HomePAPSCU Excellent Academic Research Link (PEARL) Bulletin vol. 3 no. 1 (2022)

DUYUY TAGUDON: SONG STORIES OF THE KULAMANON-DULANGAN MANOBO OF SULTAN KUDARAT, SOUTHERN PHILIPPINES

Helen S. Tejero

 

Abstract:

“Duyuy Tagudon: Song Stories of the Kulamanon Dulangan Manobo of Sultan Kudarat, Southern Philippines” explore the culture of the Manobo as expressed in song stories (duyuy tagudon). It delved into the lyrical contents of the song stories, the context of music performance, and the role of the musician in the Manobo Society. Two song stories from the Kulamanon Manobo are chosen from among the unpublished collection of songs gathered through fieldwork in Kulaman Valley. Through key informant interview and participant observation, it is revealed that: 1) the lyrics of the song-stories (duyuy tagudon) highlight the lives of heroes who are brave, courageous, and dedicated to serving the people despite the challenges they faced; 2) song stories are rendered in important gatherings such as thanksgiving celebrations, victory celebrations, weddings, funerals, and peace-pact making; and 3) the musicians in Manobo society are well respected because they are considered the bearer of the cultural heritage of the people. Through their songs, they can move people to action. The song stories of the Manobo have great wealth on the ethnohistory and cultural practices of the people that can enrich the curriculum through the Philippine Cultural Education Program and the promotion of lifelong learning.