Whang-ud and Coco Martin. Image:Instagram/@mr.cocomartin
World-renowned tattoo artist Whang-ud finally met her idol, Kapamilya actor Coco Martin, in person.
According to reports, Whang-ud finds joy watching the actor’s top-rating action-series “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano”. She even holds a vast collection of Coco Martin memorabilia including shirts, standees and photos.
Now, the iconic Kalinga elder has unleashed her inner fan girl and flew to Manila from her hometown in Buscalan to see her ultimate idol. She rode a helicopter to make the journey.
Photos of their meeting were uploaded on social media. Among those who publicized the photos were ABS-CBN News’ Jefferson Fernando and Martin himself.
Holding a bouquet of flowers, happiness is obviously reflected on her face. In one post, Martin wrapped his arm around the tattoo master.
She also got to meet and dine with the staff and crew of the show.
Whang-ud practices the age-old tradition of tattooing on visitors and tourists going up the mountains of Kalinga. The 100-year-old Igorot icon lives in a modest hut in the mountains where she practices her art.
Using only water and soot for her ink, she outlines the design on the skin of her client. She then uses bamboo sticks and lemon thorns, and performs what is locally called “batok” with precision.
In some cultures, tattoos signify an esteemed social standing. The more tattoos inscribed on one’s body, the higher his or her place is in the society. JB
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