Iba, Zambales

The Aetas are considered the earliest inhabitants of Zambales. The Aetas are believed to have been living in Zambales for thousands of years, adapting to the mountainous and forested terrain.

The precolonial communities in Zambales engaged in a variety of economic activities suited to their environment. The Aetas, for instance, practiced hunting and gathering as their primary means of subsistence. They relied on the rich biodiversity of the region, hunting wild animals and gathering fruits, roots, and other edible plants.

The inhabitants of Zambales, being part of a larger network of islands in the Philippines, have engaged in trade and interactions with neighboring regions. Coastal communities engaged in maritime trade, exchanging goods and cultural influences with nearby areas.

Like many indigenous peoples in the Philippines, the Aetas of Zambales had their own spiritual beliefs and practices. These often revolved around animism, where natural elements such as mountains, rivers, and trees were considered sacred. Rituals and ceremonies were conducted to appease spirits and seek their protection.

The arrival of Spanish colonizers in the 16th century marked a significant turning point in the history of Zambales. The Spanish colonization brought about changes in governance, culture, and religion that had lasting impacts on the indigenous peoples of the region. Despite this, the Aeta communities and their cultural heritage persist in Zambales, providing a glimpse into the precolonial history that shaped the province.

The roots of present-day Iba can be traced to the year 1611 when it was established by an Augustinian Recollect priest in the village of Paynauen. Originally inhabited by the Zambals, the community later saw an influx of migrating Ilocanos, leading to a blending of customs and traditions. In the hinterlands, the Aetas settled, with a significant population residing in Mt. Pinatubo.