It’s inspiring to see young people preserving culture and breathing new life into it.

During the Domestic Tourism Invitational Program SOX, organized by the Tourism Promotions Board, I had the privilege of immersing myself once again in Blaan culture and witnessing firsthand how the younger generation is working to safeguard its heritage.

We joined the 1st Blaan Du Tabih Festival in Sitio Amgu-o, Barangay Landan, Polomolok, South Cotabato. It was a vibrant celebration of the Blaan people, one of the largest non-Islamic indigenous groups in southern Mindanao. They are known for their intricate beadwork, brasswork, and colorful handwoven textiles.

The festival highlights tabih, the handwoven cloth that is central to Blaan identity. The rich, vibrant hues of this indigenous textile are achieved through natural dyes, meticulously sourced from endemic plants within the community.

The event also honors the legacy of Fu Yabing Masalon Dulo, a Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan (National Living Treasure) awardee for textile weaving.

Fu Yabing, born on August 8, 1914, and passing on January 26, 2021, was a master weaver and dyer credited with preserving the mabal tabih art of ikat weaving and dyeing. In recognition of her efforts, the Philippine government, through the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, bestowed upon her the National Living Treasures Award.

At the time of her passing, she was one of the last surviving master designers of this intricate art form.

When we arrived, both young and old community members warmly welcomed us and placed handcrafted lei made from native materials around our necks.

Our attention was drawn to the Gumne, a traditional Blaan house that offered visitors an intimate glimpse into their rich heritage and craftsmanship. Inside, we observed the intricate processes of weaving and embroidery, while the aroma of traditional food and locally brewed coffee filled the air.

The program was a feast for the senses with traditional dances, displays of indigenous clothing, and mesmerizing chants filling the gathering. It was particularly heartwarming to see young girls performing traditional dances, gracefully embodying their heritage.

Key members of the community who have dedicated themselves to preserving these customs were also honored during the event. Among them were Saring Gulili Maligon, an embroidery expert, and Lamina Gulili, a master weaver of tabih, whose craftsmanship continues to keep the Blaan weaving tradition alive.

After the program, we joined a communal feast featuring traditional Blaan dishes.

The event was overseen by Fu Yabing’s grandson, Arthur Gulili. He shared their desire to showcase and share their way of life, emphasizing that they are part of the province, even if they members of an indigenous tribe. 

Alberta Gadia of the Tourism Promotions Board, who led our group, highlighted the importance of cultural exchange, explaining that the objective of the group is not to influence them but for their culture to influence us.

Gadia added that having a large number of tourists is not important; rather, visitors who genuinely want to understand Blaan culture.

Beyond the festival, Arthur continues to keep Fu Yabing’s legacy alive through a weaving center, a new brand called FUYA, and a homestay that offers visitors an opportunity to experience the Blaan way of life.

Before leaving, we stopped by the compound, which houses the weaving center, the homestay, and Fu Yabing’s final resting place. We had a chance to have more intimate conversation with Arthur and also, get our own souvenirs.

The whole visit was a simple yet profoundly inspiring experience that underscored the importance of cultural preservation and the efforts of the younger generation to ensure that the Blaan heritage continues to flourish.