The Ancient Tribes of the Mountains in Bukidnon Philippines

Summary

In this captivating documentary, the Higaonon tribe of Mintapod invites viewers to experience their rich cultural heritage. The film explores their sacred rituals, such as the Mamaon, which unites people through ancestral prayers, and delves into their unique customs like weaving and rice wine making. The narrative also highlights the tribe's fight for their ancestral land rights through the granting of the CADT. Through the eyes of community leaders like Amay Matangkilan, we learn about the tribe’s deep connection to their land, their way of life, and the responsibility they feel to share their traditions with the world.

Takeaways

• 😀 The group visited the Higaonon tribe in Bukidnon to learn about their culture and traditions.
• 😀 The tribe introduced the 'Mamaon' ritual, which symbolizes unity and connection between visitors and locals.
• 😀 The Mamaon ritual involves a prayer to the ancestors and a cleansing process for outsiders, signified by placing hands in blood.
• 😀 The tribe practices traditional food sharing during rituals, and visitors are welcomed with meals prepared by the community.
• 😀 The 'Galang Ha Bukala,' a brass bangle given by the Datu, is believed to ward off evil spirits and signifies trust from the tribe.
• 😀 The Higaonon tribe values peaceful relations with neighboring communities and strives to maintain harmony with others.
• 😀 The tribe’s ancestral domain (CADT) was awarded after efforts led by Datu Amay to protect their land from external threats.
• 😀 The Higaonon people prioritize preserving natural resources, and their traditions reflect a deep respect for the environment.
• 😀 Weaving is a major tradition among Higaonon women, where each design and color holds cultural significance.
• 😀 The women of the community view weaving as both a livelihood and a cultural duty, with some weavers making special garments used in ceremonies.
• 😀 The tribe also produces traditional rice wine called 'Langkuga,' which is an important part of their social and ceremonial life.

Q & A

What is the significance of Mamaon in the Higaonon tribe?

Mamaon is a ritual performed by the Higaonon tribe to unite people's hearts, whether they are locals or visitors. It is an essential part of entering their community, symbolizing the tribe's plea to their ancestors for protection and blessings for visitors.

Why is the Mamaon ritual considered an obligation for visitors?

The Mamaon ritual is an obligation for visitors to formally gain permission to enter the community. It also serves as a cleansing ritual, allowing outsiders to shed the influences they bring from the outside world.

What role does the chicken sacrifice play in the ritual?

The chicken sacrifice is believed to serve as a messenger, carrying the prayers of the people to their ancestors in the afterlife. It is an integral part of the ritual, allowing the community to communicate with their ancestors.

What is the significance of the 'Galang Ha Bukala' brass bangle?

The 'Galang Ha Bukala' is a sacred brass bangle given by the Datu (tribal leader) to visitors. It is believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits, symbolizing protection and trust from the tribe.

How did the Higaonon tribe come to establish Sitio Mintapod?

Sitio Mintapod was established when Amay and other Higaonon people decided to settle there in 1976. Initially, the place was sacred and not intended for homes, but after some outside religious groups came without permission, Amay and his group decided to stay and build homes to protect the area.

What is the CADT, and how did it benefit the Higaonon tribe?

The CADT (Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title) is a legal document granting indigenous communities ownership and protection of their ancestral lands. The Higaonon tribe successfully fought for their CADT to safeguard their land, ensuring it could not be easily taken by outsiders.

Why was Amay Matangkilan dedicated to securing the CADT for his people?

Amay was deeply committed to protecting his people's land and natural resources. He fought for the CADT to ensure the Higaonon tribe's land was preserved for future generations, even traveling long distances to verify boundaries and consult with neighboring leaders.

What is the cultural significance of weaving in the Higaonon community?

Weaving, especially of hinabol, is a deeply ingrained tradition in the Higaonon community. Only certain women, known as Bae, are allowed to weave, and it holds spiritual and cultural importance. The weavings are used for special occasions and can serve as offerings or dowries.

What are the roles of Bae in the Higaonon community?

The Bae are master weavers in the Higaonon community, entrusted with the responsibility of creating traditional garments like hinabol. These weavings are considered sacred, and only those authorized by the community can practice this art.

How do the Higaonon people view their relationship with neighboring communities?

The Higaonon people value peace and cooperation with neighboring communities. Amay, the tribal leader, has emphasized maintaining good relations through dialogue and understanding, ensuring that there is no aggression or conflict with others.