Batok is a difficult art to pass down, as mambabatoks are only allowed to teach within their bloodline. Whang-Od never had children, and many were afraid that her art would die with her. Almost ten years ago, however, Whang-Od began to teach her great niece, Grace Palicas.

 

Palicas' training began at age 10, and she has worked hard to learn as much of the ancient art as she possibly can. From understanding the complex meanings behind symbols and designs, to gaining coordination and skill to complete the tattoos, Palicas has been working to absorb as much as possible. 

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When Palicas left Buscalan in 2015 to go to college, Whang-Od began to teach Palicas' cousin Elyang Wigan. With tourism rising in the area, it was essential that Whang-Od had an assistant to help her with the sudden influx of tourists. Whang-Od doesn't speak English or Tagalog, so it is essential that she has someone with her to aid in communication.

 

As she ages, she has cut down on her tattooing. She no longer tattoos large designs, leaving that to either Palicas or Wigan, but she will still leave her signature three dots. Palicas, however, has taken Kalinga tattooing to a larger audience. She sometimes travels, bringing her tattooing to the West.

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Kalinga tattooing is growing within the community as well. Journalist Audrey Carpio and researcher Dr. Lars Krutak, counted at least 18 young apprentices when they visited Buscalan in 2023. Almost all of them women and girls.