T'BOLI
T'boli or taboli are the peace loving people of Mindanao in Southern philippines. They are known as dreamweaver’s of the hand-woven Tnalak made of abaca fibers. Tbolis are found in three municipalities: Muhin in Kiamba and Maitum and Maasim in Sarangani province.
Culture Bearers: Boi Rosie Sula, Michael Angelo Yambok, Lyn Buti, Myrna Pula, Maria Todi
Kadal Tahaw
Tahaw bird is symbolic to the T’boli as it signifies planting and harvesting season.
Madal la Helos
Madal La Helos is a sacred ritual dance of the T’boli people that signifies healing, thanksgiving, and spiritual harmony. It is performed during important communal and ceremonial occasions as an expression of gratitude to the divine, ancestral spirits, and nature.
Madal Sloung be knibang - Dancers showing the beauty and colorful attire of Tboli Princess or Boi
Madal Tahu - True dance of the Tboli imitating the movement of Knaban the elder sister of Tudbulul, the Tboli mythical hero.
Madal Temelek
A sacred dance performed during the Tboli’s grand festival Mo Ninum, a celebration of mass wedding for couples and healing for families and Communities lasting 6 years. It was last celebrated in 1982. A combination of two dances are performed
Madal Soyow
Exemplifies the bravery of T'boli warriors as they protect the women in the community. To symbolize peace and unity, warriors execute the movements without placing the sword or shield on the ground which symbolizes death.
Helobung
In Tboli means “never ending joy” and also named as their yearly festival held every November to celebrate their rich culture and traditions.
Illustration by: Don Aguillo | Photo: This Is It Photography | Feature Image: Kimberly Requesto
Culture bearers: Boi Rosie Sula, Datu Allen Sula, Lyn Buti Lambago, Silid Awed
