Bikol, Libon in Philippines

Introduction / History

There are many small tribal communities in the Philippines. Language is the chief distinguishing feature within Filipino tribal cultures. One of these is Bikol, which is divided into smaller dialects such as Buhi’non and Libon. Unlike most tribal societies in the Philippines, the Bikol people live in the central part of the country.

The Libon Bikol have remained isolated from modernization and still live a lifestyle based on survival.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Virtually all of the tribal groups living in the Philippines are farmers. The principal crops are wet rice and maize Secondary crops include vegetables, tobacco and coffee. On their farms they raise domestic animals such as dogs, goats and chickens.

The most common method of farming is in "swidden" fields. (These are temporary gardening plots produced by cutting back and burning off the existing vegetation.) The plots usually lie adjacent to their homes. The farmers also depend heavily on irrigated rice terraces which are located on the mountain slopes. This "slash and burn" technique only provides a small crop yield. They often have to cut down forests to make way for more farmland.

Most Libon Bikol villages are arranged in clusters around individual gardens. The basic unit of society among these tribes is the extended family. Marriages are most often arranged while the prospective bride and groom are still very young. Since the tribes have strict taboos on sexual relations between relatives, most marriages are "exogamous" or with members of another tribe.

Depending on the influence of outside cultures, the clothing of the tribes varies. Some wear simple loin cloths, while others dress in modern style clothing.

There seems to be very little political organization within the tribes. However, most villages have a "headman" or chief who acts as a judge over disputes.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most members of the Libon Bikol tribe are officially Christian. They can be either Roman Catholic or Evangelical. Like most tribal peoples, they struggle to keep their faith in Jesus Christ rather than ancient spirits.

What Are Their Needs?

Although these remote tribes are slowly being forced into a modern world, they continue to struggle daily with life's most basic essentials. They are in desperate need of quality medical care, modern farming techniques and educational opportunities that can give them a better future.

Prayer Points

Ask the Lord to call people to disciple the Libon Bikol people and teach them to disciple others.
Pray that the Holy Spirit will prepare the hearts of the people for the gospel.
Ask God to strengthen, encourage and protect Christians living among them.
Pray for spiritual hunger among Libon Bikol family leaders that will lead them to the cross.

Text Source:   Joshua Project