The National Museum of the Philippines Tabon Cave Complex gathered elders, cultural bearers and students on February 21 for “Panaw it Sengkadan,” a cultural event highlighting Tagbanua traditions as part of National Arts Month 2026.
Held at the museum’s exhibition hall, the activity drew 65 participants and was organized in partnership with Adalan it Sengkadan it Kaadatan Inaborlan and the Municipality of Aborlan.
In a statement, the museum said the event brought together elders and youth “for a vibrant celebration of Tagbanua heritage, honoring the living traditions preserved and passed on to the younger generation.”
The program featured indigenous songs and chants, including Uyman, Baukay and Anendaken Sekenan, as well as traditional dances such as Tarindak, Tugatak, Sagayan, Soriano, Sarungkay and Bakesbakesan. Cultural masters also played traditional instruments, including the gimbal, babandil and agung.
Participants were later guided through the Tabon Cave Complex to deepen their understanding of Palawan’s natural and cultural heritage and its role in the country’s archaeological narrative in Southeast Asia.
The museum described the event as “an inspiring tribute to creativity, identity, and cultural continuity in celebration of the National Arts Month.”
