Manobos as a Part of the Lumad Group, Practices, and Continue to Count Elders Guide

by Cristine Canobas         

            Several mostly non-Christian and non-Muslim indigenous communities residing in Mindanao are together referred to as "lumad."  The Manobo people are just one of the 18 Lumad groups that can be found in Mindanao, although they have several subgroups that have somewhat different languages and customs. Manobo tribes have their own laws, customs, and rulings made by tribal chieftains and enjoy a degree of autonomy from the Philippine government (Datus). 

            The Manobo tribes all have somewhat comparable political frameworks. The group is headed by a ruler, Sultan. The royal and non-royal classes are below him. Each class depends on the others in various ways. The social and political facets of life are frequently intertwined. For instance, political leaders are necessary for many social occasions, including weddings. Both the bride and the groom are required to use the neighborhood datu (headman) if there is a negotiation for marriage.

            Elders have important responsibilities in our culture's marriages and weddings. The ideas of elders are virtually always accorded the weight they deserve, from the selection of the location and date to the list of sponsors. Even choosing a companion depends on the elders' preferences in certain societies. Although the practice is disliked in some countries, it has permeated our culture so thoroughly that acceptance out of respect for tradition has become the norm. Many of the organizations are battling a world that is changing. Their distinct cultures have been significantly impacted by external factors and one of those are the way marriage is being conducted.