Material Culture Behind the Dances of the Higaunon in Bukidnon
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the role of material culture in the ethnic dances of Bukidnon, particularly among the Higaunon people. Specifically, it sought to answer how material culture, expressed through dance implements and attire, reflects the beliefs and practices of the community. Selected dances, namely Dinugso, Pamumulakaw, Pig-agawan, and Saut, were analyzed based on their representative beliefs. A descriptive qualitative design was employed in the study, guided by Indigenous methodology. Data were gathered through participant observation, informal interviews with community members, and content analysis. The findings revealed that material culture reflects the lifestyle, spirituality, and values of the Higaunon people. These traditions are preserved and cherished due to their deep reverence for Magbabaya, the supreme deity. Material culture in the dances serves as a bridge between ritual and belief, enabling communication with the spirit world and strengthening cultural identity. Based on the results, it is recommended that material culture not only be preserved in museums but also replicated and revitalized for continued community use and transmission to younger generations.
Keywords:
Dinugso, Higaunon, Magbabaya, Material culture, Pamumulakaw, Pig-agawan, Ritual dance, Saut
References
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Hobson, N. M., Schroeder, J., Risen, J. L., Xygalatas, D., & Inzlicht, M. (2018). The psychology of rituals: An integrative review and process-based framework. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 22(3), 260–284. https://doi.org/10.1177/1088868317734944
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Smith, L. T. (2012). Decolonizing methodologies: Research and Indigenous peoples (2nd ed.). Zed Books.
Tulio, D. (2008). Origins and history of dance, basic physical education for college worktext P.E.2. National Bookstore.
Brandeis, H. (2008). Music and dance of the Bukidnon of Mindanao: A short introduction. Kinaadman, 30, 67–120.
Cole, F. C. (1956). The Bukidnon of Mindanao. Chicago Natural History Museum.
Garvan, J. (2006). The Manobos of Mindanao. Project Gutenberg.
Griswold, W. (2012). Cultures and societies in a changing world (4th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Hobson, N. M., Schroeder, J., Risen, J. L., Xygalatas, D., & Inzlicht, M. (2018). The psychology of rituals: An integrative review and process-based framework. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 22(3), 260–284. https://doi.org/10.1177/1088868317734944
Peirce, C. S. (1960). Collected papers of Charles Sanders Peirce. Harvard University Press.
Rana, N. (2024). The power of costume: Defining character and identity in theatrical performance. ShodhKosh: Journal of Visual and Performing Arts, 5(2), 42–49.
Smith, L. T. (2012). Decolonizing methodologies: Research and Indigenous peoples (2nd ed.). Zed Books.
Tulio, D. (2008). Origins and history of dance, basic physical education for college worktext P.E.2. National Bookstore.
Published
2025-12-20
Section
Articles
Copyright (c) 2025 Asia Pacific Journal of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Copyright holder is the Bukidnon State University.
