Kapagintaw Pictorial (IMCC Grounds)

Tribal Dances (mga katutubong sayaw)

Mindanao, the Philippines' southernmost island, is the country's cultural melting pot. It houses influences from Spain, China, Indonesia, and the Middle East. Although Mindanao carries a strong flavor from other lands, there are people who have lived there before it became a breeding ground of foreign trade. TRIBES such as the T'boli, Bilaan, Manobo, Bagobo, and other inhabit the vast regions of Mindanao.

Like their Northern Luzon counterparts, these groups honor pagan gods for the fruits and trials of daily life. What distiguishes them from other tribes in the Philippines is their intricate craftsmanship in metal, clothing and jewelry. These tribes pride themselves in their concept of beauty and are known for creating colorful sets of jewelry and clothing out of dyed pineapple and banana fibers with are showcased in their traditional dances.

Muslim Dances

Aside from the colorful contributions of its regional tribes, Mindanao is home to the largest cultural minority in the Philippines - the MUSLIMS. Brought by Javanese and Middle Eastern traders, Islam is the religion of approximately 20 percent of the Philippine population.

They are known for their mysticism, royalty, and beauty which are evident in their music and dances. Accompanied by the agong and kulintang, Filipino Muslim dance is marked by intricate hand and arm movement along with shimmering costumes.