1. Tinikling:
- Tinikling is one of the most famous and iconic folk dances from the Philippines, particularly associated with the areas of Leyte and Samar in the Visayas region. However, it is also widely performed in Mindanao.
- Tinikling involves two performers, usually men, who rhythmically tap and move long bamboo poles on the ground while a third performer, often a woman, dances in between the poles, stepping or hopping gracefully to avoid them.
- The bamboo poles are hit against each other to produce a distinct tapping sound, creating rhythmic patterns that the dancer must coordinate their movements with.
- The dance is named after the Filipino word "tikling," which refers to a small, local bird that is known for its grace and agility in moving between tall grass and branches.
2. Maglalatik:
- Maglalatik is another popular folk dance in the Philippines, including in Mindanao. It originated in the province of Laguna in the Luzon region but is now widely practiced in various parts of the country.
- The dance is performed by a group of male dancers who reenact the gathering and preparation of coconuts or latik (a thick, creamy coconut product).
- Dancers utilize bamboo poles and coconut shells to create rhythmic patterns and movements. They bang the coconut shells together, resembling the cracking of coconut husks, and perform synchronized moves that depict the process of grating and squeezing coconut meat.
- The dance is typically accompanied by lively and upbeat music.
3. Binasuan:
- Binasuan is a folk dance that is primarily associated with the province of Ilocos Sur in the Luzon region. However, it is also performed in some areas of Mindanao.
- Binasuan translates to "glass" in English, referring to the use of glasses as props in the dance.
- Dancers balance and manipulate filled or half-filled glasses of rice wine or water on their hands, elbows, and heads while performing skillful and graceful movements.
- The use of glasses requires both balance and coordination, and dancers often perform impressive stunts like tossing and catching the glasses while dancing.
These are just a few examples of traditional folk dances that originated in Mindanao and remain an important part of the cultural heritage of the island's diverse ethnic communities.