##Tribe: Talaandig ( Philippines )##

The scenic province of Bukidnon in the northern Mindanao region is home to various indigenous groups. Alongside the Bukidnon, Higaonon, and Manobo, the Talaandig people are part of the Lumad, who comprise 24% of the total population of the province. Through the years, they have continued to work to preserve their culture amidst the threat of modernization. The tribe continues to thrive to this day despite the recent changes in the area surrounding their tribal home.

Known as the dwellers of slopes and steeps, the Talaandig tribe is one of the 18 major ethnolinguistic groupings classified as Lumad. Estimated to be more than 100,000 in population, the Talaandig tribe live in the sacred mountains of Kitanglad and Kalatungan, particularly in the municipalities of Lantapan and Talakag. The Talaandigs are fluent speakers of Inukit or Binukid, the tribe’s native dialect. At present, Talaandig culture is being handed down to future generations by the School for Living Tradition established by the Talaandig Cultural Center.

The Talaandig are grouped by clans but is headed by a single Datu. As the head of the tribe, the Datu oversees the whole community. Traditionally, a Datu is selected through his courage, accomplishments, and knowledge of the oral history and customs of the people. A ritual called panagulambung to inaugurate the leadership is performed along with the presence and approval of other elders in the tribe. The Datu’s main function is to mediate in conflicts to settle feuds for the peace and order in the community. Moreover, a Datu is responsible in leading the tribe during emergency situations.

• Ethic Groups Philippines