STRICTLY SPEAKING, there is no such term as cañao or “kanyaw” as has been popularized by lowland brethren which collectively refers to any ritual dancing by indigenous peoples of the Cordillera.
Let it be said that there are specific terms for each ritual or activity and all rituals of the Cordillera are sacred and oftentimes secret and not intended for public viewing because these are petitions or expressions of worship to the unseen God, the Adi-kaila. Many elders maintain that the God that is called upon in church is the same God they call upon in their rituals.