Rambeng: Isang Natatanging Uri ng Pag-aasawa ng mga Manuvu at ang Impluwensiya ng Bagong Panahon

Rambeng: A Unique Form of Marriage among the Manuvu and the Influence of Modern Times

Abstract

This research aims to provide an understanding of the non-material culture of the Manuvu people in Kitaotao, Bukidnon, to every Filipino citizen. It focuses on a unique form of marriage that is gradually disappearing over time. It also seeks to answer the following questions: (1) What is the unique form of marriage of the Manuvu people in Kitaotao, Bukidnon?; (2) What are the processes involved in the type of marriage practiced by the Manuvu in Kitaotao, Bukidnon?; and (3) What is the influence of modern times on the type of marriage of the Manuvu in Kitaotao, Bukidnon? The research was conducted using an inductive and descriptive approach to analyze and present the results of the study, which involved interviews and structured verbal interactions within the Manuvu community for data gathering. These participants were selected because the Manuvu people, belonging to the seven tribes of Bukidnon, have unique marriage customs. From the analysis, it was discovered that the unique form of marriage among the Manuvu in Kitaotao, Bukidnon, is called "rambeng." It was also found that rambeng involves a distinct preparation process among the indigenous Manuvu. In reality, rambeng or the marriage of the Manuvu often involves agreements between the parents of both parties in the form of ginsa (request), kagun (bridewealth), and apa (wedding feast). It was also revealed that this marriage process of the Manuvu has been influenced by modern times since some indigenous individuals have become exposed to modern marriage practices, especially with the implementation of laws pertaining to women and youth (VAWC) and the modern marriage practices seen in society and on social media. However, there are still some indigenous Manuvu who adhere to their traditional marriage customs. It can be concluded that rambeng is one of the unique forms of marriage among the indigenous Manuvu in Kitaotao, Bukidnon, followed by some indigenous people as part of their culture despite the changing times. It is hoped that these unique cultures will be documented to preserve and share them with the next generation as part of Bukidnon literature.