14 Agung • Number 3 • 2016
BLAAN The Blaan, one of the indigenous groups of southern Mindanao, can presently be found in the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, Davao Del Sur and Davao Occidental, and the city of General Santos. Traditionally, they inhabit the hills behind the west coast of Davao Gulf and the watershed of Davao and Cotabato. In very recent times, they have moved toward the coastal areas. There are several subgroups: Tagalagad, Tagcogon, Buluan, Biraan, Vilanes, and Balud. Anthropologist Dr. Jesus Peralta describes their basic culture as “dry cultivation of a broad range of food plants including rice, supplemented by food gathering and hunting…The same pattern of scattered settlements exists among the group although the houses generally remain within sight of each other near swidden fields… Each neighborhood is organized under a local datu who has autonomous authority over an area depending on his personal influence. The position is supposedly hereditary and follows a rule of the firstborn assuming the position.” The Blaan have their own language, classified in a group that includes the Tiruray and Tboli, which are distinct from the central Philippine group. The Blaan are traditionally animist, believing in a god called Dwata, capable of both good and evil. He is known as Fye Weh (the good one who lives in heaven), Sê Weh (the evil one who lives underneath the earth), and Mèlè (overlord who lives underneath the earth and bringer of death). The Blaans have been Christianized. They are known for their hand-weaving or mabal tabih using abaca fibers and ikat dyeing technique. (Reference: Glimpses: Peoples of the Philippines by Dr. Jesus T. Peralta, NCCA, 2000; Blaan by Datu Antonio P. Kinoc, NCCA, 2002; and Sarangani: Peoples and Cultures by Dr. Heidi K. Gloria, with Helen Lumbos, Betty Katug et al, Provincial Government of Sarangani, 2006)
Fulung Calingo Maluma Traditional elder and chieftain of the village of Lamlifew, who died in 2015 Datal Tampal, Malungon, Sarangani /Photo by Cocoy Sexcion
Utob, head cover
Saul, a common term for top or upper garment. It is made from hand-woven textile of abaca fibers, and embellished with cross-stitched embroidery (ansif). Upper garment of this embellishment is called saul ansif.
Salwal, a common term for pants or trousers. It is also made from hand-woven textile of abaca fibers, and embellished with crossstitched embroidery. Pants of this embellishment is called salwal ansif.