Decentering Chronologies: Integrating Indigenous Perspectives and Local Knowledge in Philippine Archaeology

Stephen B. Acabado

Department of Anthropology

Cotsen Institute of Archaeology

UCLA

In this presentation, I reassess the Three-Age System and its derivatives, questioning their fit within Philippine archaeology. My argument pushes for a chronology that incorporates local and Indigenous perspectives. I highlight the shortcomings of typological models that overemphasize lithics and ceramics and the urgent need for comprehensive data that can establish a cultural chronology germane to the Philippine narrative. I argue against the imposition of Eurocentric frameworks, like the Three-Age System, which fail to capture the distinct archaeological character of the Philippines. Instead, I acknowledge the contributions of local anthropologists and archaeologists who are dedicated to establishing a bottom-up approach to chronology-building.

This approach prioritizes behavioral models over typological ones and calls for the integration of Philippine archaeological data within the Southeast Asian regional framework. I stress the importance of moving beyond the European Three-Age System, proposing a periodization derived from within that honors the wealth of archaeological evidence, oral histories, and Indigenous knowledge systems. In this presentation, I aim to promote a more inclusive understanding of human-artifact relationships and challenge the regional and disciplinary boundaries that have historically characterized Philippine archaeology.

Bio:

Stephen Acabado is a professor of anthropology at UCLA, with a focus on Southeast Asia and the Philippines. His work disputes the age of the famed Ifugao rice terraces, presenting evidence that they are a relatively recent innovation from 400-500 years ago. This challenges previous historical narratives and offers new perspectives on sustainability and indigenous practices. Acabado integrates archaeological, ethnographic, and environmental sciences, revealing the Ifugao's sustainable agriculture contributions. He advocates for community-involved research, and underscores traditional knowledge's role in environmental management.