Iraya and Ilawod

 Iraya and Ilawod are terms deeply rooted in the cultural and geographical landscape of the Bicol region in the Philippines. They represent not just physical locations but also embody social, cultural, and historical nuances that have shaped the lives of the people living in these areas.

"Iraya" refers to the uplands, encompassing regions like Libon, Polangui, Oas, Ligao, Guinobatan, and Camalig. These upland communities were characterized by their isolation from each other due to the lack of road networks and the rugged terrain of forests and mountains. People in these areas relied on waterways for travel, either downstream (pailawod) or upstream (pairaya), utilizing boats, rafts, and other watercraft.

Due to the limited interaction with other communities, Iraya settlements developed as closely-knit clans, with intermarriages being common even among blood relatives. This led to a strong sense of kinship and a clannish nature among the upland people. The isolation also contributed to the evolution of various dialects within these communities, with words often having different meanings even within short distances.

On the other hand, "Ilawod" refers to places downstream of rivers, where communities like Daraga, Albay Viejo, Albay Nuevo, Legazpi (Sawangan), and Santo Domingo (Libog) thrived. These riverbank communities enjoyed more frequent interaction with neighboring villages due to the ease of travel along waterways. Marriages with other tribes were common, leading to linguistic and cultural exchanges that resulted in similarities in language and dialects among these communities.

The saying "waters unite us while mountains divide us" encapsulates the contrasting experiences of Iraya and Ilawod communities. While those along the riverbanks and seashores of Albay and neighboring areas shared common languages and cultures, those in the uplands were more isolated, leading to the development of distinct dialects and traditions.

Over time, however, advancements in transportation and infrastructure have blurred the boundaries between these regions. Migration and intermarriage have further intertwined the communities, diminishing the linguistic and cultural gaps that once existed. Today, despite the historical divisions between Iraya and Ilawod, the Bicol region stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its people in the face of geographical challenges and cultural diversity.