GE ELECT 2: PHILIPPINE INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES

History, Culture, Traditions, and Superstitous Beliefs of BAGOBO

Presented by: GARCIA, KIERBY RYAN U. OCTOBER 28, 2023 ( VIRTUAL)
The Bagobo people are an indigenous ethnic group in the Philippines,
primarily residing in the Davao region of Mindanao. Here's an
overview of Bagobo history, origin, culture, traditions, and examples
of superstitious beliefs:

A. History:

 The Bagobo people have a long and rich history in the

Philippines, with their roots tracing back thousands of years.
 They have a history of resisting foreign influences, including
Spanish colonization.
 The Bago region in Mindanao has a complex history of cultural
interactions with neighboring groups.

B. Origin:

 The Bagobo people are believed to be descendants of

Austronesian-speaking migrants who settled in the Philippines
thousands of years ago.
 They have their own languages, which belong to the
Austronesian language family. Variations of the Bago language
are spoken among different Bagobo groups.
C. Culture:

 Bagobo culture is characterized by a strong connection to

nature, with agriculture, hunting, and gathering being essential
to their way of life.
 Traditional Bago clothing often includes garments made from
woven materials, with specific designs varying among different
Bagobo groups.
 Music and dance are integral to Bagobo culture, with traditional
instruments like gongs, bamboo instruments, and drums used
in performances.
  The Bagobo people have a rich tradition of oral storytelling,
myths, and legends that convey their history and cultural
values.
D. Traditions:

 Bagobo communities have their own systems of governance

and leadership, often led by respected elders and traditional
leaders.
 Rituals and ceremonies are an essential part of Bagobo life,
including those related to agriculture, harvest festivals,
weddings, and healing rituals.
 Bago agriculture includes swidden or slash-and-burn farming
and the cultivation of various crops and vegetables.

E. Examples of Superstitious Beliefs:

 Anito: Like many indigenous Filipino groups, the Bagobo people

believe in spirits and deities, including "anito." These spirits are
believed to reside in natural elements such as trees, rocks, and
rivers. Rituals and offerings are conducted to seek their
protection and blessings.
 Tabi-Tabi Po: The Bagobo people use the phrase "Tabi-tabi po"
to ask for permission from spirits or beings when entering
natural environments, showing respect to avoid disturbing the
spirits.
 Dream Interpretation: Dreams are often seen as messages
from the spiritual realm and are interpreted for guidance or
omens.
 Protection Charms: Amulets, talismans, and charms are
common in Bagobo culture. These charms are believed to
protect against harm, ward off evil spirits, and bring good
fortune.
 Divination: Some Bagobo communities practice divination for
various purposes, including healing and decision-making. This
can involve the use of natural objects or rituals to gain insight
into future events.
 These are some of the superstitious beliefs commonly held by
the Bagobo people. While there are commonalities in their
beliefs and practices, variations exist among different Bagobo
groups and communities, reflecting their unique cultural
identities and histories.