Summary

This PDF is a compilation of 4 literary texts, including the legend of Pulong Bato and the story of Abdulla and Putli' Isara in Spanish times. The text details tragic love stories from Mindanao, Philippines.

Full Transcript

THE LEGEND OF PULONG BATO Some centuries ago in the highlands of Zamboanga lived the lovers Pulong and Maryam. Pulong was a Subanen and Maryam a Muslim and the difference in the lovers’ ethnic backgrounds did not sit well especially with the gir...

THE LEGEND OF PULONG BATO Some centuries ago in the highlands of Zamboanga lived the lovers Pulong and Maryam. Pulong was a Subanen and Maryam a Muslim and the difference in the lovers’ ethnic backgrounds did not sit well especially with the girl’s family. Although a datu, Pulong never managed to win the favor of Maryam’s family, who did eve1rything to separate the two. Things went a turn for the worse when they prohibited Maryam from seeing Pulong altogether. They assigned her brother to keep an eye on her all the time making the separation unbearable for the lovers. One night when the moon was abroad and the whole village fast asleep, Maryam quietly managed to sneak out of their house and hastily fled for Pulong’s place. Seeing his girl approaching, Pulong immediately grabbed his stag, scooped Maryam and raced off with her as fast and as far as they possibly could. When Maryam’s brother discovered her gone, he roused the whole village and everyone joined in on the search. They combed through the mountains and the rivers until the lovers were eventually located. A hot pursuit ensued bringing the lovers to the edge of a steep and rocky cliff. Maryam’s brother threatened to kill the two if Maryam did not return to her family. The lovers, however, knew that they would never be able to see each other again if Maryam did what she was told. Hands together, they gazed at each other one last time, turned their backs on Maryam’s brother and jumped off the cliff. The cliff where the lovers perished came to be known as Pulong Bato after the hero of the tragic tale and after the huge, white, solid rock that is a distinguishing feature of the cliff that bore witness to a love stronger and bolder than death. It is believed that the cries of Pulong and Maryam can be heard by the cliff until today. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University. The Parang Sabil of Abdulla and Putli’ Isara in Spanish Times1 Indah Annura Hiyajarat hi tagna’ 1 This recounts a story of the past, In sabab sin kastila’; In Spanish times Lugay di nag hula’, While they lived here, Kalingugan dakula’; (They caused) great turmoil. Kastila’ landu’ sapat 2 The Spaniards wasted no time Mag pa hinang sabak, In building their barracks. Nagisun mawpakkat They discussed and agreed Sundalu in sumakat That the soldiers stay there2. Kastila’ in nag pikil 3 The Spaniards intended Ba nagpahinang kuwatil. That quarters be erected. Diyumulan ha nukil It was foretold and prophesied Tunangan in magsibil. That two lovers would do a sabil. Hi sulay ta hi kissa 4 We shall attempt to relate In anak sin panglima, (How) the Panglima’s daughter, Bang sumung in dunya As time went on, Masa binan niya Taught a lesson. Hiyajarat hi tuman 5 To relate the facts In nag tuang sin juman; About the lovers of that time Wala’ kiyakawinan Who were not married yet Sin tuhan iyukuman. As decreed by God. Hi sulay ta hi kissa 6 We shall attempt to tell Ba hi putli’ Isara, About Putli’ Isara, Babai sa malangka, A lovely, darling girl, In tuning hiadulla, The sweetheart of Abdulla. Hi Isara panalak 7 Isara was lovely Ba in lingkat Sali’ malak; And an angel-like beauty; Nagsahaya nagtilak She shone brilliantly Sin adlaw pulak pulak. Even in the midst of day. Hi putli’ Isara 8 This Putli Isara Aturun makamula, Had a beauty few men could resist. Di’ ta makilakila We cannot underrate In tuning hi Abdulla The sweetheart of Abdulla. Hi Isara marurug 9 Isara was beautiful Sarang sarang in hambug. (And) had a luscious body. Bang sin tunang maatud. Whenever her fiancé would look at her, Ba dumagan lumungtud. She would run and jump.3 1 Rixhon, Gerard. Voices from Sulu: A Collection of Tausug Oral Traditions. Quezon City: Ateneo de Manila University Press, 2010. 2 Sundalu in sumakat literally means “the soldiers will climb (or ascend)” and was translated as “the soldiers stay there,” since the statement refers to the barracks. 3 Sarang-sarang in hambug literally means “stubby enough” or “a luscious body.” “Look” here connotes an ardent look. In a society with strong taboos concerning boy- girl relationships, one such look is enough to disquiet a girl. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Bang lumungtud pa bilik, 10 While running to the room, Agaran manga tulik. She would shout. Minsan sapahan mustik, Even oaths of doom she would utter. Di’ gumuwa magbalik. Never again would she leave. In hangkan di’ gumuwa’ 11 The reason she would not go out Kan Abdulla mabuga’ (Was that) she was afraid of Abdulla. Siyapali in bata’, She connived with the lad (her brother), “Subay kaw mamayta’. “Speak it out.” Baytai ba aku; 12 “Please tell me; Ayaw mag tipu-tipu Do not be treacherous. Masipug tuud aku I am really coy (in the presence) Kan Abdulla tuning ku.” Of Abdulla my fiancé.” Hi Abdulla lingkatan 13 The handsome Abdulla Naglapal nagsambatan; Came with a suggestion. Namayta’ sin mattan He announced that Ba tumulak pa sandakan. To Sandakan he must journey. “Bapa’ tumulak aku, 14 “Sir, I will saild, Day’ day’ da aku. But I will not tarry.4 In pasal sin tuning ku, Please take care of my sweetheart Yari da kaw bapa ku. With you nothing can be wrong. “Bapa’ amu gawi ku 15 My purpose, sir, is Ba in panyap bihun ku’ To buy what I need (for the wedding).” Kumala’ bang uwi ka “My jewel, when I return In ikaw kawinan ku.” I will marry you.” In Panglima simambung 16 The panglima responded: Ba wa’ Nagtapuk naglimbung Without pretense and reservation Baytai in kampong “Inform our relatives around that Kumawin ha’ ini bang dumatung He will marry (Isara) upon his return.” “Huun marayaw na, 17 “Yes, very well, Tulak mu lanjalan na, Proceed with your travel. Bisan susa unu na, Whatever troubles her, Ba ni jumaga aku na.” Her guardian I shall be.” Hi Abdulla nagsakap 18 Abdulla prepared Tumulak in kahandak. For the journey ahead. In tunang landu’ lingkat His very beaturiful sweetheart Ba piya tubig kamakap Got ready to visit the river.5 Hi Isara naglutu’ 19 Isara did her best; Jimunjung huku’huku’ With sobs she pleaded In danan nagtuyu’ That she be allowed Liyubag mamaygu’ To wash the grime from her body. 4 Day’-day’ da aku literally means “I’ll only be for a short while.” It is translated as “but I will not tarry.” 5 Tubig is “water,” but it is commonly used to refer to a river, spring, or strea, especially by the Tausug living in the hinterlands of Jolo. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University “La ila ama, ku, 20 “Oh God! My Father Ba pa tubig pa ba aku Let me go to the river. Yari ra in manghud ku. My younger brother is here, Magpaiban da aku I will ask him to accompany me.” “Way biya’ kaymu; 21 “There is no one like you; Yan mangi’ in addat mu. You have an unlovable trait.6 Tagati in tunang mu. Wait for your lover, Pa tubig mayan kamu’ Then together you may go to the river.” Hi Putli Isara 22 Then Putli Isara Ba Giyuwa’ in suwara Voiced out her opinion. “Pagkilakila ha ra “Think what would happen Magbunyug duwaruwa When two lovers are together.” “Hangkan ta kaw hawiran 23 “I forbid you because (going there) Maka baba’ ha baran Would degrade your own self. Bang awan kasipugan, If ever something embarrassing happens Mu mahunit bawgbugan Hard it will be for you to outlive it. “La ila ama’ ku 24 Oh, God! My father, Magpaiban di’ aku I will not let (him) accompany me; Masipug tuud aku I would be so embarrassed Ba kan Abdulla tunang ka.” Before Abdulla my fiancé.” In ama’ nagkabtangan, 25 The father answered, “Mayta’ kaw maluman? “Why do you feel so bashful? Hangkan na kaw tunangan The reason for your being betrothed Bang kaw manaw ibanan.” Is that for you to have an escort when you go out.” “Duwal bang Bukun aku 26 “Only if I am not myself Ba ampa di’ hilanjal ku. Then I will not proceed. Limandu’ in lubag ku I have so much grime Makatug di’ aku.” That I cannot sleep.” “Dayang di’ kaw tugutan 27 “Dear, I will not allow you Ku ha butang hika minsan For this time only, though. Bang panaw mu lausan But if you insist on going Ba bang ta kaw di’ hukutan We will not tie you down. Bang panay mu lausan If you insist on going Dayang di’ ta ra kaw hukutan Dear, we will not tie you down.” Hi Isara nagsakap 28 Isara prepared Piya tubig kumakap. To visit the river. In luha’ nagkapakpak Her tears began to fall Itung in daghal sipak As if her chest would break. Ubus ampa nanaug 29 Then she went down (and) Tiyawag na in m,anghud She called her younger brother In luha’ natayudtud As her tears rolled down. Ba in lawm jantung utud As if her heart would be cut in two. 6 For puberty onwards, a boy is expected to avoid any verbal or nonverbal (looks) contacts with any girl of marrying age. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Katan kalabayan, 30 She went through all these Luha’ way tahayan, Tears never drying out Ha manghud nakaiyan She told her brother Ba hi ama’ jiyururan. She had disobeyed their father. In karatung pa tubig 31 When she arrived at the spring Suga tagna’ limid The sun was going down. Piya batu simandig On a rock she leaned Ba in luha’ magkaligid While tears poured out. Ubus Ampa timindug; 32 Then she stood; Ba piya tubig namu’sug. Into the river she went to bathe. Nagjajaga in manghud Her brother was there ever vigilant. Duun na nagaatud. He was right there standing watch. Duun na namaygu’ 33 She then took a bath there In manghud nagtutunggu’ While her brother was guarding her. In lawn jantung du’du Deep in her heart she lamented Ba bat kan ama nagjuru’ Her disobeying her father. In iban babta’bata’ 34 Her companion, the little boy, Timawag “andu’ kaka’ Called out, “Oh, sister, In sundalu kastila’ Spanish soldiers are here; Aturun makabuga’.” So frightful to look at.” Hi Putli’ Isara 35 Putli’ Isara Ba imungsit iban gaga, Shouted and said, “unu kabugaan ta? “What are we afraid of? Ba Panglima in ama’ ta.” Our father is a panglima.” La ila kaka’ ku, 36 “Oh, my God! Sister, Limandu’ in buga’ ku. I am really afraid Bang takdil awn pikpik ku If only I had wings, Ba malungay na limuntu.” I would have flown earlier.” In sundalu dimantung; 37 The soldiers arrived; In taud di’ maitung. Their number could not be counted Buga’ di’ mapalambung How great was his fear Hi kaka’ piyapatung (At the way) they stared at his sister. Tininti nagsambatan 38 The lieutenant said Kan Isara lingkatan To the beautiful Isara, “Di’ tan a kaw lawakan,” “I will not part from you anymore.” Ba tuy na kiyamputan Then he immediately embraced her. Hi Putli’ Isara 39 Putli’ Isara Giyuwa’ in suwara Shouted a warning, “Pagkilakila ha ra “Do remember that Tunang ku hi Abdulla” Abdulla is my fiance.” May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University “Hi Abdulla tunang ku. 40 “Abdulla is my fiancé. Tagad kaw tangntangan ku. Wait, I take off (my engagement ring).7 Butawani na aku Now let me go, Ikaw na in tunang ku”. (Then) you are my lover.” “Dayang bisan tunangan, 41 “Dear, even if you are engaged, Ba ikaw na in limbangan You will be my partner. Hi Abdulla mandangan Abdulla might be enraged Ba timbakun ku ra kuman.” (But) I will just shoot him later.” “Huun marayaw na, 42 “Yes, very well, Ba in tunang ku ikaw na, You are now my lover. Maabut na mabana. An illicit affair (you) have started, In aku baka na.” (But) you will have to face me (still).” Wala’ nagpalugay 43 She did not tarry; Minuwi da pa bay She still went went home. Bisan maguyum daghay, Even though she was smilingly sighing, Hansul in lawn atay Her heart was melting. In sundalu kastila’ 44 The Spanish soldier Limandu’ jahulaka Was very cruel. Anak tau dakula The daughter of a leader Kiya dihilan salla’ Was reported sullied. Piya bay dimatung 45 When she arrived home, Ba bagbag in lawm jantung Her heart was broken. Susa di’ mapalambung Her grief was so heavy Piya ama’ nagsumbong (That) to her father she confessed. “la ila ama ku, 46 “Oh, my God! Father, Limandu’ in susa ku. I have a big problem. Dimatung in sundalu When the soldier arrived, Ba siyaggaw in baran ku.” He embraced me.” In ama nagpangiyan 47 The father then commented, “Di’ kaw kapag-agihan “You are hard-headed. Tunang mu ha bugsayan Your fiancé is now on his journey Awn na kasipugan Has something to be ashamed of.” “Sari na ama’ ku 48 “Never mind, my father, Bisan masipug aku, Even if I Have been shamed, In tunang tagaran ku I will wait for my fiance Ba magparang sabil aku.” Then I will do sabil”. Ama’ nagkainagun 49 The father tried to do his best 7 Tangtangun ku literally means “I will disconnect it.” Here, it is understood that she takes off her engagement ring as the statement refers to Isara’s engagement to Abdulla. The ring appears to be a mere symbol and removing it opens a parenthesis in her life that does not change her attachment to her fiancé. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University “In anak ku kawgun My daughter is dishonored. Kawai madtu sabuun We will clean (your shame) Hugasan ta igun” By washing it off.” “Ama di’ ku kawaan 50 “Father, I cannot erase it Ba in sipug ku sangkaan I shall bear my shame Tunang ku ha tulakan My fiancé who is on a journey Subay ku kabaytaan Must be informed by me. “Ama’ di ku hugasan 51 “Father, I will not wash it off. In sipug ku tatasan I shall endure my shame. Duun maghinapusan It will come to an end Ba bang tunang kabukisan When my fiancé (cleans) the stain. “Tunang ku ha sandakan 52 My fiancé now in Sandakan Subay ku kabaytaan Should be informed by me. Bang namu’ kakitaan When we see (the soldier), Dakula’ kasagkaan.” There will be big trouble.” Hi Abdulla dimatung; 53 Then Abdulla arrived; Ba ha higad nagpaantung On the shore he landed. Hina hinagun Right there and then Hi Isara Piyunung Isara fainted. Piyunung na in tunang 54 (His) fiancée had fainted Di’ na makaatud pandang And could not look at (him) straight. Atay lutang maglutang (Her) heart was shattered Ba sundalu taga utang By what the soldier had inflicted on her. Abdulla piya bay 55 Abdulla went to his house Kapanyapan iyukay And opened his good, Kakana’ dasu lanay Expensive silk cloth Jiyagjag biyulakay He displayed and scattered. Kakana’ kamarinda 56 The cloth from Kamarinda In dagbus makamula Was so beautiful and rare Bini hi Abdulla It was bougt by Abdulla Ba kan Putli Isara For Putli’ Isara. “Binihan ku burrak 57 I brought her some face powder In katan siyakap. And took care of everything Bang hi raying humadlak Each time I remembered my love Ba itung in daghal sipak. (I felt) as thought my heart was breaking. “in burrak hi dayang ku 58 “The face powder of my love Yari bibi ku I have bought is here. Asal nagagnta’ ku I had already decided Ba paguwi kawainan ku That upon my return I would marry her. “Burrak limandu’ hammut; 59 “The powder smells so sweet May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Ba tiyaw’ piya hugut. (I have) carefully kept (it). Bang kami mahambuuk Once we are united. Hi rayang in magbatuk My dear will discover (it). “Susa di’ katahanan; 60 “My grief is unbearable; Ku adjab in pananaman I feel miserable. Bang du’ ku pagimanan, If I can no longer control it, Tahan ha daghal dupunan I just press my chest. “Taka hi kumala’ ku 61 “While my precious jewel Nagunud ha likud ku Murmured in my back, Na inuinu aku I was wondering Ba nagtangis hi raying ku.” Why my dear was crying.” Hi Abdulla timindug 62 Abdulla stood up Sumugawa’ imatud Then looked at (her). Bissara piya taud, He spoke lengthily, “Ba rayang unu in maksud?” “What is the matter, my dear”. “Abdulla in maksud ku 63 “Abdulla, I would like Ikaw baytaan ku To inform you that Nasipug tuud aku I was insulted Nasaggaw sin sundalu.” Becase a soldier seized me.” Hi Abdulla imanduk 64 Abdulla bowed his head Ba in karukkaan karuk. For the problem was very grave Sumugawa’ nanyabut, But on the contrary, the best is to be done. “Sulayan ku maglagut. (The he said) “I will attempt to fight. “Maglagut sulayan ku 65 “I will try to fight Ba bang pasal mu dayang ku. If the cause is you, my dear. Kuwatil panawan ku I will go to the headquarters Parang sabil aku. To do parang sabil.” Hi Putli’ Isara 66 Putli’ Isara Giyuwa’ in Suwara, Came up with the suggestion, Tuwan ayaw kaw magawa. “Sir, have no qualm, Ba in aku paagara I shall go with you. “Tuwan bang kaw magsabil, 67 “Sir, if you do sabil, Duwa kita matapil. Let us do it together. Di’ kita sumirindil; We will not surrender Ba umatu ha kapil In the fight against the infidels.8” “Bang kita masabil na, 68 “Should we be slain, Niyatun ta kaw bana, I will regard you as my husband. Di’ makawin ha dunya, Though we are not married on Earth, Ha kamatay didtu na.” In death it shall be done.” 8 The term kȃpil (Ar. Kaffir) is used among Muslims to describe contemptuously any unbeliever or infidel. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Hi Abdulla lingkatan 69 (Then) the handsome Abdulla Ba naglapal nagsambatan Said further, “Bang di kapaglagutan “If there will be no fight, Di’ nila kaginsapan They will never know (their misdeed).” Hi Abdulla timindug 70 Abdulla stood up Ba bissara piya tuud. And spoke at length. Hi Abdulla timundug Abdulla stood up. Iban pangda isug. Mustering his courage, “Bisan baran malupug “Even if (my) body is pulverized, Pa kuwatil sumud. I will enter the headquarters.” Pag-ubus namayspis, 71 After getting dressed hurriedly, Piyut na in kalis, He picked up a kris, (saying), “Bang in kadal matangkis “If fate does not serve (us), Ba duwa kita malapis.” Two of us might die.” In tunang makaulung 72 The tearful fiancée Ba piyut na in barung, Picked up a barung sword, “Bang in Tuhan magtulung “With the help of God Duwa kita mag unung.” We shall be united in death.” Nanaug na Karuwa 73 Then the two came down the steps Nag-abay nagbissara. Side by side, talking. Hi Putli’ Isara Putli’ Isara Hansul in Kirakira Was deeply preoccupied. Pa kuwatil dimantung 74 Upon reaching the headquarters Ba in panaw nakahundung They had come to their journey’s end. Bang in tuhan magtulung “With the help of God Ba duwa kita magunung We shall be united in death.” Isug di’ mapalambung Their courage was beyond compare. Karuwa maka ulung. Such great love for each other! In tunang dimantung na, 75 When his fiancée arrived, Pa lawm simud na. She went in. Tininti simagina. The lieutenant greeted her. “Asawa ku yari na.” “My wife is here now.” Limingkud na pa siya 76 She sat down on a chair; Nag-abay na sila Side by side they sat there. Iban uyum na katawa. With smiles and laughter Nagmiting na karuwa They started to talk. Duwa sila nagmiting 77 The two were talking Ba hi Abdulla himing. While Abdulla peeped. In niyat di’ mapalling. His intention was firm. “Lagutan kun a dalling.” “I will strike now, my darling”. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Gimaban hi Abdulla 78 Then Abdulla came up Piya lingkud ha siya And was asked to be seated. Tininti kiyatawa The lieutenant laughed Diyuhalan na siga. As he offered a cigarette. Miyanaw na timulin 79 He walked quickly Way na katukintukin. Without hesistation. Abdulla usug lain. Abdulla became a different man. “Ba in Tininti hariin?” “Where is the lieutenant?” Tininti imasubu, 80 The lieutenant asked, “Unu ta ‘in gawi mu?” “What are you here for? Bayta kaw sin amu; Tell me, what is this all about? Biya angayangay mu.” Isn’t this your first time (to see me)?” Hangkan miyari aku 81 The reason of my coming Dakula in gawi ku. Is very important to me. In kalis diya ku The kris I have here Kaymu hi pusaka ku Is a remembrance from me to you. “Hangkan pusakan 82 “The reason I am giving it Ku bat awn pangitaan Is to teach you a lesson. Bisan napas kawaan, Even if my breath were taken away, Ayaw mu ha’ dayang baytaan” Do not reveal it, my dear.” Hi Putli Isara 83 (Then) Putli’ Isara Kiyublit hi Abdulla Received a light pat from Abdulla. Naglagut na karuwa; The couple struck; Ba nagdura’ na sila. Together they went on slashing. Nagdura naglagut 84 Together they struck, Duwa lapel siayabbut. Uttering two words. In tininti nalibut. The lieutenant was surrounded, Ubus ampa naghaguk. And then he groaned. Liyagut ha abaga; 85 They hacked him on the shoulder Ba iyagaran bismilla. Doing it with a prayer.9 In tininti nagmula; The lieutenant was in serious danger Nasipak na nagduwa. Of being slashed into two. Agi hi Isara, 86 Isara said, “In barung ku yari na “Here is my barung Ha baran mu nanama Feel it on your body Ba luba’luba niyu na.” For what you did.” Liyagut piyuspusan 87 Furiously they slashed 9 Bismillah literally means “in the name of God,” the prayer that begins important actions. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Duwa kahinapusan The two (fighting) to the end. Tininti hokum pangsan; Lifeless, the lieutenant (slumped); Ba napas kiya utasan. His breathing had stopped. Tininti hukum pangsan; Lifeless, the lieutenant (slumped); Napas kiya utasan. His breathing had stopped. Nagpigsik na in dugu’ 88 The blood spurted Ba piya lupa’ nagtu’ And dripped on the ground; Kita’ sin ha tabu’ From the market they saw Ja upis in nagbunu’. The fight in the (lieutenant’s) office. In sundalu na hiyul; 89 The soldiers were stunned; Nagdagan nag urul. They followed one another and ran. Hi Abdulla ganarul, Abdulla was durable, Ba in tininti nahansul (But) the lieutenant was gone. In tau himati; 90 The people wanted to know (the details). Nalingug in siti. The city was disturbed. Miyatay in tininti The lieutenant had died, Taga dusa hati. For an offense he had committed. Tininti di’ manjari, 91 The lieutenant was no longer, Ba baran di’ matabali For his body was mutilated, Kalingugan limabi A great turmoil Dusa pasal babai. Because of the sin (visited on) a girl. In tininti kastila’ 92 This Spanish lieutenant Ba dusa sabab dakula’. Had committed a serious offense. Hangkan napas kiyawa’ The reason for his breath taken away Hi Abdulla nahina’. Was Abdulla’s dishonor. Hangkan Piyagsabilan 93 The reason for his death Di’ na kapangandulan. Was that he no longer could be trusted Amu kiya langgalan Those he had met Ba in tau gagandilan. Were invincible people. Hangkan na Biyunu’ 94 The reason he was slain Ba in hinang nakalandu Was that he abused (her). Tininti mang hihindu The lieutenant who ought to teach Amu hinang ha nila maglummu Did nothing but debauch. In hangkan na biyunu’ 95 The reason he was slain Ba in hinang nakalandu’ Was that he had abused (her). Aria a. a. a. (vocalization expressing sadness) Tininti mang hihindu’. The lieutenant who ought to teach Amu hinang manglummu Did nothing but debauch. Ubus ampa nanaug 96 Then they went down Tunang in piya sunud, With (Abdulla’s) fiancée following him. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Ha lupa’ nakatubtub, When they reached the ground, Ba pa sundalu limungtud. They rushed the soldiers. Hi Isara malingkat 97 The beautiful Isara Ba naglagut landu’ sapat. Was very swift in hacking. Bang timbak kumularak, When the guns sounded, Mamahit pa umulak. In rage she shouted. Hi Putli’ Isara 98 Putli’ Isara Maglagut makamula. Was a deadly fighter.. Bang timbak kumularak When she swung to the left Ba maligad manga duwa. At least two were hit. Hi Abdulla mahumput 99 Abdulla was humble Ba akkal bukun dulaput And was not a bad man. Bang in tuhan magtugut, With God’s support, In punglu’ di’ magabut. The bullets could not hit him. Awn timbak hambuuk 100 (Alas!) one shot Ba kiyugdaan na ha tuktuk. Hit her in the forehead. Hi raying malibuuk; His love fell down; Ba baran di’ matibuuk. Her body was shattered. Abdulla umbul satu; 101 Abdulla was the best; Maglagut maalistu. In hacking he was quick. Bang limimbay pa tuu, When he swung to the right, Ba maligid manga walu At least eight (soldiers) fell. In sundalu hambuuk 102 There was one soldier Ba dimagan timapuk Who ran to hide Marayaw in kasuksuk He hid so well Wala sin tau nabatuk. That the people could not find him. In hambuuk kapitan 103 There was one captain Himarap pa sadlupan. Who ran to the west. Sakali iyabutan However, he was caught Nalagut pa ha tiyan. And was hacked at the waist. Hi Abdulla namunu’ 104 Abdulla fought Naglapal simawnu’ Uttering some words. Way pangkunu’ kunu All of a sudden Nagligu’ na sin dugu’. He was covered with blood. Pagubus namayspis, 105 After hurriedly wiping himself. Ba piyut na in kalis. He picked up the kris. Siyayang na in kalis, Then he raised it (saying), “kansang na kamu galis “Do your best to hurt me Di’ na aku tumangkas.” As I will not parry anymore.” Mahuli nagkabtangan, 106 After saying his last words, May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University In tunang kiya pangan He threw himself over his fiancee’s (body). Niyat sin angan-angan His wish was Ba pakamatay unungan To join her in death. Abdulla sarang durug 107 The handsome Abdulla Kiyugdan na ha simud. Was then hit on the mouth. In hula’ nagdawdug The earth thundered Sampay pa lupa’ punud. Including the underworld. Timbak tagna’ himugpay, 108 When the firing had ceased Duwa sila miyatay The two had already died Naligad nagaabay; They had fallen side by side; Sin kura’ siyusungay. The (Burak) horse10 nosed them in. Timbak tagna’ himundung, 109 When the firing ceased, Ba sundalu makaulung, The soldiers were in bad shape. In nakawa’ nagunung; Many (of them) died with the lovers; Katluan ha’ dayang in na itung. Thirty dead were counted on her side. Katluan ha itungan; 110 Thirty dead were counted; Nalingug in lugan. It troubled the community. Bat niyu kapamintangan A lesson to remember is Ba managgaw sin tunangan It does not pay to touch a betrothed girl. Hinangan puunan 111 A precedent was set Kuwaun labanan. To be regarded as a lesson. Bang masabbut in jaman, When the time comes, Ba kalu ra katumtuman May (the event) be remembered. In sundalu kastila’ 112 The Spanish soldiers Hinangan pusaka’. Were given a lesson. Sampay pa huling bata’. The younger generation, too, Di’ maurul in limpa’ Not to follow the bad example. Pagka bunu’ hupay na, 113 Since the battle had already ended, Ba sundalu nagdaak na The soldiers commanded Sabil hipaput na, That the sabil dead be picked up, In anak sin Panglima (Especially) the panglima’s daughter. Himupay na in timbak 114 The firing had already ceased In sundalu nagdaak When the soliders commanded Hipaput na in anak. The (panglima’s) daughter be picked up Ha kuwatil himantak. She who had fallen at the headquarters. Pagdaak piya kadtu 115 An order was also given Hambuuk sarahintu To a sergeant (to tell the girl’s father); “Panglima in anak mu “Panglima, your daughter (is dead). Ba hipaput kaymu.” Go pick (her corpse) up.” 10 The Burak is the half-animal, half-human being horse, believed to take to heaven anyone dying in the defense of Islam or a related religious cause. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Sarahintu pandikal 116 The sergeant was wise Landu’ mahaba’ akkal. And very intelligent Wa’ na madtu lumanjal, He did not proceed anymore, Ba mahalli’ sin malanggal. Wary of what he might meet. Sarahintu kastila’ 117 The Spanish sergeant Ba in akkal piyahaba’. Used his mind well.hat fate awaits Piya kadtu in bata’: He sent a little boy instead Panglima diyatungan, 118 When he received the news, the panglima Biya’ sin kiyangkangan. Was shocked, “In anak mu tunangan “Your betrothed daughter Naghinang karupangan Did something shameful.” “In paraak kaymu, 119 “The call for you Panglima, dungugun mu. Panglima, please hear, is Puta in anak mu; To pick up your daughter’s (corpse); Ba makasipug kaymu.” It is shameful to you11. “In Sabab sin anak ku, 120 “Regarding my daughter, Ba in mut di’ na aku. I will not get (her corpse). Pasari na madtu Just leave her there, Ba di’ mahagad agi ku.” She disobeyed my counsel.” In asawa simambung. 121 The (panglima’s) wife answered. Ba wa’ nagtapuk naglimbun She did not conceal nor hide (anything) “Puta makaulung “Pick her up, she looks so miserable (and) Makasipug ha kampung.” (Avoid) shaming our relatives.” In agi sin Panglima, 122 The panglima then said “Ba in mut aku ri’ na I will never pick (her) up. Bisan susa unu na, Whatever is the problem, Baya’baya’ niyu na.” That is up to you.” “Way biya’ kaymu; 123 There is nobody like you; Yan limandu’ in buga’ mu. You’re too much of a coward, Way tuwi’ sipug mu That you do not feel shame Ba ha usug pagkahi mu.” Before men like you.” “May aku masipug? 124 “Why should I feel ashamedd Sin pilak ku mataud. When I have plenty of money after all? Bang sin tau maatud If the people can see what I have Ba ha bay makaibug At home, they would be envious.” 11 The panglima’s lack of shame or absence of sense of honor in this and next quatrains underlines the importance of integrity and honor in Tausug culture. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University In asawa limaksu 125 The wife jumped up (saying), “Ba usug kaw way tantu.” “You are a useless man” In asawa limaksu, The wife jumped up (saying), “Usug kaw way tantu. “You are a useless man.” Karian in kalis ku; Give me my kris, Ba hirayang putun ku.” I will pick up my dear daughter.” Nagsakap in asawa 126 The wife dressed up. Iyatud na sin bana. Her husband stared at her. Wayruun suwara; They said nothing to each other; Apit pa magbinasa. (In fact) they almost fought. Ampa in bata’bata’ 127 Meanwhile, the little boy In tulik bukun ganta’ Was crying uncontrollably, Timawag pa ha ina’, Calling out to his mother, “Ba magad aku kan kaka’!” “I will go with you to my sister.” “Ina’ magad ba aku, 128 “Let me go with you, Mother. Magput kan kaka’ku. To pick up my sister. Bang duun ha landu ku, Even if it kills me, Bisan hikamatay ku!” Death I will not avoid!” In bata’ nagkabtangan. 129 The little boy added, Hi kaka’ kaulungan “My sister should be pitied. Bang awn kalambungan If ever I see (a soldier), Ku hi kaka’ ku unungan! I will avenge my sister!” Bisan aku bata’bata’, “Although I am only a child, Unungan ku hi kaka’! I will avenge my sister! In sundalu kastila The Spanish soldiers, Bunuun ku way bidda’!” I will fight them my way!” “Ayaw na kaw magagad. 131 “Do not come with me anymore. Din a kaw tumagad. Just wait here. Hi ama’ mu maglawag Your father might get tired Ba sumuhun magagad.” Waiting for you.” “La ila ina’ ku 132 “Oh, my God! Mother, Paagara na aku. Please let me go with you. Hi kaka’ tumtumun ku. I shall always remember sister. Ba ina’ matay na aku!” I will die, Mother!” “Yari ra hi ama’ mu 133 “Your father is here, after all, Ba magpakaun kaymu. To feed you. Manaw pa hi ina mu Your mother has to go out. Paguwi’ ha’ ini buhi ka unu.” I will come home alive or not.” “Bisan aku buhiun 134 “How can I live Bang hi kaka’ wa duun. Without my sister here? Sulayan ku kadtuun I will try to go there May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Ba putun ku kawaun.” To pick up and get her.” Ina’ ampa nanaug 135 The mother then went down Nagbalik pa simud. But returned and reentered the house. Simiyum pa in maksud Her purpose was to kiss Ba piya anak limungtud. And embrace her son. Nanaug na pa lupa’; 136 Then she descended to the ground; In susa bukun ganta’, She was so much worried Luha’ di’ magkakawa Her tears never stopped falling Tumtum ha bata’bata’. From night till morning. In ina’ nagpapanaw, 137 While his mother walked, Ba in anak naghuhundaw, The child was at the window looking. Ari alla hi rayang. How touching she was, dear. In luha’ di maghulaw Her tears did not stop falling Marum pa maadlaw. From night till morning. Pa kuwatil dimantung 138 She arrived at the headquarters Ba anak in piyapatung. And stared at her daughter. Lingkat di’ mapalambung Her beauty was beyond compare. Iban tunang nagunung. And she died together with her lover. “Kailu sin anak ku! 139 “How awful is my daughter! Ba magtu’ na in napas ku. It is as if my breath is stopping. Hi ama’mu way tantu; Your father is useless; Di’ maulung kaymu.” He has no compassion for you.” Limumpat pa namahit 140 She jumped up and raged Ba siyayang na in kalis As she raised the kris. Kailu hi matagpis; Matagpis12 is pitiful: Nagunung hangka’ gulis. She will meet the same fate. Ubus ampa imulak. 141 And then she shouted. Namahit pa imulak. Angrily she shouted. Ba in sundalu nanimbak Then the soldiers fired. “Bang sukud tiyampak, “If I face my fate, Baa pit baran masipak.” My body would have been broken.” Naglagut lawa tuu, 142 She hacked left and right. Ina’ ha lawm hilu The mother was crazy with anger (while) In kastila’ sundalu The Spanish soldiers Dagan buta bisu. Were running left and right.13 In hambuuk kapitan 143 There was one captain Ba timimbak nakaminsan Who, with one shot, In sakali kiyugdan Hit her 12 “Matagpis” seems to be the name of Putli’ Isara’s mother. 13 Literally “were running like blind or deaf,” an expression used to describe how cowards run away from battle. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Ha taas puun tiyan. Above the belly. Wala’ da naghaatay, 144 She did not mind, however, Ba ha unud wala’ lumapay, For it did not pierce her flesh. “Bang in punglu limipay, “If the bullet does not zigzag, Duun aku mapatay. Then it can kill me. Bang in punglu’ limipay, If the bullet comes straight, Duun aku mapatay.” Then it can kill me.”14 Malasig maalitsu 145 Actively and skillfully Simung pa sundalu. She moved on Ba miyatay pa in pitu Killing seven more. Pagtimbak nakaruwa, 146 When the second shot was fired Imuyum kimatawa. She laughed and smiled. Baran wala’ mapaya; Her body had not tired; Ba pa tuhan limaya. In God she trusted. In agi sin kapitan, 147 The captain said, “Ba subay natu lawakan. “Let us retreat. Isug Sali saytan; She is as bold as the devil15 Sin punglu’ di abutan.” No bullet can hit her.” Tagna’ suga limambung, 148 When the sun cast its first shadow In timbak nakahundung, The firing ceased. Pagubus nagtalumpung Then a telescope was used Ba bang kiyugdan matapung. To find out if she was mangled. Asawa sin Panglima 149 (But no,)the panglima’s wife Malasig wa’ lumamma. Was at it still, without cease. Kalis di’ maupama; No one underestimates the kris Ba di’ matapus sin lima. Even if barely held by the hand. Pagubus hiyudhuran 150 Then bullets rained on her Sin timbak piyudpuran. Subjecting her to volleys of fire. Amuna in ka kugdan. She was hit, Ba himantak na in baran. And she collapsed. In sakali miyatay; 151 So then she died; Ba bata’bata’ nagmatay. The little boy wailed. In sakali miyatay; And then she died; Bata’bata’ nagmatay. The little boy wailed. Tu sila nagabay The three of them were side by side Sin kura’ siyusungay As a horse nosed her out.16 14 According to local beliefs influenced by traditional Sufism, a Tausug believer fighting for God and using the proper spell can be, God willing, invulnerable and will redirect the bullets by making them zigzag. 15 Saytan for Muslims is a mischievous and pugnacious angel who rebelled against God and to use the Christian term “Satan” would not do justice to the context, hence the use of “as bold as the devil.” May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Parang sabil in bata’ 152 The boy decided to do parang sabil Tiyagamahan kura’. The horse was getting ready. Biya tuud piyatta’ (He saw his mother) as in an image Limambung ha pilita’ Floating over the lamp. Agi sin bata’bata’ 153 The little boy said, “Ba kita’ ku hi ina’!” “I saw my mother!” Nagtawag na ha ama’ Then he called out to his father, “Kita’ ku hi ina’ “I saw my mother Ba yadtu ha taas kura’!” Astride a horse!” Hi Panglima simambung, 154 The panglima answered, “Gampa kaw himundung. “Better stop talking. Bisan sila limambung, Were they to appear, Ba di da aku umulung.” I will not pity them.” “Maybaha’ ama’ ku? 155 “Why is that so, my father? Limambung ha mata ku. Her image appeared before my eyes, Karian in kalis ku; Please hand me the kris; Hi ina’ urulun ku.” I will follow Mother.” “Ayaw na kaw maglata 156 “Do not talk nonsense. Umurul di na kita. We will not follow her. Unu kagawahan ta What are we worrying about? Ba mataud in pilak ta. We have plenty of money.” “In pilak ta mataud 157 “We have plenty of money Ha bay makaibug. At home, we are the envy (of all). Bang sin tau maatud, If the people could see it, Ba sa’ sila imibug. They would be envious. “In pilak ta ha bay. 158 “Our money is at home Sa’ kita magukay. Let’s examine what’s there. Ba bisan tahun lumabay, Years may pass, Di’ pa kita mapilay.” Never will we be wanting.” Anak nagumbul Satu 159 The son who was the best (around) Ba nagkabtangan na ridtu, Then said, “Ama’ umurul na aku. “Father, I will follow them (as) Makasipug ha tau.” We are so dishonored!” Anak tunggalan usug 160 The only son Ba ha langgung namawgbug. Upheld his sister’s (honor) In hangkan nagmakusug The reason he was firm Ha kampung maka sipug. Before his relatives so dishonored. 16 The horse, or Burak, is back to bring the mother to heaven and her expected rewards and was seen by the son. He will be back to wair for him in case he is “martyred.” May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University “La ila ama’ ku, 161 “Oh, my God! Father, Ba maapa tuud, aku, Please forgive me. In panaw hi lanjal ku. I have to proceed with my journey. Magparang ha’ ini sabil aku.” I will do parang sabil.” Nagtuy na miyanaw 162 He then left immediately Sin pulakpulak adlaw. In broad daylight. Dunya nagandahaw; The world, a mix of rain and sunshine;17 Ba parang sabil hi bunglaw. Would be rinsed by the parang sabil. Di ku na hika sipat, 163 “I cannot bear it any longer. Ama’ bang sumaigpat Father, whenever I remember. Ubus magmaaripat, After I have said my prayer, Ha kuwatil in tampat.” My grave will be the headquarters.” Namaid pa imulak 164 He shouted his farewell Ba gumi pantun nalarak. As the earth shook. Isug di’ hika sipat With courage beyond compare Na nakamatay pa upat. He did kill four soldiers. Ubus nagpabayta’; 165 Then information was sent out; Nagparaak in sara’; An order was issued: Bang mapatay in bata’, Were the little boy to die Katu makasiksa’. The blame will be put on us. In agi sin kastila’ 166 A Spanish (officer) ordered Ba hipa saggaw in bata’. That the boy be arrested. “Dahun ta maghula’ “Let us allow him to stay with us Ba hisampay pa Manila’.” Until we go to Manila.” In kastila’ nagdaak 167 The Spanish (officer) ordered Di’ tuud hipa timbak (That the child) should not be shot. “Kawaun ku na anak “I will adopt him Ba aku na in magipat. And take care of him.” “Ayaw na hipa gantung; 168 “Do not hang him; In bata’ makaulung. The boy is so helpless. Bang lumaggu’ sumung, When he grows up and matures, Kalukalu manulung. He might be of help (to us). “In sundalu miyatay 169 “The soldiers who have died Niyat ta na miyugsay. Have reached their destiny. In bata’ bang lumugay, The boy, in the future, Ba makasugpat ha atay.” May help soften the hear (of the people).” Biyutangan pamikil 170 A plan was (thus) made Ba tiyapuk pa kuwatil To conceal him at the headquarters. 17 Andahaw refers to “the phenomenon of rain and shine together,” which, for “old folk” was an omen of imminent death in the community, which is the case here. May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Biyutangan pamikil A plan was made Tiyapuk ha’ dayang pa kuwatil To conceal him, dear, at the quarters. Andu’ a-a Oh what a pity! Hambuuk way timpil, Alone without support, Ha lawn piya tapil. He was on his own. In sundalu hambuuk 171 There was one soldier Pa kuwatil timampuk. Who had hid in the headquarters. Marayaw in kasuksuk. He concealed himself so well. Ba wa’ sin atu mabatuk. That the people could not find (him). Bata’bata naglawag 172 The little boy searched (for that soldier). Ba nagkulibut sin ad. As he rounded the fence. Limingkud na timagad He sat and waited Ba way na maagad. As nobody followed. Ubus ampa miyanaw 173 Then after walking Pa kuwatil himundaw. He took a look in the headquarters. Sundalu siyanaw He searched for the soldier Ba tiyawag “day” ba kaw!” As he called out, “Come here!” In Karatung pa hagdan, 174 Upon reaching the stairs Ba piya bay gimaban He went up the building Sundalu tiyagaran He waited for the soldier Ba nasaggaw na in baran But instead he was the one caught. Huun marayaw na 175 Yes, now very well then Ba giyuwa’ in sundalu The soldier went out Bata’bata’ kiyadtu And approached the child. Kapitan imalistu The shrewd captain (said), “Ba ikaw na in anak ku” “You are now my son.” “Huun marayaw na 176 “Yes, very well, then In ama’ ku ikaw na.” You are now my father. “Huun marayaw na, Yes, very well then, Piyag hatihan na. It is already understood. In anak mu aku na I am now your child, In ama’ ku ikaw na.” And you are now my father.” In agi sin kapitan 177 Then the captain said, “kasi hangka labban “My love for you is great. Bang sin Tuhan tugutan, If God will permit, Di’ ta na kaw lawakan. I will never stay away from you.” “Anak ta na kaw tuud 178 “You are now really my son Ba sampay pa lupa’ punud Until death.18 Kasi ku di’ magpunud My love will never die Ha anak Tausug”. For my Tausug son.” 18 The expression pa lupa punod literally means “until the solid earth” or “until death.” May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Kailu sin Panglima 179 The tearful panglima Ha anak naglawag na. Looked for his son. Panaw pa kaina, He searched for a while, Ba Kaingati ha’ dayang wala na. But he could not find him, dear. Kailu sin Panglima 180 The tearful panglima Ha anak naglawag na. Looked for his son. Panaw pa kaina He searched for a while Ba Kaingati wala’ na But he could not find him, dear. “Pasari na madtu 181 “Never mind,” (he said), Maglawag di’ na aku “I will not look for him anymore. Bisan isaisa ku Though I am now alone, Magbuhi’buhi aku” I can still go on living.” Wala’ da nagpalugay; 182 He did not (search) for long; Naghula’ da ba bay. He remained in his house. Duwa bulan da limabay Only months later, Ba nasakit da miyatay. He got sick and died. Tammat na in kalangan 183 The song has ended; Di’ ta na karungangan Nothing more can we add to it. Hi bin panumtuman We leave it as a reminder Ha manga kakampungan To relatives and friends.19 19 Kakampungan means “kinfolk.” In Sinug, however, it is also used to refer to anyone close or part of the extended kinship system, as reflected in our translation, “relatives and friends.” May Temple-Maravilles. Literatures of Mindanao. Languages Department. School of Liberal Arts. Ateneo de Zamboanga University Balyan Sugilanon ni Macario Tiu Nagtaka si Lando kung bakit marami ang tao sa sira at abandonadong kapilya. Nakikisilong sa puno ng niyog ang karamihan sa kanila habang nasa loob ng kapilya ang iba. May mga hindi siya namumukhaan. Marahil ay taga ibang baryo. Tumatango ang mga nakakakilala sa kanya o nakikipagkamay nang makita siya. Nilapitan niya ang kumpareng si Berto na isa sa mga nakasalampak sa damuhan. “Pre, parang may nangyayari dito. Anong meron?” tanong ni Lando. “Wala, Pre,” sagot ni Berto. “Nagpapagamot lang god.” “Uy, may medical mission pala dito? Wala akong nabalitaan, da.” “Aw. Wala god. Inato lang. Balyan ang nanggagamot.” “Balyan?” “Manggagamot sa mga Bagobo. Kung sa Ingles, medicine man.” “A, baylan.” “Mabalyan’ o ‘balyan’ ang tawag nila sa Bagobo. Baylan sa atin. Balyan o baylan, pareho lang.” “Ganoon ba? Sino naman ang balyan sa kapilya?” “Si Datu Pikong.” “Sino? Si Datu Pikong? ‘Yong lasenggo?” tanong ni Lando na halos hindi makapaniwala. “Siya nga,” natatawang sagot ng kanyang kumpare. “Huwag ka ngang magbiro, ‘Pre. Kailan god ‘yan natutong manggamot?” “Matagal na, ‘Pre. Marami ang nagsasabing epektibo raw. Kaya nga nandito ako. Susubukan ko rin. Wala namang mawawala.” Umiling-iling si Lando. “Ako, Pre, naniniguro ako. Kung usapang pangkalusugan ay sa doktor gyod ako. Di baleng gumastos. Pero, teka muna. Galing ako sa parokya. Nagkausap na kami ni Padre Cevallos, itatayo na ulit ang samahan sa ating kapilya.” “Uy, mabuti naman, Pre. Sige, tutulong ako sa pag-organisa. Tinatamad na rin akong pumunta sa Gumalang para lang sa misa.” “Kaya nga pumunta ako dito upang inspeksyonin ang kapilya. Parang marami-rami rin ang aayusin. Kaya, Pre, hindi na natin ipapagamit kay Datu Pikong ang kapilya. Sabihan natin na maghanap na lang siya ng ibang lugar kung saan pwede siyang manggamot. Tara, kausapin natin.” Magkasamang pumasok sa kapilya ang magkumpare. Nakita ni Lando si Datu Pikong na nakaupo sa isang mahabang bangko. May katabaan ito, nakasuot ng putol na maong at kupas na polo syirt. May ginagamot itong matandang lalaki. Hinaplasan niya ang braso nito, pagkatapos ay tinuthoan ang ulo. “O, sige, magaling ka na,” sabi ni Datu Pikong. Nagpasalamat ang matanda, tumayo at nag-abot ng beynte pesos kay Datu Pikong. Tumanggi si Datu Pikong, ngunit nilagay ng matanda ang pera sa mesa bago umalis. Umiling-iling si Datu Pikong at sinuksok ang pera sa kanyang bulsa. Nang makita sila ni Datu Pikong, kinamayan sila nito. “Magandang hapon sa inyo, Sir Lando, Berto,” sabi ng balyan. “Magandang hapon,” sabay na sumagot ang magkumpare. Umusog ang balyan para makaupo sa bangko sina Lando at Berto. Pinagmasdan ni Lando ang loob ng kapilya. Butas-butas na ang bubong na gawa sa nipa. Ang ibang bahagi ay malapit nang bumagsak dahil sa rupok. Kung malakas ang hangin, baka bumigay na ang nipa, sa isip ni Lando. Delikado na. Kailangan na gyong palitan. Gayon din ang mga sawaling dingding ng kapilya. Butas- butas na, marahil tinutusok-tusok ng mga batang naglalaro. “Ngayon ko lang nalaman na nanggagamot diay ka, Datu Pikong,” ayon kay Lando. Nahihiyang ngumiti ang balyan at lumitaw ang bungi ng kanyang mga ngipin sa itaas. “Oo nga, Sir Lando,” sabi nito. “Paano kasi, ako ang pinili ng aking lolo na sumunod sa kanya. Ayoko sana ngunit binagabag ako ng abyan. Mahirap tanggihan.” “Ano ang abyan?” “Diwata,” sagot ng balyan. “Espiritu na nagpoprotekta at gumagabay sa tao.” Natawa si Lando sa sagot ng balyan. Alam niyang hindi na purong lumad si Datu Pikong, ngunit naniniwala pa rin ito sa mga pamahiin. Kung sabagay, kahit sa hanay ng mga Bisayang setler, marami rin ang mga mapaniwala. Kaya nga maraming pasyenteng Bisaya si Datu Pikong. “Ang abyan ba ang nagturo sa ‘yong manggamot, Datu Pikong?” tanong ni Lando. “Sa pagkakaalam ko, nagbibigay raw ito ng mahiwagang libreto. Lumulutang daw ito sa sapa at naaanod na kontra sa agos!” “Hindi ko alam. Kuwento ‘yan ng mga Bisaya. Iba ang nangyari sa akin. Sinasapian ako ng abyan.” “Kilala mo ba ang abyan na sumapi sa ‘yo?” “Si Apo Sandawa.” Gustong matawa ni Lando sa kanyang narinig, ngunit pinigilan niya ang sarili. Apo Sandawa? Kilala niya si Apo Sandawa. Ayon sa mga alamat na kanyang narinig, si Apo Sandawa ang diwatang nakatira sa Bundok ng Apo. Siya ang may-ari ng nasabing bundok kaya ipinangalan ito sa kanya. Pinagmasdan ni Lando ang ilang mga taong nakikinig sa usapan nila ni Datu Pikong. Seryoso silang nakikinig. Makikita sa kanilang mga mukha ang pagnanais na madagdagan ang kanilang alam tungkol kay Apo Sandawa. At hindi sila binigo ni Datu Pikong. “Si Apo Sandawa ang isa sa pinakamakapangyarihang diwata sa mundo. Siya ang tunay na manggagamot, hindi ako. Instrumento lamang ako. Sinusunod ko lang ang kanyang utos.” Naisip ni Lando na malaking kasinungalingan ang pinagsasabi ni Datu Pikong at ang kanyang panggagamot ay isang malaking panloloko. Naaawa siya sa mga taong pumipila upang magpagamot. Malinaw na pineperahan lang sila. Magsasalita pa sana si Lando ngunit lumapit ang isang matandang lalaki na dinadaing ang mga kati-kating tumubo sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng kanyang katawan. Hindi ito gumaling sa mga gamot na ininom o ipinahid niya. Nagtaka si Lando nang pinindot-pindot ng balyan ang kanyang kaliwang palad gamit ang kanyang kanang daliri. Hindi maintindihan ni Lando ang ginagawa ng balyan. Mas nagtaka siya nang tila may dinukot ang balyan sa kanang dibdib nito at idiniin ang kanang kamay sa tenga. “Hello? Hello? Apo Sandawa?” sabi ng balyan sa kanyang kanang kamao. Saka pa lamang naintidihan ni Lando ang nangyayari. Nagtetelepono diay ang balyan! Hindi telepono, kundi cellphone! Gumagamit umano ng cellphone ang balyan! Sa halip na matawa, nainis ng sobra si Lando. Kay laking kahibangan! Harap-harapang panloloko! Nanliit ang mga mata ni Lando habang tinitingnan ang mga tao. Hindi sila tumatawa o nagtataka. Tila sanay na silang makita si Datu Pikong na gumamit ng kunwaring cellphone upang tawagan si Apo Sandawa. “Hello? Apo Sandawa? Tumawag ako dahil may gustong magpagamot. Nasaan ka na? Hinihintay na kita.” Nagtaka si Lando dahil humikab ang balyan at nagkunwaring matutulog. Nilagay ng balyan ang kanyang kamay sa ibabaw ng mesa at iyon ang ginawang unan. Wala pang sampung segundo bigla siyang nagising. Nangalumbaba siya. “Ikaw, Karyas, nangangati ka dahil may ginawa kang kalokohan sa gilid ng sapa,” ayon sa balyan na nag-iba ang boses. “Galit sa ‘yo ang gamawgamaw. Kailangan mong mag-alay ng nganga. Hala, sumayaw ka diyan na parang unggoy para maaliw mo sila.” Nagkamot ng ulo si Karyas ngunit sinunod pa rin ang utos ng balyan. Nagtungo ito sa isang maluwag na lugar at doon ay lumundag-lundag na parang unggoy. Nagtawanan ang mga tao at inengganyo pa siya sa pamamagitan ng pagpalakpak sa saliw ng kanyang pagsayaw. Lumundag lundag si Karyas, nanginig at nagkamot ng katawan na parang unggoy. Ginaya ang mukha ng unggoy at sumigaw ng “Krrrh, krrrh!” Umakyat din siya sa kunwaring sanga ng punong kahoy. Habang naaaliw ang mga tao sa panonood sa sayaw ni Karyas, nagngingitngit naman sa galit sa balyan si Lando. Sumusobra na siya. Inaabuso lamang ng balyan ang tiwala ng mga tao sa kanyang kakayahang manggamot, tapos lolokohin lang diay niya, pagmumukhaing tanga at pagkakaperhan! Sa loob pa gyod ng kapilya! Kung hindi lang sana siya edukado, pinahiya na niya ang balyan para matigil na ang panloloko nito. Ngunit pinigilan ni Lando ang sarili. Matapos ang sayaw ni Karyas, pinagsabihan ni Lando si Datu Pikong na gagamitin na ng samahan ang kapilya. Kinakailangan na ng balyan na maghanap ng ibang lugar. Pumayag ang balyan at hindi na umalma. Lilipat siya agad. Kahit na madaling kausap si Datu Pikong, umuwi si Lando na inis na inis sa balyan. Sa kanyang bahay, naabutan ni Lando ang kanyang asawang si Luisa at ang hilot na si Manang Minda. Malaki na ang tiyan ni Luisa. “Kumusta ang lakad ninyo kay Doktora Locsin, Luisa?” tanong ni Lando. “Mabuti naman. Kinumpirma niya ang sabi ni Manang Minda na manganganak ako sa loob ng dalawa o tatlong linggo,” sagot ni Luisa. “Walang nakikitang problema si Doktora sa panganganak ni Ma’am Luisa, Sir Lando. Maganda ang lahat ng resulta ng test. Siempre, dahil preparadong preparado si Ma’am Luisa. May wastong eksersays, maayos na diyeta,” sabi ni Manang Minda. “At magaling ang hilot,” natatawang dagdag ni Lando. “Puyra buyag,” sagot ni Manang Minda. “Nagtanong pala si Doktora Locsin kung gusto ni Ma’am Luisa na magpaultra sawnd upang malaman ang kasarian ng inyong anak, ngunit tumanggi si Ma’am.” “Ako rin, ayoko,” pahabol ni Lando. “Mas mabuting sa panganganak ko na malaman. Teka muna, Manang Minda, di ba may dugong Bagobo ka?” “Oo. Bagobo ang lolo ng lolo ko. Bakit man?” “Alam mo ba kung ano ang gamawgamaw?” “Diwata. Kung hindi ako nagkakamali siya ang nagmamay-ari sa tubig. Bakit diay, Sir Lando?” “Galing ako ng kapilya kanina. Nanggagamot doon si Datu Pikong. Sinabi niyang galing sa gamawgamaw ang sakit ni Karyas. Ano sa tingin mo, Nang Minda?” “Aw, ‘yan ang tradisyonal na paniniwala ng mga lumad,” sagot ni Manang Minda. “Eh ‘yang panggagamot ni Datu Pikong?” “Hindi ko alam, Sir Lando. Hindi ko pa nasubukan. Pero marami ang nagsasabing magaling siyang manggagamot. Ang kanyang lolo ang tunay na balyan. Ayon sa mga kuwento, sa kanya pinasa ang kakayahang manggamot.” “May duda ako, Nang Minda. Mantakin mong pinasayaw niya si Karyas na parang unggoy upang gumaling umano? Nagalit daw ang gamawgamaw?” “Yan ang sabi-sabi. Kung may atraso ka sa mga diwata, may mangyayari sa iyo. Kaya kailangang magbayad upang maibsan ang kanilang galit,” sabi ni Manang Minda. “Taong 2005 na ngayon. May naniniwala pa ba sa mga ganyan?” sabi ni Lando. “Huwag ka na god mangialam, Lando,” sabad ni Luisa. “Kung ayaw mong maniwala, eh di ‘wag. Total, hindi ka naman pinakikialaman ni Datu Pikong. Minsan baya, may mga bagay na hindi natin maunawaan, hindi natin maarok.” Tiningnan ni Lando ang kanyang asawa. “Ang problema, ginagamit niya ito upang pagkaperhan ang iba. Kailangang mahinto na ang kanyang ginagawa. Malinaw na nanloloko siya. Bilang guro, tungkulin kong turuan ang mga tao.” “Pinagbabawal sa balyan ang pagtanggap ng bayad,” sabi ni Manang Minda. “Puwede siyang tumanggap ng donasyon, pero hindi niya puwedeng pilitin ang mga tao na magbayad.” “Ada, Lando,” pagbuyag ni Luisa. “Hayaan mo lang god si Datu Pikong. Kaibigan ko kaya siya, no. Mabuting tao ‘yan. Hindi na nga naglalasing ngayon. Kung may magrereklamo, saka ka lang umaksiyon.” Hindi na pinahaba ni Lando ang usapan. Basta para sa kanya, isang magaling na manloloko si Datu Pikong. Gamawgamaw! Ang galing magdrama ng kagwang. May patulog-tulog pang nalalaman. At may pa-iba-iba pa ng boses. Kahit na gumagamit na ng cellphone ang hinampak, naniniwala pa rin ang mga tao! Kawawa intawon. Nagpasalamat si Lando dahil masuwerte siya at nakapagtapos siya ng pag-aaral. May alam siya tungkol sa siyensiya. Kaya nga sa doktor niya pinapapunta si Luisa para sa regular na check-up kahit na may tiwala siya kay Manang Minda, ang pinakamagaling na hilot sa kanilang baryo. Unang pagbubuntis ito ni Luisa at dahil unang anak nila, naniniguro gyod siya. Ayon kay Doktor Locsin, normal ang pagbubuntis ni Luisa at inaasahang normal din ang kanyang panganganak. Ngunit kung magkakaproblema man, maaari lang din siyang itakbo sa Calinan, labinlimang kilometr

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