THE STORY OF MARAGTAS
17 November 2024
Lifted from Joel Lopez
The Story of Maragtas
The Maragtas is a captivating story that tells the tale of the ten Bornean datus who fled their homeland and established a new life in the Philippines. It's a blend of history and legend, passed down through generations in oral tradition, and offers a glimpse into the early origins of the Visayan people.
Here's a summarized version of the Maragtas story:
The Journey Begins:
- Oppression in Borneo: The story begins in Borneo, where ten datus, noblemen with their families and followers, were living under the tyrannical rule of Sultan Makatu Nao.
- Seeking a New Home: The datus, tired of the sultan's oppressive rule, decided to escape and find a new home where they could live in peace and freedom.
- The Voyage: They embarked on a perilous journey, sailing across the treacherous seas in search of a suitable land.
Arrival in Panay:
- Encountering the Aetas: After a long and arduous voyage, the datus finally reached the shores of Panay Island in the Philippines. They encountered the Aeta people, the indigenous inhabitants of the island.
- Negotiating the Land: The datus, led by Datu Puti, negotiated with the Aetas to purchase land. They exchanged a golden salakot (hat) and a gold necklace for the territory, establishing a peaceful agreement.
The Founding of Settlements:
- Division of the Island: The ten datus divided the island among themselves, each establishing their own settlement and laying the foundation for the early Visayan communities.
- Datu Puti's Kingdom: Datu Puti, the most senior datu, established his kingdom in the area now known as Aklan.
- Other Kingdoms: The other datus also established their own kingdoms in different parts of Panay, including Datu Paduhinog who settled in the area of Irong-Irong (present-day Iloilo).
Cultural Exchange and Intermarriage:
- Integration and Harmony: The Maragtas highlights the interaction between the datus and the Aeta people, including intermarriage and cultural exchange. This blending of cultures contributed to the rich tapestry of the Visayan heritage.
The Maragtas' Significance:
- Oral Tradition and History: The Maragtas is an example of how oral traditions can preserve history and culture. It embodies the stories and experiences of the Visayan people, passed down through generations.
- Foundation of Visayan Identity: It plays a significant role in shaping the understanding of Visayan cultural heritage, tracing their lineage back to the Bornean datus.
- Source of Inspiration: The Maragtas serves as a source of inspiration for the Visayan people, reminding them of their rich history and the resilience of their ancestors.
While the Maragtas is a captivating story, it's important to remember that it's a blend of history and legend. While it offers a fascinating glimpse into the early history of the Visayan people, its historical accuracy is debated by historians. Nevertheless, it remains a vital part of Visayan cultural heritage, inspiring generations with its tales of courage, adventure, and the founding of a new home.
Source: https://kahimyang.com/kauswagan/articles/722/the-maragtas-legend