Agyu: The Ilianon Epic of Mindanao* gyuis the Manobo folk hero, and the epic about him, Agyu, is widely spread in LA northern and central Mindanao, particularly in North Cotabato, Bukidnon, and Davao. To date there have been five collected texts of the epic, narrating different episodes in the life of the hero. These are: Manuel, E. Arsenio, Agyu: The Ilianon Epic of Mindanao. Manila: U.S.T. Press, 1969. Manuel, Corazon. “The Epic of Nalandangan: A Study of ‘Two Songs.” M.A. Thesis, University of the Philippines, 1976. Unabia, Carmen Ching. “An Exploratory of the Bukidnon Folk Literature." M.S. Thesis, Xavier University, 1976, Maquiso, Elena G. Ulahingan: An Epic of the Southern Philippines. Dumaguete lliman University, 1977. Opeiia, Ludivina. “Olaging: The Baitle yf Nalandangan. A Bukidnon Folk Epic.” Ainaadman, vol. 1 (1979 —227. E. A, Manuel's 4gyu was collected from Blagtas Pandakan, in the hamlet of Lamut, Kallinan district, Davao City. He sang it in the evening of May 9, 1963, before a small audience. He covered himself up with a white blanket as he sang Se Agyu epic after supper. Agyu, described by E. Arsenio Manuel as “the epic of the Ilianon people of Cotabato del Norte,” is 1,279 lines long and narrates seven distinct episodes in the Se of the main hero, Agyu. These are (1) the killing of the Moro datu by Kuyasu because of the incident of the beeswax; (2) the battle with the Moro who attacked gem in retaliation for the killing of their datu; (3) Agyu’s leading his people to sswther country where he found beehives and Mungan’s miraculous healing; (4) tas people’s return to Ayuman and their discoyery that Mungan had ascended to Se skyworld; (5) the invasion of Agyu’s country by enemies and the defeat of the esemy by Agyu’s youngest son, a mere boy, who also rejects a proposal of marriage made by the daughter of the defeated datu; (6) the saving of the country of Baklayon %y Agyu’s youngest son and another proposal of marriage to the boy-hero from *E. Arsenio Manuel, Agu: The Ilianon Epic nf Mindanao (Manila: U.S.T. Press, 1969). The s=nmary and the complete work are taken from this edition,228-/ Philippine Folk Literature: The Epies * Damiana Eugenio the grateful daughter of the datu; her following Agyu to his home and their marriage; (7) the successful repulsion of invaders by Agyu's youngest son, These episodes are marked in the detailed summary given below: Episode I: The killing of the Moro Datu. In the country of Ayuman lived the heroes Banlak, Agyu, and Ruyasu. In the Tlianon tradition these men were brothers, being the sons of Pamulaw. Agyu had four sisters, but only Yanbungan and Tkawangan are mentioned in the epic. Banlak’s wife named Mungan was badly afflicted with a consuming diesease, One of the activities that the Tlianon people engaged in was the gathering of beeswax which they traded with the Moro, securing from the latter articles and goods that they needed in their daily lives. Although these goods and articles ane nol mentioned in the epic, they have been identified as cloth, blankets, bolos (especially tabas which are used in weeding), betel nut and lime containers, salt, and coconut oil, these things being paid for with beeswax and and honey. One day Agyu sent nine kamu or Jumps of beeswax toa Moro datu, delivered by Kuyasw and Banlak. Angered by the small quantity of the payment, the Moro datu hurled the beeswax at Kuyasu, hurting the latter's foot, which had an ulcer, Kuyasu retaliated by spearing the Moro datu to death. He must have been left behind, for it was Banlak who hurried to Ayuman to inform Agyu and the others that Kuyasu had slain the Moro datu. Efpsode 2: The hatile with the Moros. Agyu predicted that there was going tu be a war, Inasmuch as the Moro datu had been killed, it was better for them to leave their homeland, They went to Tian mountain where Agyu ordered the building of a fort on its top, Agyu asked his followers to gather big stones and to cut logs. the rattan that held the logs and loosening them on the attackers. The result was almost decimation of the enemy. Those who escaped the slaughter fled. Episode 3: Agyu leads his people to another country. After this victory, Agyu decided to move to another country. He chose to go to Pinamatun mountain. They built houses and habitations there onee more. He left for Sandawa mountain to hunt, Lono’ tried to cut a path on the side of the mountain, while two women, Yambungan and Tkwangan, were left behind swinging on a vine from bank ro) bank over the stream. Something was stinging their feet and they shouted far Lono’ to core, Lono® found it was a bee and this enabled him to locate beehives in the hollows of palm trees, Then Agyu came back with a small wild pig: He asked Banlak to singe it, after which the animal was divided, and the meat and honey were distributed among the people. Then Agyu remembered Banlak's wile in Ayuman; she had been left behinel because of her affliction. But Banlak refused to bring her her share of the measAgyu: The Ilianon Epic of Mindanao / 229 and honey, for he had abandoned her, It was Lono’ who volunteered to bring Mungan her share, When he reached Ayuman, he found out that Mungan was already well. She gave Lono’ betel nut and young rice to distribute to the people. Lono’ returned to Pinamatun and told Agyn and the others the news that Mungan had already recovered and had become a beautiful lady. When Banlak heard that, he wanted fo return to his wife but Agyu reproved him. Then the betel nut and puajn young rice were distributed, Episode 4: Agyu and his people return to Ayuman. Because of Mungan’s recovery, Agyu decided to return to Ayuman, and this was done with his people following him. But when they arrived at Ayuman, they found Mungan gone. Agyu then decided to continue their journey further on until they reached the mouth of ‘Tigyandang, at the junction of Mudan’udan. They built houses and settled there. Episode 3: The invasion of Agyu’s country and the prowess of Agyu’s youngest son. Ta this country of Tigyandang, Agyu’s people were attacked. Agyu’s men fought on the seashore of the bay of Linayagon, but it was a losing battle. When only a few men were lefi, Agyu’s youngest son, a mere boy, volunteered to fight the enemy single-handed, In four days he defeated them. The leader of the invaders inviled Agyu’s young son to go home with him but the boy refused. When the leader reached home, however, he found the boy already there. The datu told his wife to call their daughter and for her to dress up. The datu told her to give chew to Tanagyaw, Agyu’s son, and to consider him her husband. Buy’anon invited him to sit on her lap, but Agyu's son refused, saying he was a mere boy: The he departed. Episode 6: Agyu’s son saves the country of Baklayon from invaders and gets another marriage proposal; this time the maiden is persistent, accompanies him to his home and finally succeeds in martying lam. Tanagyaw reached the country of Baklayon. There was consternation in the place. He learned that the village was going to be attacked by invaders. He was well received and was offered the young daughter of the datu in marriage. She came out and offered him chew and asked him to be her husband, saying he was going to be their savior, He fought the invaders and defeated them, The datu had a son named Bagsili’ who challenged him, but was killed in a man-to-man combat. The defeated datu took his leave and departed. Tanagyaw told the pcople to shout the ery of victory. He went up the house and squatted. Paniguan, the datu’s daughter, proposed marriage to hin for saving their country, but Tanagyaw said that he would help them even if they did not get married. ‘Then he said that he was going home. He departed, but the girl accompanied him home. Agyu was surprised ta see his son accompanied by a young lady. He asked the maiden who she was; she identified herself but insisted on marrying Tanagyaw. So the two were married, Fprisode 7: Agyu's country is invaded but Tanagyane: succesfully repudves the inewa sss Tanagyaw setlles in Sunglacwon with his wife. After some time, Agyu’s country is again endangered by invaders coming from across the sea. The men fought well but were overwhelmed. A connselor foretold doom. But ‘Tanagyaw reproved him. He230 / Philippine Folk Literature: The Epics * Damiana Eugenia put on is attire that was ten times thick and of nine layers, and picked up his shield and spear which could not be broken. Then he fought the invaders on the seashore. The dead piled up, mountains and hills of them. ‘The leader of the invaders invited ‘Tanagyaw to his country, But Tanagyaw said that the leader had been shamed. Upon hearing this, the leader’s son fought him, using a bar of gold. Tanagyaw in turn used his golden cane called Tanigid and with it reduced the challen; ger toa pounded mass. The leader returned defeated to his homeland. When peace had been restored, Agyu assigned the country of Sunglawon to his victorious son who settled there with his charming wife. (Manuel, E. Arsenio, Agyu: Epic of Mindanao, pp. 80-83; slightly edited)(The Iianon Text) Pamara’ ‘Tidlantuk: ampunan ku sumalabay ta habat tangkal ta buyaan ku sumagad ta kuyugan. Dangan di? no dangana rawala’ ku kabayaw a no da’ palimana lagang hue katangkayang vu singgalan sa sangda’ agyas sa binwkaylad, Su aman ba dangana nu sewatla hu kabayavo mambog palimanan nti lagang ku katangkayang Wada’ ladac pules din sa kulagna’ binukerylad na abpaliman ta lungbaton agdongan ta wyaginon su iyan da? banat sa untul Tibuyus ka, sagsagad dayung ka sagsulabay sue singgulaww sa sinangda? agyas sa binukaylad su baitul kay tungbaton ag’ itad kay yugingon. Su dun ta ag’ itadda (a linawa’ na gafnenan dun ta aghaitula sabang ta Nalandangan, Agyu: The Ilianon Epic of Mindanao / 231 Agyu 20 (Translation) Permission My words first to the spirits passing by the house whom | am requesting to goon. Do not listen to my song to my voice which is rising hear it not; my voice is getting louder for we are passing the time chjoying as one. Yor if you will listen my voice shall rise, why will you listen? My voice is getting louder. There is no reason why my voice should be hoarse there are people here listening to the song hearing the story which is a true one. Proceed on your way go on your journey for we are enjoying the peaple gathered here for we are going to follow a story narrate it ina song For we shall tell the story of the land of Gapunan which sprung from the junction of Nalandangan.22 / Philippine Folk Literature: The Epics « Damiana Eugen ULAHINGON Pagana’an daaga anay"an tayautwa duauon dan maghangon duon dan agyumantang tulawoas ta Ayuman sabang ta Stnimbulan. Amang kun sagdatuon daw kun sa binandalan nakautang stkandin amaningga ta andukon manggad ta mahindanaw matuud agbayadan nasawad ta nanggates fapin ta natalinan zvay’on ayan mabayad na wa'da’ masinantal wa'da’ madwuwapaku na taru ta patiyukan na mibbayad st Agyu ssiyaew na kamu’ na aru, Su mighayangit ka datu migsagyal ka binandal binandal ta andukon. dale la mahindanaw su wara’ nakasaut ta bayaran din na savokka na galus. ' A river by that name. * Another river: Part I Episode 1 26 ‘THE NARRATIVE SONG ‘The primeval land the first country that they built where they prospered was at the mouth of the Ayuman.! at the junction of the Sinimbulan.’ Ttis said there was a big datu said to be their great leader he incurred a debt articles taken from the Moros goods bought from the Mahindanaw were now due for payment worth a hundred really a thousand but could not be paid in full could not be paid half not even one-fourth: the beeswax that could be delivered by Agyu was but nine lumps, So the datu was maddened the great leader was furious the big chief of the Moros the datu of the Mahindanaw tor the agreement was not fulfilled that he was going to be paid a hundred lumps. Jaber3U 40 7 ‘The great leader moved quickly the datu of the Mahindanaw ) he struck the wound of Kuyasw’ with the beeswax making Kuyasu’ utter cries for his wound pained him so. So he? quickly took hold firmly gripped his barbed spear bladed without leash and quickly speared the Moro chieftain with sure aim struck him the datu of the Mahindanaw who fell on his side sprawled indeed. Banlak now hurried home passing by the house of Bagyasan Episode 2 The datu took his turn to speak in reply the honored leader said: today what we should do, for the enemies will sweep upon us the warriors will be here, we should get away immediately we should evacuate soon start to leave now leave in haste the mouth of Ayuman the junction of Simmbulan. They aimed to reach continued trekking up to the Ilian Mountain on top of Mount Mabpung. Agyu: The Ilianon Epic of Mindanao / 233 5t 60 80 90 by the house of Datu Lungha’; reaching his home now safely there he sat face-to-face looking at the big datu in front of the chieftain, Banlak started speaking: Big datu listen lend your ears great leader for there is no doubt warriors will be coming: batilers will be invading us. So itis narrated their big datu said said their honored leader: in a moment I speared him struck with good aim for the datu was slain. fallen the honored one. It did not take a long time they reached it were already there the country of Tian the land of Mabpung, The datu started to speak, said the honored chief: carefully hide the numerous lawaan logs for any day the warriors will come the enemies will be here. they determinedly picked a hundred stones each, ‘ Evidently Kuyasu’ was with somebody else, who was none other than Banlak. who is identified in the next stanza. So “he” refers to Banlak.234 / Philippine Folk Literature: ‘The Epics + Damiana Eugenia 100 110 Now the datu spoke the great leader said: now what we are going to do use these against the enemies. So the datu started to say said the great leader: build houses make living quarters. Let us wait Tetus watch the warriors come the enemies attack. So they got busy building houses erecting living quarters. Afier finishing their work completing everything they lived in peace all the people; lived quietly all the villagers. Tt did not take long in a short time (he warriors came the enemies arrived. The sign that they were there the omen that they had arrived 130. Part I Episode 3 The dain started to speak the great leader said: now they have to pass through grasslands (hat is their way. ‘The battle is finished the enemies are slain 150 was the darkness you couldn't see itwas pitch darkness that answered you the numerous enemies, It did not take a long time ina short time the warriors came the fighters were there all that you could see was darkness it was pitch darkness that answered you the numerous enemies the mass if Mahindanaw Moros The datu started to speak the great leader said: everyone must get up all of us should move. They jumped to the ground all the men like a sweeping eagle all the citizens. Thousands fell dead numerous enemies thousands were slain all the Mahindanaw Moros. let us leave now for the far land; it would be good for us to proceed to the distant country, It did not take long ina moment they arrived there160 170 180 reached the place the country of Pinamatun the land of Maladamal. The datu began to speak the great leader said: start building houses making habitations. After finishing this work the houses completed the great datu said the renowned leader spoke: now all of you listen my many followers stay here my men who cannot be counted I shall leave truly for Sandawa’ Mountain I shall hunt indeed with all my hounds. ‘Then he departed the well-known dat he went ahead the true chieflain. ‘There he was Matilom itis narrated Panganlawon it is said what he was doing was cutting a way through the Pinamatun Mountain. There was a maiden named Yambungan Pignayuan also Paniguan it is said Ikwangan the beautiful the maiden Kabuyawanon. Agyu: The Ilianon Epic of Mindanao / 235 190 200 210 What they were doing they were playing truly riding on a golden swing indeed swaying on a golden rattan. Like a decoy swinging sweeping over a mountain an eagle reaching very far flying over a mountain. It did not take long in a moment carne back the renowned datu returned the true chieftain, What he bagged was a small pig alittle bakatin hog. Matilom began to speak, Panganlawon said:' so there is something found by Lady Mayantaw something discovered by Lady Paniguan’ bees were found inside the hollow of a basyaw palmtree. The datu answered the renowned leader said distribute truly give lo everyone truly this little meat * Lono! was known by the sobriquets: Matilom and Panganlawon Second trame of Lady Mayantaw.236 / Philippine Folk Literature: ‘The Epics * Damana Eugenio 220 this bakatin pork; Ina short ime and secondly, with it he reached his destination the honey that was found 250 the mouth of Ayuman River by Mayaga Mayantaw. he was there al the junction of Sinimbulan. Thus distributed equally everyone getting a share He was amazed the many people he was wondering all the villagers, why there was so much shouting a thousand were thundering, So the great datu said the renowned leader asked: 230 what is in your mind, what is your sentiment? ‘The lady started to speak Paniguan said: listen. Matilom 260 lend your cars Panganlawon stretch your left hand take hold of this truly of this betel nut of gold have it sincerely this chew of gold; and secondly, with it this rice of gold this young rice of gold. More to Banlak to give your wife truly to give her share your wife Mungan, Banlak answered: Lam not to give her anymore Lam not providing for her my wile Mungan: 270 Now you can go Matilom go now Panganlawon to the renowned big datu the truly great leader. 240 Matilom said: The Sun-Endowed-One spoke: Lam the one to give to your wife Banlakon.° What you are going to tell him what you are going to inform him golden is now my feeling fully well are all my senses. So he started ‘Tayandang the Sun-Endowed-One Hurrying truly Matilom Tag*udanan.’ So Matilom lett Panganlawon departed 280 Tn a moment * Although it is no longer the practice (0 add the morpheme “on” to personal names to indicate special endowments, this can be inferred frum Pangantawan and Banlakon, ‘This morpheme js presently used 0 indicate people or languages as in ianon, Kuarnanon, Tinananon, ew. ” Another name for Lona!Agyu: The Tlianon Epic of Mindanao / 237 it did not take long truly Lam going back he reached to Yaga Pinaniguan he was there for she is already gold in the house of the big datu her sentiments golden." in the house of the renowned leader. It was the great datu’s turn Matilom got up the ladder said the renowned leader: Panganlawon went up the house 320 you are a fool Banlakon squatted crossing his legs for why are you now going back sat before the great datu. to your wile to Mangayaga Mayantaw 290 Facing him seated why live with her in front of the renowned leader with Yaga Pinaniguan? Matilom now started narrating Panganlawon recounting. So said the great datu spoke the renowned leader: Listen great datu inasmuch as she is recovered hear well, renowned leader inasmuch as she is now well For Lam going ta tell you the story Yaga has turned to gold Tam going to give you an account. 330 Buy’anon is now gold let us go back to Ayuman Matilom now started to speak Let us hasten to Sinimbulan. Panganlawon said: 300. ‘The Lady is now well it is said I. was Matilom’s turn to speak Paniguan it is narrated about. Panganlawon said: let us distribute indeed The wife of the great Banlak the rice of gold her body has turned to gold the young rice of gold.” her frame is now gold to all the people for truly she has given let us truly share the betel nut of gold 340. the betel nut of gold the chew of gold the young rice of gold. and with it the rice of gold In effect these were truly given 310 the young rice of gold. Iruly distributed to all who could not be counted Banlak began to speak: so a thousand people became gold Truly | am returning the countless people turned to lo Mangayaga Mayantaw gold. ® Mungan by this description has attained everlasting life. ° The miraculous rice and betel nut would also tum the bodies of those wha partook of ihem into gold, that is to say, give them everlasting life.238 / Philippine Folk Literature: The Epics « 350 360 370 380 Part UT ‘The datu started to speak the great leader said; let us go back to our country Jet us hasten to our land to Ayuman land (0 Sinimbulan country. So ina moment ina short time truly they started on their way with the great leader inuly they hastened their pace truly they were gone, So ina moment ina short time they reached they were there al the mouth of Ayuman River at the junction of Sinimbulan, They were exceedingly surprised struck with awe for nowhere was to be seen the wife of Banlakon for what they saw was only the house of gold a structure of gold. The datu began to speak the great leader said: listen my thousands of people keep still all of you my plan is to go on for truly turned into gold truly gold Mangayaga Mayantaw Yaga Pinaniguan Jet us float down the sea sail by the coast. 390) 100 410 Damiana Engenio Thus that is my feeling thus my words are spoken we shall go away we shall roam far, So they departed truly they left (en days on the way nine nights gone they reached they arrived at the mouth of Tigyandang junction of Mudan’nudan. ‘The big datu spoke the great leader said: start constructing houses begin building truly we are founding this place truly we shall make this our country the mouth of Tigyandang junction of Mudan‘udan. Ina moment in a short time thereafier enemies came to slay all the people to butcher all of them. ‘The big datu said, the great leader spoke; all of you men go down all of you men leap to the battleground to the battlefield, So all the men dressed up attired themselves now completely dressed up attired420 they jumped to the yard to the ground to give battle. Like a big bird swooping on the battleground they jerked their arms they performed a dance ten times they went around nine Limes they wentin a circle on the ground of Dayandayanan then they proceeded to meet the enemies then they trudged on to the seashore 430. towards the Bay of Linayagon. ‘They come upon the enemies they meet them in battle one is amazed struck with awe a great number died thousands slain. By the time the sun had reached the zenith by noon of those that remained they ould be counted 440. of the men who fought only a few survived all the men having been slain. Phe youngest son of the big datu said," the boy of the great leader spoke: warriors go back to the houses return to your places I shall be the one to meet them | shall be the one to face them in the battlefield ‘0-That is, the youngest son of Agyu. Agyu: The Lianon Epic of Mindanao / 239 450 T shall be the one to face all of them in the battlegrounds. ‘The young son dressed up the boy attiring himself how having finished dressing up attiring himself’ a decoy leaping on the yard to fight a big bird swooping lipon the earth to give battle. Shaking his spear the young son he performed a dance ten times he went around the land of Tigyandang nine times he circled the junction. of Mudan’udan. Now starting on the way he continued on towards the sea to the shore to the edge of the sea. Coming upon the enemies the big datu’s boy threw himself smack on the warriors you will wonder of the great number slain of the thousands that fell in two days. On the fourth day the enemies were silenced decimated numerous people thousands of warriors240 / Philippine Folk Literature: The Epics 490, 500 310 piled like mountains you could see mountains of dead you could view, ‘The boy began to speak the young son said: see my headdress look at my headgear it will be hard for you to wipe my couniry of Matig’ayun Nayandang impossible for you to slaughter my people at the junction of Mudan‘udan, The big datu returned spoke the great leader: T shall go back to my country go back to Yumantang Tam thinking of visiting another land going to another place T would like you to be with me bear me company. ‘The boy answered, replied Tanagyaw: you are shamed big dain you did not wipe out my people of Matig’ayun Nayandang; you are disgraced great leader you did not slaughter my people at the junction of Mudan‘udan So the datu returned he went home the great leader to Yumantang na Sakyapan country of Dalamanan, nother name of Agyu Another name of Agyu © Symbolic name of maiden * Damiana Eugenia 3520 530 540 He reached his place now that he was in the house there the boy was ‘Tanagyaw of Dal'angon' he sees him in the house Dumalanggay’s boy.!” The big datu spoke the great leader said: listen my wife hear me my partner call our young maiden our young Buy’anon.'* So she stood up raised herself up to unlock the maiden’s room she opened the maiden’s door turned the key to the door of Buy’anon. The datu’s wife spoke his lady said: dress up Buy’anon put on your best clothes Paniguan then come out there sit on the Ainubing floor show yourself well on the Ainuyaing floor. She dressed up nicely Buy’anon dressed up well Paniguan ten times clothed dressed was Buy’anon nine times was she wrapped with clothes Paniguan,550 360) 570 Phe big datu spoke the great leader said: forget your shyness put aside your shame sit near the boy close to Tanagyaw give him chew offer him betel take him for a husband Buy’anon asa life partner Paniguan ihe son of Dal*angon Tanagyaw of Dumalanggay. ‘These words are for you, daughter T shall advise you, Buy’anon there is no-other young man nor is there another man who can surpass him there is no other man that would be peer to Gambawan. Buy’anon spoke Paniguan said: sit crossing your legs siton my thighs with leglets you squat on my thighs to serve as your sitting place my limbs to serve you seat. Agyu: The Llianon Epic of Mindanao / 241 590 600 Part TV So after finishing the story completing his narration he departed in deep thought he went away Tanagyaw the son of Dal'angon Dagwat the son of Dumalanggay. ‘Ven days was he gone nine days had passed 610 Dagwat the boy began to speak Tanagyaw said: you are foolish Buy‘anon you are crazy Paniguan; the only things I know what T am aware of you gave me betel offered me chew, So Buy’anon answered Paniguan replied: I gave you betel T gave you chew to be truly spoused to you to be truly married to you. So Dagwat answered ‘Tanagyaw replied: 1 did not come here to look for a life partner in search of a wife Tanagyaw my name is just for a hoy Dagwat is still young as for my feeling lam going to a far place proceed to another land itis customary for young people to travel habitual for them to roam around. he arrived soon he reached Yumantang na Baklayon the country of Baintasan, You will be amazed you will wonder why there were many people shouting242 / Philippine Folk Literature: The Epics * Damiana Eugenio 620 630 640 wile countless men shouting as Dagwat was going up the house as Tanagyaw went up the ladder. He squatted on the floor with crossed legs on the kinubing floor he sat sitting himself squarely on the kinuyaing floor, The datu started to speak said the great leader: you listen Dagwat lend your ears Tanagyaw. May Lask from where you came? May T inquire from where you have been? From where did you start your journey? So Dagwat answered Tanagyaw replied: Istarted from ‘Tig'ayun na Tigyangdang!* The big datu took his turn to speak 670 there is a good sun today you are welcome home you have arrived indeed truly welcome today for my country is in trouble enemies are coming Warriors are arriving, Now Dagwat answered, ‘Lanagyaw replied: itis not to your advantage for Thaye no power datu ' Place in Nalandangan. Thave no strength Tam still too young Dagwat is still a boy, ‘The datu started to speak the great leader said: tell our daughter to come out ‘Tanagyaw ta Nayaga Dagwat ta Nabuy’anon. She came out Mayaga Mayantaw Yaya Pinaniguan in order that she may give betel to 'Tanagyaw just arrived to offer chew to the newly come reaching our country, She stuod up the datu’s wife raised herself up the better half of the great leader then opening the lock of the door of gold turning the key to the room of gold walled ten times the room of the maiden nine times thickened the door of Paniguan, Bai spoke!® Bu'ay’ayan said: you dress up very well Buy’anon adorn yourself Paniguan then come out to the kinubing floor show up "The wife of a big datu is called Bai; when the datu has several wives, it is usually the first who is called Bai.on the kinnyaing floor sit down with Dagwat close to Tanagyaw offer him betel give him chew. She came out Mayaga Mayaniaw she stepped out 590 Yaga Paniguan she sat down close to Dinagwat she sat like a great lady Buy’anon close (o 'Tanagyaw, Said the maiden, spoke Paniguan; we shall give each other betel offer each other chew, 700 Dagwat answered 710 said ‘Tanagyaw: you are a fool Buy’anon for all that I know you give (6 relatives that is what [ understand to cousins it has no other meaning: to offer the betel to give the chew, Itwas Yaga’s turn to speak Pinaniguan said; your heart is gold gold are your sentiments let us truly get married truly be life partners for you are the hero ‘Tanagyaw the son of Dal’angon you are the renowned one Dagwat the son of Dumalanggay you will be the one to decide " Leglets provided with small bells. Agyu: The Ilianon Epic of Mindanao / 243 720) the one to act as savior for my country will be wiped out the people are going to be slaughtered this very day this very moment it is going to happen. Dagwat spoke spoke Tanagyaw even if itis beyond my power to do it though unable to make it Ishall put on the dangkaling'” the tikos leglets which ring, So he immediately jumped like a decoy into the yard designed for fighting like an eagle sweeping into the ground for battling, Dinagwat danced shaking his spear in the yard designed for fighting Tanagyaw dariced on on the ground for duelling stanced like a hero the son of Dal’angon the representation of a strong man Dagwat the son of Dumalanggay. Up to the legletline the earth was plowed the soil was upturned ten times he went around in the yard designed for fighting nine times he made the encireling movements 750 in the yard for duelling.244 / Philippine Folk Literature: ‘The Epics * Damiana Eugenio Then he started towards the The young man spoke, enemies the manly son said: headlong he continued on do not be boastful following the seashore 790 you have not yet met me the edge of the sea the son of the great datu there was the proof of the do not talk braggingly encounter you have not met me yet in the evidence of the fighting combat you will be amazed the son of the great leader. you will wonder numerous people were slain He strode back and forth 760 thousands were felled continued on for sometime by midday then he stood before Dinagwat by noontime close to Tanagyaw, a mountain heap you can see hillocks stared you on the face You can see him meeting the other piled up the dead 800 see them clash together on one another like felled logs. as if you could hear the roar of thunder Dagwat now spoke the clashing of the knobs of their Tanagyaw said: shields this day is golden parting at a small counterpoint 770 golden is this day ten times they went around because you truly met me in the yard designed for fighting Tanagyaw the son of Dal’angon nine times they circled golden is this day the battleground. verily you came on a good day Dagwat the son of Dumalanggay, ‘You will be surprised you will wonder The datu began talking 810 how blood spurted the great leader said: ‘Tanagyaw the son of the big datu you are shamed for this failure his blood left him. you are dishonored he jumped limping 780 there was no gain to the edge of the yard coming as we did from a far place he staggered attacking from a distant land in the yard for fighting. someone braced himself and stood up Dagwat began to speak: the son of the great datu hail to the country moving aboul preparing people of Yumantang rejoice the son of the great leader. 820. lor look the young man is slain850 840 850 Bagsili’” like a decoy bird sprawled on the earth in the yard for dueling a lifeless eagle in the yard for fighting, So the thousands shouted a cry of victory the countless people hailed. The big datu spoke the great leader said: T cannot conquer T cannot subdue itis impossible to beat these people difficult to wipe them out by the people of Baklayon by the country of Baintasan, So Dagwat answered, replied Tanagyaw: you return great datu go back big chieftain you are shamed great datu you are dishonored great leader for you were unable to beat the people of this land you have not wiped them out the people of Yumantang na Baklayon go back to your place datu that is your place great leader. Dagwat went up the ladder tredged up 'Tanagyaw he sat down crossing his legs on the kinubing floor he squatted squarely on the kinuyaing floor: "Name of young man Agyu: 860. 870 880 ‘The lianon Epic of Mindanao / 245 ‘The maiden started to speak said Buy’anon: let us get married Dinagwat let us be life partners Tanagyaw; uly you helped us the whole country was saved verily you were a great help to my country Yurnantang. Dagwat replied, answered Tanagyaw: even if we do not get married get matched as life partners T shall help you truly all the people; I shall come truly to your assistance your country of Yumantang. I shall go home now to my land to my own country. Ina short time in a moment Dagwat started for home ‘Tanagyaw arriving there with the maiden accompanying him Mayaga Mayantaw she went along Yaga Pinaniguan. Tt took them ten days nine days of sun when they reached when they arrived at the mouth of Tigyandang River al the junction of Mudan’udan.246 / He sat on the floor with crossed legs the son of Dal’angon he squatted snugly Dagwat the son of Dumalanggay 890 facing his father in front of his mother. ‘The datu began to speak the great leader said: where did you come from your ladyship Mayantaw from what place do you come Yaga Pinaniguan? The maiden answered replied Buy*anon: 900 1 came from Baklayon 910) that is the place where Leame from the country of Baintasan. The datu spoke, the great leader said: why did you accompany my son ‘Tanagyaw my young man Dagwat my son? ‘The maiden answered, Pinaniguan replied: Tam marrying Dagwat be a life partner to Tanagyaw. The datu answered the great leader replied: you are going to marry my Dagwat Mayaga Mayantaw? Be a lifetime partner to Tanagyaw Yaga Pinaniguan? "In the tradition, Agyu had 100 wives. Philippine Folk Literature: The Epics * Damiana Eugenio you can gain nothing coming to my country there ean be no profit coming to my land your inner self to be tied up your feelings to be matched. Dagwat started to speak ‘Tanagyaw said: Tam notagreeable I shall not conform many are my brothers who are overage thousands are my relatives fully grown men. The maiden replied Pinaniguan said: though you have hundreds more of brothers average! even if multiplied more your male relatives the only one I shall marry you own person Tanagyaw the only man J shall be spoused to is yourself Tanagyaw: For you were the one who helped my country of Baklayon you were the one who saved my country of Baintasan. Her ladyship Mayantaw offered the chew to Tangyaw son of Dal’angon she gave betel chew to Dagwat son of Dumalanggay:960 980 Dagwat spoke Tanagyaw said: this is a golden day a sunny day of gold we are truly married we are truly spoused. So Dagwat was married to Mayaga Mayantaw was spoused to Tanagyaw Yaga Pinaniguan. The datu spoke the great leader said: assemble here by the thousands by the hundreds come all of you listen Thave something to tell you. ‘Vhousands assembled hundreds in numbers in the household of the big datu in the dwelling of the great leader, the big datu started to speak the great leader said: make preparations all of you do not be afraid Thave no fears the enemies are coming itis not false news warriors are arriving, It was the turn of Yugang to speak" said Layunlayun: if this is going to happen today enemies are coming warriors are invading "Identified as a counselor of the dati Agyu: The Hianon Epic of Mindanao / 247 990. 1000 1010 Tam getting out of this place now truly I shall move away old man as Tam Thavye no more strength T have no more power. Lt was his wife’s turn to speak his wife said: you are foolish Yugung you are crazy Layunlayur you have no shame you have no sense Tam not going with you Tam not gomg along to any place you intend to go. Whatever happens here in this place of Tigyandang occur what may at the junction of Mudan’udan for T have no fear Lam not Cowardice. Tt did not take a long time in a short time the enemies arrived have come in numbers lo attack the country to kill the people of Tigyandang. The sign that they have come the proof that they have arrived for in eight bays of the sea the enemies were grouped spread out in numbers were camped by the thousands unnumbered you could see but stark darkness night you were calling to.248 / Philippine Folk Literature: The Epics * Damiana Eugenio 1020 1030 1040 1050 The datu said the great leader spoke: dress up men prepare all of you young men go to the yard jump to the ground young men attire yourselves dress up all the men, After dressing themselves up attiring themselves like decoys they descended to the ground like eagles swooping in the battleyard in the battleground, The men shook their spears the younger men dancing ten times they went around the village of Tigyandang nine times they circled the junction of Mudam’udan, Then they marched on towards the coast proceeded in companies to the edge of the sea. The sign that they have come upon the enemies that they have come in contact with them the shields were getting enmeshed getting crossed many being slain thousands falling upon the sun reaching the zenith the sun reaching the highest very lew remained vapiman is Agyu's country of the sons of Dal’angon they could be counted those that stood on their feet. Yagongon spoke, said Layunlayun; there is no doubt the country will be wiped out all the people will be killed at this time at this instance. It was Dagwat’s turn to speak "Tanagyaw said: Tanagyaw the son of Dal’angon Dagwat the son of Dumalanggay: you are foolish Pigyugung you are crazy Layunlayun how can you foretell the people of Yandang will be wiped out why can you be certain Gapunan will be wiped out?’ Lam not yet dead in the battlefield Tam not convulsing in the field of conflict. ‘The sign that he was getting mad Tanagyaw the son of Dal’angon that he was ired Dagwat the son of Dumalanggay was the fact the Dagwat was dressing up attiring himself ‘Tanagyaw ten times thick his garments nine times layered Dinagwat’s jackets and trousers Tanagyaw’s attire.Agyu: The Hianon Epic of Mindanao / 249 Next he took hold of his shield you will be amazed named Dalidayan Dalaynon you will wonder then he picked up many men died 1090. his spear of famba’wjan wood thousands fell which cannot be broken when the sun reached the zenith with a handle that perspires when if was noon which cannot be splintered you could see mountains of the shaft being dewed dead people so that it could not be broken piled up the slain rendering it unbreakable. hillocks of dead you could see 1130 heaped were the slain. Now fully attired after dressing himself up Dagwat now spoke a decoy he was jumping Tanagyaw said: 1100. onto the yard for fighting look at my headdress an eagle swooping down raise your head and view my onto the yard for duelling headgear the sign that he had strength for that reason you cannot kill the symbol that he had power my people up to the leglet-line the country stands up to the bangkalingan leglets it will be hard to overrun it he sunk into the earth the land of Gapunan his feet buried into the ground, for you have met truly 1140 you have truly encountered Dagwat now tried his spear Tanagyaw the son of Dal’angon shaking it Dagwat the son of Dumalanggay. }110 ‘Tanagyaw now danced ten times he went around The datu now spoke wending himself around the great leader said: Nayandang”! as for myself what has come to nine times he circled mind the junction of Mudan’udan Ithink Tam returning home "Then he proceeded lam going back to Yumantang towards the shore there was no gain coming here headed towards the enemies 1150 bringing over young men from a at the edge of the sail-laden sea far place you can see that he had come transporting the men upon the enemies who haye no power 1120. the sign that he had contacted them "Another ame of Nalandangan.250 / Philippine Folk Literature: The Epics * Damiana Eugenia 1160 1180 who have no strength to conquer. In my heart I feel you can come with me for a while return (o my country come along for a time let us go to Yumantang, Twas now Dagwat’s turn to speak Tanagyaw said: you are disgraced big datu you are shamed great leader you were unable to wipe out the land of Gapunan you have not overrun Matig’ayun na Yandang. The datu answered replied the great leader: where is my own Dagwat? where is my Tanagyaw? who is now a young man you must be ashamed you have been disgraced, That he heard Tanagyaw of the great dat that he understood the meaning the son of the great leader immediately stood up he was on his feel very fast took hold firmly holding it stoutly the bar of gold the stick made of gold he paced back and forth then he closed on the Dinagwan?! proceeding on to Tanagyaw. Agyu’s son, 4 Goddess of death. “The god of death. 1190 1200 1210 1220 That he has truly met he has indeed encountered his objective is the fact that he has raised his Jefi hand then his right. The young man spoke the man said: you will have a taste of this of this golden bar you will lick it yet this bar made of gold. Ten times he swung it nine times he beat him with it felled senseless unconscious he laid he must now be dreaming being hit with the stick he must be dreaming hard stung by the golden bar. ‘The young man now spoke the man said: make your way to heaven your pathway to the sky the trail to Gumamba"* the trail io Dumaganal.?* ‘Tampad was senseless he had no consciousness maybe he is now dreaming being beaten with a bar he must be dreaming hard stung by the golden bar. Dagwat now spoke Tanagyaw said:1230 1240 be careful now Tshall give it back to you hard return to you what you have done, He immediately stood up Tanagyaw the son of Dal’angon was on his feet very fast Dagwat the son of Dumalanggay. He took hold first of the golden cane in his hands the stick the golden Tanigid® ten times he swung it whipping it nine times at him whipping it nine times into a pounded mass the son of the big datu becoming dust the son of the great leader a decoy fallen headlong allifeless eagle sprawled in the yard designed for fighting in the battleground. Dagwat spoke said Tanagyaw: hail now people of Yandang people of Gapunan yell the cry of victory he is now in deep sleep Bagsali’ now like a lying in a heap there he is Miglayapi’ 2* ame of the cane. * Another name of Bagsali Agyu: The Tlianon Epic of Mindanao / 251 1250 1260 1270 1279 The great datu spoke the great leader said: now that everything is ended T have reasons to go home lying on the earth lifeless is my Tanagyaw ‘Tanagyaw my young son Dagwat my young man T shall return to my land shall go back to my country the land of Nagsakyapan in the country of Dalamanan. So the datu departed the great leader left. Dal’angon spoke said Dumalanggay:* now that everything is ended now the end of the road is known the enemies are slaughtered the invaders completely obliter- ated you can go and live there in the country called Sunglawon you lived there and settle in the land of Bayatukan.”" So Dagwat left with the great lady Bai there he went Tanagyaw with his charming companion the Puali *” of Sunglawon the great lady of Bayatukan, * These are the names by which Agyu could be mentioned in the epic, for itis taboo todo “ Another name of Sunglawon. © The wile of a great warrior or leader eventually becomes a Puladi’, an honored lady.