “eye-tas,” are among the earliest known migrants or

inhabitants of the Philippines. Over the years, the majority of their population managed
to keep their cultural practices and traditions. But sadly, as one of the indigenous groups
thriving in the country, they also face challenges such as displacement, marginalization,
and poverty.
 According to historians, the Aetas (also known as Agtas) are Australo-
Melanesians. Historical accounts suggest that they’re of the same group as those of
Aborigines in Australia and Melanesians of Solomon Islands. While they closely resemble
physical characteristics such as curly hair and dark colored skin, it is not clear as to how
they arrived in the Philippines.
 Aetas are characterized by their skin color, height, and hair type. They mostly have dark
to dark-brown skin, curly hair, and are usually below five-feet tall. Traditionally, Aetas
are hunting and gathering indigenous people. They’re actually among the most skilled
when it comes to jungle survival – they are even able to make use of plants as herbal
medicine and possess tools and weapons. While they’re nomadic, they are able to build
temporary houses made of sticks.
 Most Aetas practice monotheism and are animists. They worship a Supreme Being and
at the same time, also believe in environmental spirits. They believe that various places
in our environment are being governed by both good and evil spirits.
 As for their clothing, they wear plain and simple attire. Traditional Aetas, who are skilled
in weaving and plating, wear wrap around skirts or bark cloth (for women) and loin
cloths for men. They are also into music and the arts – making use of ornaments as
accessories and have ensembles of instruments to create melodious rhythms.