Many Visayan settlers here in Mindanao whisper about the power of the Manobo people (and other indigenous tribes) to use some primitive dark magic. The suspicions are not exactly unfounded. Ross Errington, a linguistics scholar, set out to investigate the matter and reported his findings in the journal Studies in Philippine Linguistics, published by the international volunteer organization Summer Institute of Linguistics.
In the article, which appeared in 1988, Errington classifies the magic of the Dulangan Manobos into four, according to its use: (1) magic to ward off misfortunes, (2) magic to heal the sick, (3) magic to attain success, and (4) magic to inflict harm on others. Towards the end of the article, the writer discusses Manobo magic in relation to the conversion to Christianity of many tribe members.
Visayans who will read the article will be surprised to find out that Manobo magic isn't much different from the traditional supernatural practices of lowlanders. Like the Visayans, the Manobos of Cotabato wear amulets to attract positive energy and utter chants to drive away illness-causing spirits. The difference is in the details. Read Errington's article to learn the nitty-gritty of Manobo magic. To cite it as a source, see Bibliography.
