No other tribe in Davao is more recognized by their colorful clothing than that of the Bagobos. Whether they are of the giangan, obo or tagabawa tribe, they are usually spotted wearing head kerchiefs especially during celebrations or tribal festivities. Though, Davao has become a “little cosmopolite” in social stature these days, tribal people still cling to whatever is proudly left of their ancient culture. Among them is on the way they dress that makes them culturally distinct from the others. Inset is a head kerchief decorated with beads and tassels. Bright silver, red or green sequins are also woven intricately in the material. Headdress comes from the private collection of Dabawenyong Lumad.
Colors ranging from black, brown or black, dyed horse’s tail are popularly used to decorate the headdresses called “klobow” or “tangkulo” in the lumad parlance. Head kerchief comes from the private collection of Dabawenyong Lumad.
Bagobos in their full warrior dress stand proudly. Men at the foreground noticeably wear their head kerchiefs. According to Fay Cooper-Cole (eminent anthropologist), “the Bagobos are without doubt, the most handsomely dressed wild tribe in the Philippines. The men confine their long hair in head kerchiefs, the edges of which are decorated with beads and tassels.” Furthermore, the Magani, the accomplished warrior of the Bagobo tribe and who, having taken 2 or 3 of the enemy, is privileged to wear a dyed-red suit with a “chocolate-red” kerchief. Such is the symbol of the Magani’s prowess in battle. The picture was taken during the early 1900’s during the American occupation of Davao. Internet image courtesy by US anthropological archives.
Image portrays a head kerchief worn by Dabawenyong Lumad nearside a Bagobo kulintang. A bamboo structure, housing the gong set, gets noticed.
Dabawenyong Lumad 