Daan ya Abong ed Darawey (Old House in Brgy. Darawey)
Daan ya abong, literally meaning “old house” in Pangasinan, is a tangible immovable heritage structure located in Barangay Darawey, Bayambang, Pangasinan. Built in 1963, this ancestral home stands as a quiet testament to traditional craftsmanship, resilience, and family history, and continues to exist up to the present day.
Constructed primarily from yakal (Shorea astylosa) wood—a hardwood renowned for its durability and resistance to decay—the house reflects the builders’ deep understanding of local materials and environmental conditions. The structure is elevated, a practical design choice due to the area’s susceptibility to flooding. It occupies a total land area of 88 square meters and features three rooms, with floors likewise made from solid yakal wood. Glass-paneled windows and a single staircase leading to the raised living area complete its simple yet functional design.
The house was built approximately 55 years ago by the husband of Mrs. Maria Abalos, now 85 years old. Originally owned by the parents of Ms. Nelia Abalos, the property remained under her mother’s care after the passing of her father, preserving the house as a family legacy across generations.
Over the decades, the old house has withstood numerous natural calamities. According to Ms. Nelia Abalos, a severe flash flood in 1972 caused floodwaters to rise almost to the second floor of the house. The structure also endured a tornado in later years. Despite these challenges, the house remains standing—an enduring symbol of strength, foresight, and traditional building knowledge.
More than a dwelling today, the house is a living cultural marker that embodies the resilience of Bayambang families and the lasting value of indigenous construction practices.
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Mappers: Rolando Jr. B. Junio, Jayvee S. Mortel, Kian Gabriel P. Padua, Angelicka B. Mundo
Informant: Ms. Nelia Abalos
Culture Mapping Adviser: Mr. Christopher Gozum, Bayambang National High School
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