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AMBAHAN

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Asbury College Inc.

Poblacion Anda Pangasinan 2405


A. Y. 2023 - 2024
Group 1
BSed III Major in English
EL 113 SURVEY OF PHILIPPINE LITERATURE IN ENGLISH
BILLY CARANAY - INSTRUCTOR

TITTLE : AMBAHAN

INTRODUCTION

The Ambahan poem is a form of traditional Filipino poetry that originates from the
Mangyan people in the Philippines. Region 4-B, also known as MIMAROPA
(Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan), is home to various indigenous
groups, including the Mangyan. This report delves into the Ambahan poem within the
context of Philippine literature in English, focusing on its characteristics, cultural
significance, and representation in Region 4-B.

DISCUSSION

Ambahan is a traditional poetic form of the Mangyan people, an indigenous group


from the Philippines. It's primarily used by the Hanunuo Mangyan community and is
considered a significant cultural and literary expression. Ambahan typically consists
of seven-syllable lines, with rhythmic patterns and metaphors that convey deeper
meanings and insights about life, nature, and the Mangyan way of life. These poems
are often carved onto bamboo using a special script and are chanted or sung during
various occasions. Ambahan serves as a way to pass down cultural values, wisdom,
and stories from one generation to the next

Characteristics of Ambahan Poem:


1. Syllable Count
: Ambahan poems consist of seven syllables per line, with each stanza typically
containing six to eight lines.
2. Rhyme and Rhythm
: While Ambahan poems do not adhere strictly to rhyme and meter, they have a
melodic rhythm that stems from their traditional oral recitation.
3. Nature and Human Themes
: These poems often revolve around themes of nature, human experiences, and
emotions, capturing the connection between humans and their environment.
4. Concealed Messages :
Ambahan poems may carry hidden messages, serving as a way for the Mangyan
people to express their thoughts, feelings, and wisdom.
Cultural Significance:
1. Oral Tradition: The Ambahan poem is deeply embedded in the oral tradition of the
Mangyan people. It has been passed down through generations as a means of
preserving their cultural heritage.
2. Communication: Ambahan poems were historically used as a form of
communication, allowing Mangyan individuals to share insights, stories, and values
with each other.
3. Cultural Identity: These poems play a crucial role in defining the cultural identity
of the Mangyan people, highlighting their unique perspective on life and nature.
4. Expression of Emotions: Ambahan poems provide an outlet for emotional
expression, enabling individuals to convey their innermost feelings through artful
language.

Representation in Region 4-B:


1. Mangyan Communities: The Mangyan people of Mindoro, particularly the
Hanunuo and Buhid groups, are the primary bearers of the Ambahan tradition in
Region 4-B.
2. Cultural Preservation: Despite modern influences, some Mangyan communities still
engage in composing and reciting Ambahan poems, contributing to the preservation
of their cultural heritage.
3. Literary Revival: Efforts have been made to promote and revive the appreciation of
Ambahan poetry, both within indigenous communities and among a wider Filipino
audience.
4. Educational Initiatives: Ambahan poems are now sometimes incorporated into
educational programs and initiatives, helping to raise awareness about indigenous
literature and culture.

Certainly, here are a couple of examples of Ambahan poems:

Example 1:

Sa búhay ng tao
Sá halagang kayamanan
Dahil sa kasaysayan,
Wala nang tadhana.

(Translation:
In the life of a person,
As precious as wealth,
Because of history,
Destiny is no more.)

Example 2:

Ang ánghel na waláng katawán


Ang búhay ay paglaláwan;
Ang kalangitang hindi náráratnan,
Di mo makáyaring makuha kailan.
(Translation:
The angel without a body,
Life is a journey;
The unattainable heavens,
You cannot possess forever.)

Example 3:

Kagubatan sa bukirin,
Yaring bundok ay dakila't mataás;
Sa bundok na ito,
Pitóng pook ang napuntahan.

(Translation:
A forest in the field,
This mountain is great and high;
On this mountain,
Seven places were visited.)

These examples showcase the concise and evocative nature of Ambahan poems. They
touch upon themes such as life, destiny, nature, and the human experience, often
delivering profound insights within their limited syllabic structure. Keep in mind that
Ambahan poems may have different interpretations and layers of meaning, reflecting
the poetic and cultural richness of the Mangyan tradition.

Conclusion:
The Ambahan poem stands as a testament to the rich cultural diversity of the
Philippines, particularly within the indigenous communities of Region 4-B. As a
unique form of traditional poetry, Ambahan serves as a vehicle for expressing
emotions, preserving cultural identity, and communicating wisdom. Its revival and
integration into modern educational efforts highlight the importance of recognizing
and celebrating the indigenous literary heritage of the Philippines.

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