Ang Kultural na Representasyon ng Bonga at Buyo sa Bukidnon Nanangen

The analysis of the cultural representation of Bukidnon nanangen (folktales or short narrative) is based on the exclusion of Filpino and Literature subjects in college and the negative effects of bonga and buyo (areca/betel nut and betel leaf) in health. This study employs descriptive-qualitative approach using selective sampling method and textual analysis to describe and present the significance of bonga and buyo in the historical and traditional accounts of the Bukidnon natives.The chosen nanangen shows that bonga and buyo helps to strengthen the body and gives courage to a warrior or group of warriors; it revives the dead and it is used as a way to the other world; it heals the sick; and it serves as protection from bad spirits and guide in their daily lives; it is also used in pamuhat (rituals) and wedding ceremonies; and it is a symbol of hospitality to guests or visitors. The initial investigation assumes the following: (1) this paper will motivate other scholars to produce a literary genre translated in Filipino (since the available nanangen materials are those which are translated in English), (2) this paper will provide information on the cultural importance of bonga and buyo, (3) this will also present the side effects of bonga and buya thus promoting awareness on its use to the tribes in Bukidnon and the rest of the ethnic groups in the Philippines, (4) and most importantly, this study will encourage understanding and respect on the different cultures.

Keywords: Bukidnon Nanangen, betel nut, betel leaf, cultural representation