Panuhugtuhog: Keeping Manobo's traditional beadworks sustainable
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- Recognizing the importance of reviving a
long cultural heritage of the Manobo tribe in the province of Surigao del Sur,
the provincial government through the Provincial Tourism Office took a brave
step to preserve, promote, and sustain the traditional beadworks of the
tribe called, "Panuhugtuhog,"
Panuhugtuhog is a time-honored art of creating intricate beadworks among the
Manobo tribe. Each design provided a genuine meaning of its culture and
tradition. More than a craft, it is a symbol of Surigaonons resilience,
unity, and its rich cultural tapestry.
The Provincial Tourism Office headed by Mary Vil Cruz-Chan knew that the
success of this endeavor rested on the cooperation and involvement of the
indigenous communities as this cultural art is close to their hearts. Hence,
the said office decided to coordinate with the National Commission on
Indigenous People (NCIP), and together sincerely approached the elders of the
tribes who are the keepers of this age-old art and sought their guidance and
support.
Both Barangay Mampi council chair Danilo Duaso, and Barangay Chieftain Datu
Alonso Badiang warmly welcomed the representatives from the Provincial Tourism
Office, as they explained their vision of preserving Panuhugtuhog and how
it could become an essential aspect of the province's tourism industry while
ensuring that the indigenous people will sustain the gains of respect, being
valued, and empowerment. After a deep conversation, the elders and barangay
council chieftains gave their nod of approval, realizing that the provincial
government’s intention is pure and genuine.
The tribes agreed to participate in the revitalization of “Panuhugtuhog” in
Sition Ibuan, an IP community in Barangay Mampi, Lanuza, Surigao del Sur, where
the first training was conducted and the creation of the association of the
Manobo weavers named as Ibuan Buhing Kultura Association or "IBUKA
."
The communities responded enthusiastically and workshops were organized by the
provincial government An IP trainer, Daniel L. Tacbas patiently imparted
his knowledge, skills, and expertise to the participants. The intricate
patterns, traditional designs, and vibrant colors that once seemed lost in time
were brought back to life, one bead at a time.
The tourism office played a pivotal role in providing the necessary resources,
organizing events, and creating platforms for the communities to showcase their
beadworks, which eventually provided additional livelihood to the IPs.They
collaborated with local craftsmen and artisans to design modern pieces using
the traditional Panuhugtuhog techniques, enabling them to appeal to a wider
market without compromising authenticity.
After Sitio Ibuan, more IP communities started to do the Panuhugtuhog to name, Sitio Simowao Brgy. Diatagon, Lianga;
Brgy.
Cabangahan, Cantilan; Brgy. Bayogo, Madrid; Sitio Mam-on Brgy. Tubo-Tubo,
Cagwait; Brgy. Castillo, San Miguel;
and Sitio Han-ayan KM-16, Brgy. Diatagon, Lianga, all in the province of
Surigao del Sur.
Two more barangays in San Miguel town joined the cultural journey, Umalag and
Sitio Inadan in Brgy. Magroyong. The most current was conducted earlier this
month in Raja Cabungso-an, Lingig town at the the southern-tip of the
province.
Expanding to a bigger horizon, in March 2022, the trained associations from the
different IP communities participated in the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB)
Marketing Enhancement Workshop and exhibited their masterpiece to a bigger
audience.
As time passed by, the revitalized beadwork art spread far and wide to other
areas of the globe. Tourists, both local and international, flocked to witness
the beautiful beadwork and listened to the stories behind each finished
masterpiece . Also, the tourism office opened more opportiunities for arranged
cultural exhibits where locals and visitors could interact, exchange stories,
and form lasting connections. It has tied up with other government stakeholders
to support and patronize the finished local products.
Panuhugtuhog provided hope to struggling IP communities by providing them
sustainable livelihood and support thus, empowering them to invest in
education, healthcare, and other basic essential needs for their families.
Coupled by tourism revival in the province, it inspired the younger generation
to take pride of their cultural roots and commit to carry the legacy
forward. (Nida Grace P. Barcena/PIA-Surigao del Sur)
