Honorable Mention / 2023 / Press / Feature Story
Pho-Phiah in Five Wang-Yes’ Patrolling Ritual, Wukan’s Jinghai Temple, Penghu
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PhotographerFo Tzu Tseng, Taiwan
Every large temple parade in Penghu has a scout running ahead the group, who is nicknamed as Baomazai or Pho-Phiah. He is usually a grateful volunteer, being in charge of avoiding traffic and informing people on the way.
A typical Pho-Phiah wears straw sandals, carries a paper umbrella (with a pork knuckle) on his shoulder, and ties a wine pot up to his belt. He also takes a sacred flag, a gong, and a bag full of lucky gifts like snacks or coins for everyone.
