Mansaka in Philippines

Introduction / History

The Mansaka are a subgroup of the Mandaya. Mansaka means “people of the clearings.” They live on Mindanao, a Muslim island in the southern Philippines.

The Mansaka people have intermarried with other ethnic groups through the centuries. From 3000-500BC they intermarried with Indonesian settlers and the Malays between 300-200BC. The Chinese came in the 1400s, so there was even more intermarriage.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Mansaka are famous for their tie-dye cloth, silver products and bead work. They also do metal work.

They make their living through slash-and-burn agriculture, growing bananas, rice and root vegetables for their food. They also fish and hunt to make sure they have enough meat. The Mansaka grow cash crops such as coffee and hemp. Their livelihood is in jeopardy because logging and mining companies are taking their land.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though they have a Christian presence, the Mansaka are mainly animistic. Their society has a religious role known as a baylan, who is usually female. The baylan is both a healer and a priestess. They gain that role by being called by the spirits. The baylan has a special relationship with the supreme god, Magbabaya.

What Are Their Needs?

Through their long history the Mansaka people have been displaced many times. They have not had adequate education or medical care. Their culture continues to erode.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to draw the Mansaka people into the blessings of belonging to Jesus Christ.

Pray for Mansaka disciples to make more disciples.

Pray for the Lord to bless them with an abundant harvest, demonstrating his goodness and power.

Text Source:   Joshua Project