The traditional customs of the Manobo and Mamanwa populations are embedded in the Dinagat Islands' cultural legacy and are celebrated through Bugkosan sa Isla, a celebration of culture and tradition in the islands.
Because the word "Bugkosan" means "to tie" or "to bind," it captures the heart of the celebration, which is the symbolic unity of the various cultures found on the islands.
Originating from native customs, Bugkosan sa Isla has developed into a lavish festival that reflects the Dinagat Islands' fortitude and cultural richness.
Rich symbolisms
The extensive use of symbolism in Bugkosan sa Isla's festivities and ceremonies is one of its most notable characteristics.
The complex tapestry illustrating the common identity of the Dinagat Islands' people is woven together through symbolism as the connecting thread between the various cultural components.
Every element of the event, from ceremonies to traditional dances, has layers of value that link the community to its cultural origins.
Pagbukos and traditional rituals
The binding ritual, or pagbugkos, is a major rite in Bugkosan sa Isla. Traditional woven ropes are knotted together during this ceremony to represent the collaboration and unity of the several communities in the Dinagat Islands.
The binding emphasizes the people's commitment to cooperating for the common good and symbolizes their interconnectedness.
In ceremonial performances, gestures can also symbolize elements of daily life, customs, or the relationship between people and the natural world. Their dance transforms into a visual storytelling tool that shares tales of lineage, ties to the community, and the diversity of the Dinagat Islands culture.
Traditional clothing's hues, designs, and materials symbolize the community's history, spirituality, and relationship to the natural world.
Most importantly, the communities' engagement from various backgrounds represents Bugkosan sa Isla's inclusiveness. As implied in the celebration’s name, it displays a dedication to harmony and respect among all the people that make up the Dinagat Islands.
Bugkosan sa Isla is a live example of the province's rich and varied cultural legacy, complete with traditional dances, culinary demonstrations, and traditions that set it apart.
