Final answer:
Whang-Od Oggay, known as Wang Od, is a prominent Filipino tattoo artist known for her traditional Kalinga tattooing called batek. She is important for preserving this ancient hand-tapping tattoo technique, which is an integral part of Kalinga culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
Whang-Od Oggay, widely known as Wang Od (or Whang-od), is a Filipino tattoo artist from Buscalan, Tinglayan, Kalinga, Philippines. She is famous for her mastery of Kalinga tattooing, also known as batek, which is a traditional form of tattoo art that involves hand-tapping designs into the skin using thorns, soot, and water. The significance of Wang Od lies in her role as a living link to the Kalinga community's culture and traditions, maintaining an ancient practice that dates back a millennium. Her work has not only made her an iconic figure in the Philippines but also gained international attention, marking her as a significant figure in the preservation of indigenous tattooing traditions.