Bagobo

Posted on April 30, 2015

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SONIA D. MANGUNE

The Bagobo constitute one of the largest groups among the indigenous peoples of
southern Mindanao. They are composed of three (3) sub-groups, namely the
TAGABAWA, the CLATA or GUIANGAN and the UBO. Although they belong to one
socio-linguistic group, BAGOBO, they also differ in some ways, such as the dialects,
dance steps, costumes and their color preferences to mention a few.

They are referred to as ethnic because they are the people whose distinctive identity
is rooted in history. From the beginning and up to the present, the Bagobo are the
predominant inhabitants of the vast areas extending from the west coast of Davao Gulf
to the high reaches of Davao’s famous and significant mountain ranges of Mt. Apo or Apo
Sandawa to the tribal people.

Apo Sandawa happens to be the sacred grounds of the Bagobo since time
immemorial, valued as one among the group’s richest cultural heritage. It is the homeland
of the world-known Philippine eagle as well.

Today, changes can be easily observed and it is due to the influences of foreign
cultures such as those of the Spaniards, Japanese, Americans and other neighboring
countries. Lately, the existence and encounters between the CPP-NPA, the military
forces and other armed groups in their ancestral domain/lands forced them to adapt and
accept realities surrounding them in their struggle for survival.

These encounters also ended or drastically diminished some of the traditions, beliefs
and practices and even the culture itself.

Its political structure was composed of the Chieftains called “Matanum,” the Council
of Elders, the Magani’s, the Babaylans and the slaves called “Al-lang” in the native
dialect. The Datu can have as many wives as he can but upon the recommendation and
approval of the first wife. In marriage, age is not an issue for as long as arrangements
and settlements are reached, agreed upon and complied with by both parties. All conflicts
and problems are finally addressed and resolved by the Chieftain with the Council of
Elders.

Food is abundant enough to be able to supply the community for the next harvest
season. the weavers are able to supply the needs for clothing. In fact, a Bagobo weaver,
Salinta Monon, won this years’ Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) for her
handloom weaving, a proof of the Bagobo artistry and craftsmanship. Environmental
preservations and utilization of natural resources are properly dealt with by the people
according to their tradition, practices and culture.

Todays’ Bagobo have gone a long way. Though mostly are still in the
hinterlands. There are also others who had become professionals such as doctors,
nurses, teachers, accountants, lawyers, government employees and officials.

About the Author:

Sonia D. Mangune is a member of the District Federation of Tribal Councils and is
president of IPS Council for Children. She works as Records Officer at the Mayor’s
Office, Davao City.