PALAWAN HILL TRIBES

 BATAK

The Batak people of Palawan, Philippines, have a

distinct cultural heritage that includes unique
aspects of craft, arts, and literature:

Craft: Batak craftsmanship includes traditional items

like woven baskets and mats made from local
materials such as rattan and bamboo. They are
known for their intricate designs and practical uses
in daily life. Their crafting techniques often reflect
their deep connection with the natural environment.
Arts: Batak art is traditionally expressed through
beadwork and tattooing. Their beadwork often
adorns clothing and ceremonial items, showcasing
geometric patterns and cultural symbols. Traditional
dances and music, though less documented, are
integral to their rituals and social gatherings.
Literature: Batak literature is predominantly oral. This includes traditional stories,
myths, and legends that are passed down through generations. These narratives often
center around creation myths, ancestral heroes, and moral lessons, preserving their
cultural heritage and collective memory.

 TAGBANWA

Craft: Tagbanwa craftsmanship includes

intricate weaving and basketry. They
produce items such as woven mats and
baskets from rattan and bamboo.
Traditional weaving also plays a role,
with patterns and techniques often
passed down through generations.
Literature: Tagbanwa oral literature
includes epic poems, myths, and folk
tales that are recited during ceremonies and gatherings. These narratives are integral in
preserving their history and cultural values.
Art: Traditional Tagbanwa art often features motifs inspired by nature and spiritual
beliefs. Their artwork can be seen in wood carvings, such as masks and figures used in
rituals, as well as in body adornments and traditional attire.

 CUYONON
Cuyonon arts, crafts, and
literature reflect the rich
cultural heritage of the
Cuyonon people from the
Cuyo Islands in the
Philippines. Here’s an
overview:

Arts and Crafts

Handwoven Textiles: Cuyonon
weaving traditions include
intricately designed fabrics,
often used for clothing and
ceremonial attire. Traditional
patterns and techniques are passed down through generations.
Carving and Woodcraft: Woodcarving is significant in Cuyonon culture, with artisans
creating intricate designs for religious icons, household items, and decorative pieces.
Pottery: Traditional pottery, often used for cooking and storage, features unique designs
and techniques reflective of local customs and practices.
Basketry: The Cuyonon people craft baskets from indigenous materials like bamboo
and rattan, with designs varying based on function and cultural significance.

Literature
Oral Traditions: Traditional Cuyonon literature includes oral narratives such as epic
tales, myths, and legends. These stories often explore themes of heroism, nature, and
ancestral wisdom.
Songs and Chants: Folk songs and chants play a crucial role in Cuyonon culture, used
in rituals, celebrations, and storytelling. They often convey historical and cultural
narratives.
Modern Literature: Contemporary Cuyonon literature may include written works in
Filipino or English that explore themes relevant to Cuyonon identity and experience.
 KALAMIANES
The Kalamianes Islands, located in the
Philippines, are known for their rich cultural
heritage, including their arts, crafts, and
literature. Here’s a brief overview:

Arts: Traditional arts in the Kalamianes

often include intricate beadwork, weaving,
and carving. Indigenous groups such as
the Tagbanua and Batak contribute to the
region’s artistic heritage with their unique
designs and techniques.

Crafts: Local crafts often involve materials

like bamboo, rattan, and seashells.
Handwoven textiles, baskets, and
decorative items made from these
materials are common. The use of natural
dyes and traditional patterns reflects the cultural identity of the communities.

Literature: The literature of the Kalamianes Islands may include oral traditions, such as
epic poems, songs, and stories passed down through generations. These works often
reflect the daily life, myths, and values of the indigenous peoples.

 KEN – UY

Arts: In many cultures, traditional arts

often include forms such as painting,
sculpture, and performance arts.
These may reflect the region’s history,
beliefs, and everyday life. For Ken-uy,
this could involve specific techniques,
styles, or themes that are distinct to its
local traditions.

Craft: Craftsmanship often includes

handmade items such as textiles,
pottery, or woodwork. These crafts can be significant in understanding the material
culture of the Ken-uy region, showcasing local skills, resources, and aesthetics.

Literature: Literary traditions might include oral storytelling, poetry, or written works that
reflect the history, values, and experiences of the people from Ken-uy. This could be in
the form of folklore, myths, or contemporary writing that addresses current social and
cultural issues.
MUSLIM GROUPS
 MARANAO

Crafts:
Noble Artisanship: Maranao crafts
include intricate weaving, metalwork,
and wood carving. Traditional
weaving, known as tapis, produces
beautiful textiles with geometric
patterns.
Nokos: Wooden and brass items like
the sala (small brass dishes) and
palang (decorative items) are
common, often used in ceremonial
contexts.
Okir: This is a distinct carving style featuring flowing, intricate designs, usually seen on
wooden items and architectural elements.
Arts:
Traditional Music: The Maranao people have a vibrant musical tradition featuring
instruments like the kulintang (a set of gongs) and gandingan (a type of drum).
Dance: Traditional dances, such as the Singkil, are performed during festivals and
ceremonies, often involving intricate footwork and elaborate costumes.
Architecture: The torogan, a traditional Maranao house, is renowned for its detailed
carvings and elevated structure, reflecting the community’s social hierarchy and artistic
prowess.
Literature:
Epic Poetry: The Maranao are known for their epic narratives such as the Darangan,
which recounts heroic deeds and cultural myths.
Oral Traditions: Storytelling and oral literature play a crucial role in preserving Maranao
history and values. These include folktales and proverbs that offer moral lessons and
cultural insights.
These elements reflect the Maranao people’s deep cultural heritage and their
contribution to the broader tapestry of Philippine art and literature.

 MAGUINDANAO

Arts and Crafts

Weaving: The Maguindanao people are known for their traditional weaving, especially
using the “tapis” (a traditional cloth) and “malong” (a tubular garment). These textiles
often feature intricate geometric patterns and vibrant colors.
Brassware: Traditional brasswork
includes items like “gongs” and
decorative pieces. These items often
carry intricate designs and are used
in various ceremonial contexts.
Woodcrafts: Skilled artisans craft
intricate wood carvings, including
traditional motifs and symbols.
Tattooing: Traditional tattooing,
known as “batek,” is practiced
among some Maguindanao
communities, with designs often
reflecting cultural and spiritual
significance.

Literature
Oral Traditions: Much of Maguindanao literature is transmitted orally. This includes epic
poems and stories that narrate the history, mythology, and values of the Maguindanao
people.
Epic Poems: The “Darangen” is a significant epic that is performed through chant. It
narrates the heroics and moral teachings of legendary figures.
Folktales: Stories such as “Si Kambing at Si Matandang Babae” reflect the moral
lessons and cultural values of the Maguindanao community.
The arts and literature of Maguindanao not only offer aesthetic pleasure but also serve
as a repository of the community’s history, values, and traditions.

 TAUSOG
The Tausug people, an indigenous group
from the Sulu Archipelago in the
Philippines, have a rich cultural heritage
reflected in their crafts, arts, and literature.

Crafts: Tausug crafts often involve intricate

weaving and embroidery. Traditional textiles
such as the sinulog (a type of woven cloth)
and malong (a tubular garment) are central
to their craft tradition. They also produce
tapis (traditional skirts) and use vibrant,
geometric patterns. Beadwork and
metalwork, including brass and silver
ornaments, are also prominent.

Arts: Tausug visual arts include sulu (wood

carving) and ikad (traditional painting). The
sulu often features elaborate designs and motifs. Traditional Tausug art also includes
decorated weaponry and ceremonial objects, reflecting their historical and cultural
significance.

Literature: Tausug literature encompasses oral traditions such as epic poetry and
folklore. The darangen is an example of an epic narrative that blends historical events
with mythical elements. Traditional storytelling, songs, and chants play a crucial role in
preserving their history and cultural values.

 SAMA
“Sama” in the context of arts, crafts, and literature
could refer to various things depending on the
specific cultural or artistic context.

Sama in Arts and Crafts:

In some cultural contexts, “Sama” could refer to
traditional or folk art forms, such as textiles, pottery,
or painting. The specifics would depend on the region
or tradition in question.

Sama in Literature:
“Sama” might refer to a specific literary work,
character, or theme in a certain tradition. For
instance, in some South Asian languages, “Sama”
can mean “peace” or “equanimity,” which might be
reflected in literary themes.

 YAKAN
Arts and Crafts:

Textiles: The Yakans are renowned

for their intricate weaving techniques.
They produce vibrant, handwoven
fabrics using traditional backstrap
looms. These textiles often feature
geometric patterns and bright colors.
Beadwork: Yakan artisans create
detailed beadwork, which is used in
jewelry and decorative items. The
beadwork often incorporates
traditional motifs and patterns.
Woodcraft: The Yakan also engage in woodworking, crafting items like traditional tools
and household objects, often decorated with intricate carvings.
Literature:

Oral literature: Yakan literature is predominantly oral, consisting of epic poetry,

proverbs, and stories that are passed down through generations. These oral forms often
carry moral lessons, cultural values, and historical narratives.
Folktales: Their folktales include stories about mythical creatures, legendary heroes,
and moral tales that reflect their worldview and cultural beliefs.

 BADJAO

The Badjao, also known as the Bajau or

Sama-Bajau, are a seafaring ethnic group from
the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Their
arts, crafts, and literature reflect their maritime
lifestyle:

Arts and Crafts:

Boat Building: The Badjao are skilled in
crafting traditional boats, such as the “lepa,”
which are essential for their seafaring life.
Weaving: They produce woven mats, baskets,
and clothing using local materials. Their
weaving often features intricate patterns and
vibrant colors.
Tattooing: Traditional tattooing is significant,
with designs that symbolize status,
achievements, and cultural heritage.
Literature:

Literature: Badjao literature is primarily oral, including epic tales, songs, and chants
that recount historical events, myths, and moral lessons.
Storytelling: Their stories often involve legends of sea creatures and adventures,
reflecting their deep connection to the ocean.
These cultural expressions are crucial to preserving the Badjao’s unique maritime
heritage and community identity.

 JAMA MAPUN
The Jama Mapun, also known as the Mapun or Cebuanos, are an ethnic group from the
Sulu Archipelago in the Philippines. Their arts, crafts, and literature are deeply
connected to their island and maritime way of life:
Arts and Crafts: Weaving: Jama
Mapun are known for their intricate
weaving. They create traditional
textiles like the “tapis” (a type of
wraparound skirt) and other
garments with elaborate patterns,
often using vibrant colors.
Beadwork and Embroidery: They
produce decorative items and
garments adorned with beadwork
and embroidery. These often
feature traditional motifs and
symbols.
Boat Building: Like other seafaring
groups in the region, Jama Mapun are skilled in constructing traditional boats used for
fishing and travel.

Literature: Jama Mapun literature is predominantly oral, including epic poetry, folk
tales, and songs. These oral forms pass down historical narratives, cultural values, and
moral lessons.
Songs and Chants: Their songs and chants play a significant role in rituals,
celebrations, and daily life, reflecting their maritime culture and traditions.
The arts and literature of the Jama Mapun are integral to their cultural identity and the
preservation of their heritage.

 SANGIL

The Sangil, also known as the Sangil or the

Sangihe, are an indigenous group primarily found
in the Sangihe Islands of Indonesia and in parts of
the northern Philippines. Their arts, crafts, and
literature reflect their cultural heritage and
maritime lifestyle:

Arts and Crafts:

Weaving: The Sangil are skilled weavers who
produce textiles with traditional patterns and
colors. Their weaving often incorporates
geometric designs and is used in clothing and
ceremonial attire.
Wood Carving: They create intricate wood
carvings for both functional items and decorative
purposes. These carvings often feature traditional
motifs and symbols.
Metalwork: Traditional metalwork includes the crafting of tools, ornaments, and
ceremonial objects, often decorated with detailed designs.

Literature:Sangil literature is largely oral, consisting of myths, legends, and folktales

passed down through generations. These stories often include themes related to the
sea, spirits, and ancestral heroes.
Songs and Chants: Their oral traditions also include songs and chants used in rituals
and ceremonies, reflecting their connection to their environment and spiritual beliefs.

 IRANUN

The Iranun people,

indigenous to the
southern Philippines,
particularly the Mindanao
region, have a rich cultural
heritage reflected in their
arts, crafts, and literature.

Arts and Crafts:

Textiles: Iranun weaving is

renowned for its intricate
patterns and vibrant
colors, often used in
traditional garments and
ceremonial attire. The
“sinalung” and “sinamay”
fabrics are notable examples.
Metalwork: They create finely crafted brass and silver jewelry, including intricate
“sungkit” (hairpins) and “kalombang” (earrings).
Woodcarving: Traditional wooden objects, including “bai” (decorative items) and
“sarimanok” (mythical bird sculptures), display the Iranun’s skilled craftsmanship.
Literature:

Literature: Iranun literature is primarily oral, encompassing epic tales, poetry, and
folklore. These stories often involve heroic figures, supernatural beings, and moral
lessons.
Epics: The “Derangen” epic is a significant piece of Iranun literature, highlighting the
valor and traditions of the Iranun people through a series of chants and stories.
The Iranun’s cultural expressions are deeply intertwined with their social and spiritual
life, reflecting their history and values.
 MOLBOG

The Molbog people are a

smaller ethnic group in the
Philippines, particularly located
in the southern part of
Mindanao. Their culture, like that
of many indigenous groups,
includes unique arts, crafts, and
traditions.

Arts and Crafts

Textiles: The Molbog are known
for their traditional weaving,
creating cloth with distinctive
patterns and colors.
Crafts: They produce various
handmade items, such as
baskets and mats, using natural
materials like rattan and
bamboo.
Cultural Practices:

Oral Literature: Their oral traditions include folk tales, chants, and songs that reflect
their history and values.
Rituals and Festivals: Molbog rituals often involve elaborate ceremonies and dances
that are integral to their community life.
These aspects of Molbog culture highlight their connection to their environment and
traditions.

 KALIBUGAN
-a term often associated
with the artistic and
cultural expressions of the
Bugkalot people, an
indigenous group from the
Philippines. Their arts,
crafts, and literature reflect
a deep connection to their
environment, traditions,
and spiritual beliefs.

Arts and Crafts:

Textiles: Traditional
weaving techniques
produce intricate patterns and designs on fabrics used for clothing and ceremonial
purposes.
Wood Carving: Carvings often depict spiritual symbols, animals, and ancestors,
showcasing skilled craftsmanship.
Pottery: Handcrafted pottery is used for everyday purposes and ceremonial occasions.
Literature:

Literature: Stories, myths, and legends are passed down through generations orally.
These narratives often convey moral lessons and historical accounts.
Songs and Chants: These are integral to rituals and storytelling, preserving cultural
history and values.

 MUSLIM

Arts
Calligraphy: Highly esteemed in Islamic culture,
it often features verses from the Quran. Different
styles include Naskh, Thuluth, and Diwani.
Architecture: Notable examples include
mosques, with intricate tile work and geometric
patterns, such as the Alhambra in Spain and the
Great Mosque of Samarra in Iraq.
Miniature Painting: This art form flourished in
Persian and Mughal cultures, depicting historical
and mythological scenes with vivid colors.

Crafts
Textiles: Famous for intricate designs, carpets
(like Persian rugs) are a prominent example,
showcasing detailed patterns and vibrant colors.
Pottery: Islamic pottery often features elaborate
glazes and calligraphic or geometric designs.
Metalwork: Intricate designs on items like lamps,
bowls, and doors highlight skilled craftsmanship,
often using brass and copper.

Literature
Poetry: Poets like Rumi and Hafiz are celebrated for their mystical themes and
exploration of love and spirituality.
Prose: The “One Thousand and One Nights” (Arabian Nights) is a famous collection of
stories blending fantasy and moral lessons.
Philosophy and Science: Works by scholars like Al-Farabi, Avicenna, and Al-Ghazali
merged Islamic thought with classical philosophy, influencing various fields.
Together, these elements showcase the profound contributions of Muslim cultures to
global heritage, emphasizing spirituality, beauty, and intellectual pursuit.
 PALAWANI

Arts
Textiles: Traditional weaving,
particularly with materials
like rattan and cotton,
showcases vibrant colors
and intricate patterns, often
depicting local stories and
nature.
Sculpture: Woodcarving is
prominent, with artisans
creating figures and masks
used in rituals and
ceremonies.

Crafts
Bamboo and Rattan Work:
Common in daily life, these materials are crafted into various functional and decorative
items, such as baskets and furniture.
Beadwork: Indigenous groups create jewelry using local materials, often incorporating
traditional motifs and designs.

Literature
Oral Traditions: Stories, myths, and legends passed down through generations are
central to Palawani literature, often conveying moral lessons and cultural values.
Modern Literature: Contemporary writers from Palawan explore themes of identity,
nature, and social issues, contributing to
the broader Filipino literary landscape.
The blend of these elements highlights the
Palawani people’s deep connection to
their environment and cultural heritage.

 KALAGAN

Arts: Kalagan arts often include traditional

music and dance, characterized by vibrant
costumes and rhythmic movements that
reflect their connection to nature and
spirituality. Their visual arts can be seen in
intricate designs on textiles and traditional
tattoos.
Crafts :Kalagan craftsmanship is evident in weaving, pottery, and wood carving. They
produce beautifully woven mats, baskets, and clothing, often adorned with symbolic
patterns. Additionally, their intricate beadwork is significant in cultural and ceremonial
contexts.

Literature
Kalagan literature comprises oral traditions, including folklore, myths, and proverbs that
convey moral lessons and cultural values. These stories often highlight the community’s
relationship with the environment, ancestors, and deities, passed down through
generations.

Overall, Kalagan arts, crafts, and literature reflect a deep appreciation for nature and
community, preserving their identity and traditions amidst modern influences.