When the balatik appears in the sky, it is time for the yearly sacrifice.
All who are to prepare new fields or are to assist others in such work gather to take part in the ceremonies honoring the spirits. For three days the men abstain from work. No music and dancing are allowed. With the ending
of the period of taboo, the workers go the fields and in the center of each, they place a tambara, a white dish containing betel nut. This is an offering
to Eugpamolak Manobo, besought to drive away evil spirits, keep the workers in good health, allow an abundant crop, and make the owners
rich and happy. - Fay-Cooper Cole This journal has borrowed the Bagobo word tambara to emphasize the commitment of the Ateneo de Davao University to serve as a Filipino, Catholic and Jesuit University. |