Lake Sebu School of Living Traditions (SLT) is a T'boli cultural center to cater the need of transferring Indigenous Knowledge Skills and Practices ( IKSP) to young children and youth. Perched on a hill overlooking a placid lake in the hinterlands of southern Philippines, a traditional T'boli hut housed a School for Living Traditions (SLT), run by T'boli cultural worker Oyog "Maria" Todi. Since 1
994, Maria – or Ate Mayang, as she is fondly called – has established non-profit groups that promote T’boli arts and culture through the Helubong Cultural Dance Troupe, and help uplift the education and livelihood of indigenous peoples through the Kesetifun Cultural Care Foundation. The T’boli are one of the several indigenous peoples – or "lumads" – in Mindanao. These ethnic groups once occupied a majority of the island, but due to the arrival of settlers from other parts of the country in the early 20th century, as well as sporadic ethno-political conflict, they have been marginalized to highland areas such as Lake Sebu in South Cotabato. Through the decades, industrialization and evangelization have also changed the way of life of many of these native peoples, with their culture, heritage and traditions being replaced by modern ideas, methods and practices. The rich culture of the T'boli consists of unique music, dances and folklore. They are also known for their exquisite handicrafts like t'nalak (abaca textile) and brass work. After heavy rainfall last May 2012, Maria's cultural school collapsed completely due to weakened foundations. With the financial support of private donors and organizations, a sturdier tribal house was rebuilt, serving not only as a cultural learning center for T'boli youth, but also as a traditional homestay for travelers who want a culturally enriching stay in Lake Sebu. The new school was constructed using native materials such as bamboo and cogon grass, as it also showcases indigenous architecture quickly vanishing elsewhere in Lake Sebu and across the country. You can continue supporting the T'boli SLT by staying in their native homestay for a cultural immersion, and purchasing their handicrafts like handwoven products, beaded jewelry and brass work. And, in doing so, help preserve and pass on indigenous culture and heritage for the next generations.
