M1088: Sagayan Postcard

The postcard shows the Philippine war dance Sagayan, performed by the Far Eastern University Dance Troupe. Sagayan is a Philippine war dance performed by both the Maguindanao and Maranao. The term Sagayan comes from the Tausug word of sagay, meaning head-hunter. The war dance depicts in dramatic fashion the steps their hero, Prince Bantugan, took upon wearing his armaments, the war he fought in and his subsequent victory afterwards. On most occasions, this dance is performed before any celebration or gathering to drive away evil spirits (tunong) and to welcome good fortunes or omen.

M1088: Sagayan Postcard

The back of the postcard reads:

A dance of royalty, Sagayan portrays a Maranaw warrior who anticipating combat, displays his valor and prowess in the handling of the kampilan (bladed weapon) and the shield before the ladies of the court.

The dance involves leaping, turning, jumping, kicking and the rolling movements of a warrior ready to defend his master in battle. Performers, depicting fierce warriors would carry elaborately painted shield with curlicues, rounds, twirls and mirrors which are attached with shell noisemakers in one hand. In their other hand, they carry a double-bladed sword (kampilan) of metal or wood. Dancers are dressed in three tiered skirts, brightly colored topper and headgear embellished with all the imaginable colors of twine trimmings formed into flowers, balls, sunbursts etc. Long, yellow playful tassels almost hiding the face surround the headgear.

SOURCES:
Sagayan Wikipedia Entry
Dance 3: Sagayan and other warrior-like dances
Likha Pilipino Folk Ensemble