"Isna Cordillera" by Johndel Ancheta is a Kankana-ey folk song that invites people to visit the Cordillera region of the Philippines. This song highlights the area's natural beauty and the rich Igorot culture, encouraging listeners to experience its unique traditions and lifestyle. Despite being relatively new, the song has quickly gained popularity for its engaging lyrics and melody, which aim to attract visitors and showcase what makes the Cordillera special.
In this article, we'll explore the lyrics of "Isna Cordillera" and provide a detailed interpretation of its meaning. We'll break down the themes and emotional impact to give you a clearer understanding of its significance. Additionally, we will feature a cover of the song by another Igorot artist, JC Clave, offering a fresh perspective on this popular new piece. Whether you're encountering "Isna Cordillera" for the first time or seeking to deepen your appreciation for this emerging Kankana-ey song, this guide will help you connect with its heartfelt message.
Lyrics of "Isna Cordillera" by Johndel Ancheta
Discover the lyrics to "Isna Cordillera," a Kankana-ey folk song by Johndel Ancheta. This song highlights the beauty and culture of the Cordillera region.
Verse 1
Awisek sika'y gayyem
ta enta en pasyaren
Din enda isto-istorya-en
ili simpli ngem mapteng
Nalikaw san danan
ngem mapnek ka sin mailam
Pintas nay dadama
riknam si masurpresa
Chorus
Isna isna Cordillera
Adu adu di mabuya
Manpasyar ka adam ma-um-uma
San kinapintas na ay
mang-awis en sika
Ya san seng-ew di ay dagem
ay mang-ayo si nemnem
San karasakas ya panaspas
di ginawang ay manleplepyas
Verse 2
Nu ammum abey ib-a
Isna di naanapan da
Puli naidumduma
Tataraki ya mistisa
Uray nu man mom-momma
ngem ma-aywanan da ka
Maga abey pulbos da
ngem napudno da en sik-a
Chorus
Isna isna Cordillera
Adu adu di mabuya
Manpasyar ka adam ma-um-uma
San kinapintas na ay
mang-awis en sika
Ya san seng-ew di ay dagem
ay mang-ayo si nemnem
San karasakas ya panaspas
di ginawang ay manleplepyas
Verse 3
Awisek sika'y kabsat
ta enta maki-watwat
Ta ek iparaman
sikriton di kaigorotan
Etag ay kaiimasan
kini-ing ya pinikpikan
Maga'y rekado na
ngem mapnek ka sin sabaw na
Chorus B
Isna isna Cordillera
Ayka, ayka, umali ka
Ta mailam din urnos da
Enkan maiganasan
tan enda manbibinnadang
Say ugali da ed nat-awan
Ay adi da malinglingan
tan inayan san abig ay inayan
Say endan e-egyatan
Translation and Meaning of the Lyrics of "Isna Cordillera" by Johndel Ancheta
In this section, we will translate the lyrics of "Isna Cordillera" line by line based on their context to help readers understand the nuances and deeper meaning of the song. This translation aims to clarify the song's themes and emotions, rather than provide a singable version.
Awisek sika'y gayyem ta enta en pasyaren
- Translation: I invite you, my friend, to come and visit
- Explanation: The singer is extending a personal invitation to the listener, encouraging them to visit the Cordillera region. This line emphasizes the warmth and friendliness of the invitation, addressing the listener as a friend.
Din enda isto-istorya-en ili simpli ngem mapteng
- Translation: The region they always talk about, simple yet precious
- Explanation: While "ili" typically means "hometown," in this context it refers to the broader region. The singer acknowledges that although the region may not be renowned or grand, it is valued and holds a special charm. This line emphasizes that the region, often discussed and praised, is appreciated for its modesty and unique appeal.
Nalikaw san danan ngem mapnek ka sin mailam
- Translation: The road may be winding, but you will be content with what you see
- Explanation: The singer acknowledges that while the journey might be challenging due to winding roads, the sights and experiences along the way will be rewarding and satisfying.
Pintas nay dadama riknam si masurpresa
- Translation: Its beauty is exceptional, and you will be pleasantly surprised
- Explanation: The singer emphasizes that the region's beauty is outstanding and will surpass expectations, offering a pleasant surprise to visitors.
Isna isna Cordillera, Adu adu di mabuya
- Translation: Here, here, in the Cordillera, there's so much to see
- Explanation: The singer invites the listener to visit the Cordillera region, emphasizing that it offers a wealth of sights and experiences.
Manpasyar ka adam ma-um-uma, San kinapintas na ay mang-awis en sika
- Translation: When you visit, you'll never get tired; its beauty will draw you in
- Explanation: The singer assures that the region's beauty is so captivating and inviting that visitors will continuously be drawn to it and never lose interest.
Ya san seng-ew di ay dagem ay mang-ayo si nemnem
- Translation: And the breeze that soothes the mind
- Explanation: The singer highlights the calming effect of the region's breeze, which contributes to a relaxing and peaceful experience.
San karasakas ya panaspas di ginawang ay manleplepyas
- Translation: As well as the rustling and splashing of the flowing river
- Explanation: This line describes the soothing sounds of the river, including its rustling and splashing, which enhance the serene atmosphere of the region.
Nu ammum abey ib-a, Isna di naanapan da
- Translation: If you know others, this is where they have settled
- Explanation: The singer mentions that if you are familiar with other people, you will find that they have chosen to settle in the Cordillera region.
Puli naidumduma, Tataraki ya mistisa
- Translation: A unique race, with handsome men and mestiza women
- Explanation: In this context, "tataraki" refers to the men in the region who are considered handsome. "Mestiza" traditionally means a person of mixed heritage, but here it describes women who have an appearance that resembles having foreign ancestry or a more refined look, even if they do not have mixed heritage. The line highlights the appealing appearance of both men and women in the region.
Uray nu man mom-momma, ngem ma-aywanan da ka
- Translation: Even if they chew "momma," they will still take good care of you
- Explanation: "Momma" is a traditional chew of the Igorot people. The singer emphasizes that, despite this traditional habit, the men will still take good care of their partners, showing their attentiveness and care.
Maga abey pulbos da, ngem napudno da en sik-a
- Translation: They may not use powders, but they are loyal to you
- Explanation: The term "powders" refers to makeup. The singer notes that while the women in the region might not use makeup, they are sincere and loyal.
Awisek sika'y kabsat, ta enta maki-watwat
- Translation: I'm inviting you, brother, to join the "watwat"
- Explanation: The singer is inviting the listener to participate in a "watwat," a communal gathering among the Igorot people where food is shared and enjoyed together. This line reflects the communal spirit and hospitality of the region.
Ta ek iparaman, sikriton di kaigorotan
- Translation: So that I can let you experience the secrets of the Igorot people
- Explanation: The singer wants the listener to taste and understand the unique aspects of Igorot culture, which are considered special or hidden secrets. This line highlights the desire to share cultural traditions and experiences.
Etag ay kaiimasan, kini-ing ya pinikpikan
- Translation: Etag, the most delicious, kini-ing, and pinikpikan
- Explanation: The singer mentions traditional Igorot dishes: "etag" (sun-dried meat), "kini-ing" (smoked meat), and "pinikpikan" (a specialty chicken dish). This line emphasizes the richness and variety of Igorot culinary traditions.
Maga'y rekado na, ngem mapnek ka sin sabaw na
- Translation: It may not have many ingredients, but you will be fulfilled just by the broth
- Explanation: The singer notes that while these dishes might not be complex or ingredient-rich, the simple broth is satisfying and fulfilling. This line underscores the comforting and satisfying nature of traditional Igorot food.
Isna isna Cordillera, Ayka, ayka, umali ka
- Translation: Here, here, in the Cordillera, come, come, you are welcome
- Explanation: The singer warmly invites the listener to visit the Cordillera region, emphasizing the region's hospitality and openness. This line conveys a welcoming atmosphere where visitors are encouraged to come and experience the region.
Ta mailam din urnos da
- Translation: So you can witness their unity
- Explanation: The singer highlights the opportunity for visitors to see the strong sense of unity and cooperation among the people of the Cordillera. This line underscores the communal values and social harmony in the region.
Enkan maiganasan, tan enda manbibinnadang
- Translation: You will be satisfied because they help one another
- Explanation: The singer assures that visitors will find satisfaction in the mutual aid among the people. "Binnadang" refers to a traditional Igorot spirit of mutual support and cooperation, emphasizing the positive impact this communal practice has on visitors.
Say ugali da ed nat-awan, Ay adi da malinglingan
- Translation: It is a culture from the past, they will not forget
- Explanation: The singer reflects on the enduring cultural practices that have been passed down through generations. Despite the passage of time, these traditions are preserved and remembered.
Tan inayan san abig ay inayan, Say endan e-egyatan
- Translation: Because it is a taboo, the belief in "inayan," it is respected
- Explanation: The line refers to "inayan," a traditional belief or taboo that is respected and upheld in the region. The singer emphasizes that these cultural beliefs and practices are deeply ingrained and respected by the community.
Summary of Lyrics Translation and Meaning
The song "Isna Cordillera" is a heartfelt invitation from the singer to explore the Cordillera region, emphasizing its unique cultural and natural beauty. The lyrics celebrate the region's welcoming atmosphere and the strong sense of unity among its people.
The singer invites the listener to visit the Cordillera, highlighting the simplicity and charm of the region. They describe the scenic beauty and the comforting experience of participating in communal gatherings, known as "watwat," where traditional dishes like "etag," "kini-ing," and "pinikpikan" are enjoyed.
The song also touches on the cultural values of mutual aid, or "binnadang," and the respect for traditional beliefs such as "inayan," which are integral to the Igorot way of life. Despite the simplicity of their customs and the traditional habits like chewing "momma," the people of the Cordillera are portrayed as caring and supportive, preserving their cultural heritage with pride and respect.
Overall, the song serves as a celebration of the Cordillera's rich cultural traditions and the genuine hospitality of its people, inviting others to experience and appreciate this unique and vibrant region.
Conclusion
"Isna Cordillera" by Johndel Ancheta is a heartfelt invitation to explore the Cordillera region. The song highlights the region's natural beauty, the communal spirit of its people, and their rich cultural traditions. It emphasizes the warmth of the people, the charm of their way of life, and their strong sense of community.
Through its lyrics, the song offers a glimpse into Igorot culture, showcasing their hospitality, traditional practices, and respect for their heritage. It invites you to experience the region's unique atmosphere and appreciate the simple yet meaningful aspects of life there, such as communal gatherings and traditional dishes.
"Isna Cordillera" is not just a celebration of the region but also a warm call for others to discover and enjoy the genuine hospitality and rich cultural traditions that make the Cordillera special.
Have you ever visited the Cordillera region or experienced its unique cultural practices? What elements of Igorot culture do you find most intriguing? How does the song "Isna Cordillera" influence your perspective on exploring new cultures? We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences!
