The Matigsalug and me

I found a long lost memory card and I was happy to discover these pictures. They are the photos of my stint with the Tribal Missions Foundation International in 2007, and they represent the three trips to the mountains, including a 2-day white-water rafting trip on the Davao River from its source in Bukidnon.

The Matigsalug are a Manobo tribe of Bukidnon and Davao, Philippines. They live along the mountain rivers. TMFI is a non-government organization that works to uplift the living of the Matigsalug while bringing the gospel to them. Here's a poem I wrote for them.

A Mission to the Tribes

The trail is steep and slippery

My spine aches under the heavy pack.

It may be noon the sun is scorching

or raining and my feet can’t stay on track.

Sometimes we’re rafting on a river

That changes mood on every bend and turn.

Sometimes I wonder why I’m out here

When I could be some place where I can earn.

Tribesmen I meet shyly stare at me

Their red-stained teeth shining through.

The bare-foot, pot-bellied little children

Signify that I still have a lot to do.

These people live on the rugged mountain slopes

Or some safe distance from the raging water.

Their unhealthy bodies thrive on scanty meals

Their minds on fears that to us don’t matter.

I’m here today on a special mission

With some guys who were here before.

They have given up some comforts of this life

And are working for the uplift of the poor.

There is Pio the bitter-half of Sonia

Now don’t ask why I spelled it that way.

Bheng, Gaga, Lilet, Neng and Denden

All virgins until their dying day.

Next come Chris, Jeanette and baby Sophia

A family God made in love for the tribes.

Junjun, Tata, Jack and Rogie

Are some of my more macho vibes.

Belle, Lorie, Mimi and Manilyn

Are some office-bound personnel,

Agaw Cherai and daughter Allanie

Have their own life story to tell.

Betchie, Menchie and buddy Myong

Like myself have volunteered for the cause.

To Tribal Mission Foundation International Inc.

I give thanks and offer my warm applause.