THE TAGBANUA

The Tagbanua and Pala'wan tribes are known to be farmers and fishermen. Men and women toil to support the family and the images here show some of the crops they usually sell. Gum resins and upland rice used to be common trades until sanctions were placed against the tribes. Banana, sweet potatoes, seashells, fishes and sting rays are usually sold or bartered for other products deemed indispensable for mountain living.

   We would like to pay tribute to our parents. The Tagbanua and Pala'wan were raised well amidst of difficulties and poverty. The values we have been taught helped us in our endeavors in life. We will aspire to be beacons for the old and the young of the tribe. With the help of our Masicampo Ruben Joya, we will continue to be advocates for the Indigenous People in Palawan and the Philippine archipelago.

Daraet is one of the many festivities celebrated by the Tagbanua and Pala'wan tribes of Southern Palawan in the Philippines. Gongs, cymbals and drums are commonly seen and used. Bamboo flutes, local version of banjo and other percussion instruments are getting rare nowadays, but still around and kept by older members of the tribe.  Decades ago, the drums and gongs used to be big and usually used to announce meetings or events which transpired in the community. Story has it that when the Tagbanua Inagawan Masicampo died, the drumbeats were heard for miles alerting the people of his demise.  Please acknowledge this website and Masicampo Ruben C. Joya when you use the images here.