Knowledge on HABAK
By
Andrew John B. Fernandez
M.A. Anthropology
University of San Carlos
Rationale
Research Problem
The goal of this ongoing study is to look
into the escrimador perspectives on
engaging in practice of filipino martial arts
in connection with the habak knowledge
that would give them extra strength or a
strength beyond their limits.
or
healing
Methodology
This follows the purposive study of
participant observations and in-depth
interviews with the filipino martial artist
that possess the habak.
It investigates how the techniques are
learned and acquired by the FMA and
shared to the new generations.
terminologies
Anting-anting is the tagalog term for filipino
warrior name for amulet, talisman, or
charm. However, in Cebu, they called
Habak it covers all types of antinganting, amulet, talisman, or charm.
It was called habak means to tie around
your waist, wrist, and neck.
terminologies
The habak is a charm or amulet made
from stone. The habak may be of any
form or designs. It can be a medallion, a
small book, a piece of paper, a tattoo, or
a vest or scarf inscribed with oraciones.
terminologies
Oracion are prayers, usually in Latin, that
when chanted, spoken, or mentally
recited, serve to protect or strengthen.
They may protect one from certain ill fate
while traveling in unknown territory, or
add strength or additional power to the
habak
Juego Todo fight to the death
beliefs
What are their beliefs system to habak?
all of the eskrimadors believed that the
habak will make them stronger.
they will not be hit by a bullet or sword or
any item that will harm their body.
It they will be hit, it will not hurt them.
They will not be wounded or if wounded,
it will just heal immediately.
The bullet will just slide which they
locally term it taliwas.
INJURIES
The injuries that they will be able to heal
generally:
Pop up elbow
Broken finger
Groin enlargement
Tooth extraction
Head cut
Bruises
Poison
Illness because of barang or kulam
Self medication
techniques
The athletes, except for broken bones, will
just take a time off of 2 to 5 days for their
recovery of injuries and they dont usually
go to the doctor for regular check ups.
The fighters will just take or still use
traditional medicinal leaves such as
Gabon or Gemilina.