philippines
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An Interview with Yê Nida Anggol
I was first introduced to Yê Nida Anggol back in 2013 when I was documenting the processes involved in the weaving of tnalak. She had a kind face, with a gentle and generous smile. She spoke to me in a Tboli that has its own cadence and rhythm, every word perfectly enunciated. She was a Continue reading
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An Interview with Mâ Ungkal, Son of Kawit
Mâ Ungkal was about the same age as my late grandmother. I first saw him at the but bnek (Tboli planting ritual) that I attended in March of 2015. He told us stories of how they did the ritual and the planting of upland rice in the 1960s. That day in 2015, he had a smile that was reflective and nostalgic Continue reading
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Searching for Lemlunay in Lake Sebu
I remember the first time I saw the documentary film “Dreamweavers” back in our Sociology class in college. It featured the T’boli tribe of Lake Sebu in Southern Mindanao and how they weave their cloths inspired by spirits in their dreams. I was amazed watching that film, fascinated at how these people give value to Continue reading
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Tawi-Tawi Thoughts
I have to admit that I was worried my trip to Tawi-Tawi would be aborted because of all the negative things I had heard from people and from the news. I mean, just google Tawi-Tawi and you’ll be greeted with stories of kidnappings, the Abu Sayyaf, unfriendly locals, and all sorts of horrid things. Another Continue reading
Being Here, Now. 