MISA, KRISTINE JOY C.

BECED 1ST YEAR EC11 Task 3

TRIBAL TAGBANUA
The Tagbanua are considered as one of the oldest ethnic groups in the Philippines.
Research has found that the Tagbanua people may be descendants of the Tabon
Man – remains found in the Philippines dating from more than 16,500 years ago The
Tagbanua are thought to be related to the Tabon Man, a 16,500-year-old human
skeleton that was discovered in a cave in Palawan. Until very recently, they
remained isolated in these remote locations, with little contact with the Spanish
colonists of the Philippines, the Americans, or the Filipino government until the 20th
century, when Palawan and Coron began to see a huge wave of migration from
around the country they may be one of the original inhabitants of the Philippines. The
Tagbanua live on this beach in Coron Island, but it’s far away from the well-known
tourist sites such as Kayangan Lake and Twin Lagoons. For this occasion, a cultural
display for myself and a few other travelers who are visiting; a few local families have
invited their relatives from neighboring beaches too. They prepare for a traditional
dance.
Marriage among the Tagbanua is a multi-step process that is intrinsically part of the
tribal tradition. Before the actual exchange of vows, the families involved, the nobles
(usba) and bagerals meet to discuss the terms of marriage. There is a form of inquiry
about the civil status of both parties to make certain that there are no binding legal
responsibilities. The family of the bride might ask for a dowry which can be monetary
or livestock for farm use. The requests are not exorbitant or limiting. There usually is
a compromise agreeable to the involved families. Once an agreement is made, the
wedding ceremony commences with a "lambay", a ritual, offered to the gods to bless
the union. The Masikampo, the supreme leader, solemnizes the wedding as is the
custom. As part of the event, there is food, "tabad" (rice wine) and a lot of dancing
and "uyman" (singing).
Tagbanua are the most dominant indigenous Group in Palauan known for their
PAGDIDIWATA the rituals include the drinking of rice wine using bamboo straws
from stoneware jars.
Pagdiwata ("imploring the aid of the supernatural") is a Tagbanua dance to mend
warring factions. The babaylan becomes possessed and whisks coconut leaves to
drive away harmful spirits.
Tarek, the babaylan hears the closing drum and babandil gong. As the community
celebrates, she performs a ritual to prevent illness. Kalooban is the final thanksgiving
for a bountiful harvest.
They greet and respect elderly at their tribe they bow and say hello to them.
Tagbanuas are well mannered and welcoming whenever there is a tourist or visitor,
they welcome it like he or she is part of the tribe.