Mini museum on talibong collection eyed as new tourism attraction

KALIBO, Aklan- A talibong (machete) collection housed in a mini museum here is being eyed as a potential tourism destination, promoting awareness of the rich culture and history of the province.

In an interview, Emmanuel Soviet Dela Cruz, former provincial board member of the eastern district, said that his mini museum housed around 80 collections of talibong. Some of them were a collection of his father.

The mini museum was housed inside Lolo Maning’s Farm at Barangay Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan. It is housed in an environmentally friendly ambiance as it uses solar panels as a means of electricity.

“Several travel operators have already approached us, encouraging us to open the mini museum to the public as another tourist attraction. We are still finalizing some details based on the recommendations made by the travel operators,” Dela Cruz said.

According to local historians, the talibongs were used as a prime weapon by farmers against the Spaniards in the 18th century. There is an old Akeanon saying that ‘ginalagnat ang talibong kung indi kalabo’ (the Talibong could have a fever if it could not strike a target). “The saying has been passed down through various generations. In reality, those who are using the talibong are farmers who will eventually defend themselves whenever they are threatened,” he said.

Also included in the collections were the actual talibongs who participated in and won the annual Talibong Festival contest, which culminates every April as part of Aklan’s Foundation Day celebration.

“We want to raise people’s awareness of the role of Talibong in our history. Talibong crafting these days is a rare craft. It usually takes a month for a single talibong to be produced,” he added.

Also, one of the distinct characteristics of talibong is some copper and silver coins embroidered in the sheath.

“Aklanon folklore tells us that several Aklanons, especially in the hinterland areas, have a superstitious belief that they believe copper or silver coins are shields against super naturals,” said Dela Cruz.