Lumad Ethnolinguistic Groups in Mindanao

Study Notes

Lumad is a Cebuano term that means "native," "aboriginal," or "autochthonous" and is used to refer to the 19 or more ethnolinguistic groups in Mindanao.
The Lumad were historically referred to as "Infieles" by the Spaniards and "wild tribes" by the Americans.
In 1986, representatives from various Lumad groups adopted the term "Lumad" as a collective name, distinguishing themselves from the Moros and the Christian majority.
The choice of the Cebuano term "Lumad" was ironic as most Lumad groups do not speak Cebuano, but it was considered the most appropriate common language.

The Manobo are found in the Caraga region of Mindanao.
The Manobo practice slash-and-burn farming and gather and hunt food in the forest.
Rice, root crops, and vegetables are their primary food sources.
Polygamy is practiced among the Manobo.

Surigaonon Manobo: Found in Carascal and Barogo of Surigao.
Agusanon Manobo: Found in Bayogan, San Francisco, Esperanza, and Trento of Agusan.
Lipaknon/Lapaknon Manobo: Believed to be extinct and assimilated into other groups.
Usi Manobo: A small group of English-speaking Manobo in Agusan.
Ubo Manobo: Found in the mountains between South Cotabato and Davao del Sur.
Arumanen Manobo: Found in North Cotabato.

Also known as the "people of the forest," they are found between Agusan and Bukidnon.
Their staple food is the pith of rattan.

Found in the Caraga region, particularly between Agusan-Bukidnon and Agusan-Misamis Oriental.
Known as the "people of the wilderness."

Found in the Caraga region, particularly in Lanusa, Lake Mainit, Matin-aw, Kantogas, Mount Cabadbaran, Habonga, and Kicharaw.
Known as "kong king."

Scattered throughout the east and south of Mount Apo and the eastern side of Cotabato.
Skilled in brasswork, abaca weaving, and making baskets.
Primarily subsist on upland rice, supplemented by corn, sweet potatoes, bananas, and coconuts.

Concentrated mostly in Davao del Sur and South Cotabato.
Practice sedentary agriculture, growing rice, corn, sugarcane, bananas, papaya, and other root crops.
Barter crops for tools and other utensils.
Continue practicing their indigenous rituals and customs.

The term "Mandaya" means "inhabitants of the uplands."
Found in Davao Oriental province.
Practice slash-and-burn cultivation.
Both men and women wear their hair long and tied in a knot.
Shaving eyebrows to a thin line, filing, and blackening teeth are considered forms of beauty.