English - Balay Mindanaw

Part 2 - Four Datus: Stories of the Higaunon Lifeand northern Bukidnon provinces of Mindanao, explainedthat the concept of libung was derived from a prominentBukidnon myth where the first people were said to be linibungor immortalized. This seems to be a cultural expression of thehuman yearning for immortality and unending happiness. Ifone becomes linibung or becomes an “instant happy immortal,”he is no longer dependent on food nor drink.The baylans were believed to have powers to foretell thefuture. When asked what is the difference between the baylanand the mamumuhat or ritualist, Amba Palasambag said thatthe baylan and mamumuhat do not bear much distinctionbecause both of them can perform the pamuhat-buhat (ritual)but it is only the baylan who can see the supernatural or spirits.“Propeta” or prophet was the immediate description of oneof the local chieftains of Minalwang, Claveria. That althoughboth the baylan and the mamumuhat can perform more or lesssimilar rituals like pamuhat-buhat, only the baylan can consultdirectly with the supernatural beings. Amba PalasambagAmba Palasambag with his contemporary, Datu Manyagusyos, discussing issuesraised during the Dumalongdong. (August 2005)33