A group of Indigenous Tao (Yami) voyagers from Taiwan’s Orchid Island embarked on a maritime journey to the Philippines this summer to retrace ancestral migration routes. The crew utilized a traditional wooden canoe, named "Ovayan" or "Golden Friendship," to travel from southeastern Taiwan toward the Batanes Islands in the northern Philippines.
The expedition aimed to replicate the seafaring methods used by ancient populations who migrated from Taiwan through the Pacific islands thousands of years ago. Participants stated the journey was an effort to connect with and preserve their seafaring heritage. Preparations for the voyage took place on Orchid Island before the crew departed in mid-June.
Anthropological research identifies Taiwan as the ancestral homeland of Austronesian-speaking peoples, who eventually settled in regions stretching from Madagascar to Easter Island. This modern voyage focuses specifically on the northernmost route connecting Taiwan to the Philippine archipelago. The crew relied on rowing and traditional navigation techniques to complete the passage.