The exact difference between the Central Ifugao and the Kiángan beliefs
is not an easy matter to determine. There has been much mixture between
the two peoples accompanied by a corresponding exchange of ideas. The
effect of this exchange in some cases has been to produce a deceptive
similarity in beliefs and myths that originally were fundamentally
different; while in other cases myths that were originally the same
have been so greatly differentiated in the two areas that their unity
can scarcely be recognized.
However, it would seem that some basic differences really exist, and
the probability is that they are survivals from the ancient cultures
of the peoples who went to make up the present distinctly composite
Ifugao group. But the evidence at hand is not sufficient to warrant
a full discussion of this question here, and I shall merely cite one
example. Kiángan myths are nearly always told from the standpoint
of the gods, and have to do with the dealings of the gods with one
another and with men. On the other hand, Central Ifugao myths are
told from the standpoint of men in their relations and dealings with
the gods. This will be made plain by a comparison of the following
Central Ifugao myth with the Origin of the Ifugaos previously given.