Talibong: A Material Culture Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65232/y8rhf728Keywords:
Bladesmith, Culture, Ethnography, Heirloom, Material Culture, Rituals, TalibongAbstract
This qualitative study applied Material Culture study and Ethnography as research methodologies to describe and understand Talibong, an ancient sword, a material culture and identity of the people of Libacao, Aklan. This study was conducted in the remote town of Libacao in the Province of Aklan in the Philippines. This study has seven participants who are known locally as “panday” or blade smith and were identified to be making Talibong since they were young. The data collection strategies that were employed are participant observation, focus group discussion and in-depth interviews. Photographs and audio recordings were also used while gathering data. The set of data were analyzed using Jules Prown’s model of material culture analysis employing description, deduction and speculation. The findings of the study revealed that Talibong is an old age tradition practiced by the people of Libacao, Aklan. This has been culturally identified with the Libacaonons for centuries and it is an heirloom identified with the people. Rituals that are century old are practiced in the making of Talibong to ensure the safety of the blade smith while making it and protection to the owner of the Talibong. Talibong is a symbol of bravery, power and affluence.Talibong during the early times were made purposely for defense, a weapon for war. It is a material culture that is identified with the people of Libacao, Aklan, hence the expression of the locals: “ginaeagnat ru talibong kung indi kaeabu” (The Talibong gets sick when it could not slash).
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