THE TAGBANUA

Masikampu Ignacio "Ampun" Joya Happy 121st Independence Day, Philippines!  We celebrate this occasion and the valiant people who fought for our freedom.  Schools have taught us about the battles and feats of Emilio Aguinaldo, Andres Bonifacio, Jose Rizal, Apolinario Mabini, Gregorio Del Pilar and Juan Luna. But have you heard the adventures of our local Tagbanua leaders?  The Tagbanua nation existed and fought wars even before the Spaniards came to the Philippines. Stories were handed down generations about fierce Tagbanuas who fought for their people. Local Tagbanua heroes were never recognized by the government for their contributions in history. Here are some of our Tagbanua unsung heroes: Kinuyu - He was a legendary leader and third on the Masikampu line after Rimundu. As written by Dr. Robert Fox, it was during Kinuyu's reign when the infamous raids by the Moros happened. Wearied by the attacks, Kinuyu and the Moro leader decided to have a duel amongst th

The Masikampo is the supreme leader of the Tagbanua and the Indigenous People of Palawan. The title and position is inherited and the selection is done only by the Usba e't Masikampo or the princes/nobles of the Masikampo. Here are the requisites to become a Masikampo: 1. Osol      Not everyone can be a Masikampo. One must have the bloodline of a Masikampo.  2. Adat     The Tagbanua is a nation that has a set of customary laws that is being followed to this day. A person must be knowledgeable of these customary laws to be qualified as Masikampo. 3. Tuturan     This requirement basically entails knowing the genealogy and history of the Masikampo. 4. Surugiden      A Masikampo is expected to be trained and interested in jural procedures. This can only be learned through exposure during meetings of the elders and taught by the Masikampo to his son/sons. Such procedures are intricate and involves diplomacy and use of old Tagbanua idioms to resolve conflicts. 5.