Lecture on Dr. Alicia Magos’s Research on Panay Bukidnon

Introduction to Dr. Magos’s Expeditions

• Initial Exploration (1988-1989):
  • Dr. Alicia Magos explored Central Panay for 10 days with NCIP Region 6 field personnel.
  • Target was interior Tapas Capiz.
• Subsequent Expeditions (1991-1992):
  • Organized a team including UPV Iloilo research assistants and a local guide.
  • Funded by various agencies due to the lack of research in the area.

Findings on Panay Bukidnon

• Population:
  • Descendants of mountain people previously known as Montes, Mundos, Sulod.
  • Theorized migration from coast to mountain following rivers Panay and Halawud.
• Cultural Identity:
  • Established ethnic identity of Panay Bukidnon.
  • Names like Halawudnon, Panayanon linked to sustenance sources (rivers).

Lifestyle and Economy

• Housing:
  • Elevated one-room houses made of bamboo and nipa.
• Agriculture and Livelihood:
  • Engage in farming (rice, root crops, coffee, abaca).
  • Make charcoal and trek to markets using "Tuang Tuangan."

Traditional Tools and Practices

• Household Tools:
  • Sanduko (knife), Lusong and Halo (mortar & pestle), Tagad (digging tool).
• Farming:
  • Use of traditional tools and methods for planting and harvesting.

Cultural Practices and Traditions

• Epic Chanting (Sugidanon):
  • Oral literature handed down by Binukot (kept maidens).
  • Themes include romance, adventure, and social values.
  • Notable characters: Humadapnon, Labawdungun, Malitungyawa.
• Traditional Skills and Arts:
  • Weaving, Binanog dancing, embroidery (panobok).
  • Use of musical instruments like the gong, litgit, kujapi.

Notable Figures

• Federico Caballero:
  • Gamaba awardee for epic literature.
  • Master of Sugidanon, from a lineage of epic chanters.

Preservation Efforts

• Documentation and Publication:
  • Dr. Magos facilitated digitalization and transcription of epics.
  • Translations into Kinaray-A, Filipino, and English.
  • Planned publication by the UP Press.

Importance and Legacy

• Cultural Heritage:
  • Preservation of Panay Bukidnon culture and recognition as indigenous group.
  • Continuation of tradition through education and cultural propagation.

Conclusion

• Dr. Magos’s work has significantly contributed to the understanding and preservation of Panay Bukidnon culture.
• Encourages ongoing research and cultural efforts.