Tboli Performers at Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

More than 40 different ethnic groups can be found in the Philippines. There are 18 tribal groups on the island of Mindanao. The most well-known is the T'boli Tribe that lives in the province of South Cotabato, around Lake Sebu. Since the arrival of settlers originating from the other islands of the Philippines, they gradually moved to the mountain slopes to live in scattered settlements in the Highlands.

This Tribal group is still living in a traditional way. comparable with how their ancestors lived centuries ago. The T'boli distinguish themselves from other Tribal Groups by their colorful clothes, bracelets and earrings, this tribe is famous for their complicated beadwork, wonderful woven fabrics and beautiful brass ornaments.
A T'boli legend tells that the T'boli are descendants of the survivors of a great flood. A man named Dwata warned the people of an impending great flood. But the tribe refused to listen, except for two couples, La Bebe and La Lomi, and Tamfeles and La Kagef. Dwata told them to take shelter in a bamboo so huge they could fit inside and in this way survive the flood. The story tells that the first couple is the ancestors of the T'boli and other highland ethnic groups, the second couple descended the other Filipino indigenous groups.

The T'boli culture is richly connected with and inspired by nature; their dances are a mimic from the action of animals such as monkeys and birds. The T'boli has a rich musical culture with a variety of musical instruments, but the T'boli music and songs are not meant for entertainment only. The Tribal songs are a living contact with their ancestors and a source of ancient wisdom. The T'boli believes that everything has a spirit which must be respected for good fortune. Bad spirits can cause illness and misfortune.
While Lake Sebu's endearing charm is partly due to its tranquil natural beauty, tourists are also captivated by the ethnic vibe of the local T'boli Tribe.

The T'boli Tribe is an indigenous tribe living in the highlands of Lake Sebu in South Cotabato in the Southern part of the Philippines.
The t'boli people believe in many Gods, their high regards with the spirits of nature is very much evident in their way of living.

One hears a T'boli maiden approaching by the tinkling of her little brass bells adorning her belt, bracelets and anklets. Her finery is typical of daily wear as the gracious T'boli is known for her elegant ways despite a simple lifestyle.
The tribe's culture is very much connected with nature, inspired by its natural environment, their dances mimicks those acts made by animals like monkeys and birds.
Because of the ancient art of t'nalak weaving, which is very much recognized worldwide, the T'boli tribe made its distinctive mark in the field of the culture and arts. The T'nalak fabric made from abaca fibers is very much respected and is considered as a sacred cloth, woven by gifted T'boli women famously known as the Dreamweavers.