Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Filipinos have a lot to celebrate in the past year.
Pinoy culture and homegrown talent took center stage, as we garnered accolades, dominated international competitions, and shared our heritage with the world.
CNN Philippines wraps up some of the country’s biggest lifestyle stories that have made a global impact in the fields of culture, food, and tourism this year.
Filipino heritage gains international recognition
Renowned Kalinga tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od gained even more recognition around the world as she graced the cover of Vogue Philippines’ beauty issue in April.
Dubbed as the last and oldest mambabatok of the Kalinga ethnic group, she has left her mark on the skin of thousands of visitors to Buscalan, imprinting her tribe’s symbols of beauty, bravery, and strength.
On the magazine cover, she can be seen in her simplest beauty with only red lipstick, a black top, some colorful beaded accessories, and of course, her tattoos that adorn her bosom and arms.
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