Buklog Ritual

Buklog is an elaborate thanksgiving ritual performed by the Subanen people in the Zamboanga Peninsula of Southern Philippines. The Buklog tradition is known to have originated from rice farmers who regularly move from one location to another to clear more forest for planting fields. They also raise pigs, chickens, cattle, and water buffaloes.

A Buklog is performed to appease and express gratitude to the spirits for many reasons, which might include a bountiful harvest, recovery from illness, or admonishment of a newly appointed leader. The Buklog has mythological origins and is mentioned in age-old epics. Buklog is usually conducted together with various attendants led by the "Timuay", head of the village, who plans the rituals to express gratitude to spirits. Known for its elevated, flexible platform, there is a structure that serves as a sacred and social space for rituals and community merriment.

In a typical Buklog performance, gongs are beaten, songs are rendered (both traditional ones and those which are improvised for the occasion), and people take turns sipping "basi" rice beer through reeds in the jars. Other activities include offering coin offerings, inviting the spirits of the departed to feast, invoking spirits of water and land, and performing music and dance.

Afterwards, participants dance on an elevated wooden structure called the Buklog, which is considered a sacred space since it resonates with a sound believed to please the spirits. This dance marks the renewal of spiritual and interpersonal relationships. All community members, regardless of age, gender, social status, education, and mental and physical capability, are encouraged to participate in the rituals and festivities that continue for several days.

The ritual system is the most compelling cultural marker of the Subanen, as well as the strongest unifying force of the community. It is through the Buklog system that the Subanen's knowledge is respected, preserved, and transmitted. It is the most compelling symbol of their individual and collective identity, and the strongest force pulling the community together. Buklog rituals and their practices strengthen and enforce all human rights ratified by the Philippines, including economic, social, cultural, and political rights.

Although the Subanen is extremely capable of adapting to ensure their culture survives, the Buklog have become extremely vulnerable. Throughout the years, the frequency and extent of the practice of their ritual system have become irregular and have diminished drastically. Today, the ritual is only conducted once every seven to nine years.