THE CULTURE AND CUSTOM OF THE RUNGUS ETHNIC THE CUSTOM OF THE PREPARATIONS OF PLANTING PADDY SEEDLINGS

INTRODUCTION

The Rungus ethnic is a traditional farming community with an agricultural activity called mutagad om mongumo (farming or gardening), beginning in July and ending in April the following year. The felling of trees starts in August, is left to dry till September, and burnt in October. Corn and vegetables are also grown during the month.

THE PREPARATIONS FOR PLANTING PADDY SEEDLINGS

This ethnic believes that the custom of mangatod (sending) must be done. The farm owner and a number of people send the supply of rice flour and fermented rice to the planting area, which these items are then consumed later. The farm owner needs to prepare rice wrapped in leaves to be left in the paddy planting area for the bambarazon (the spirit of paddy).

Bambarazon is appeased in the house on a large scale with a vital ceremony called mamapak involving animals especially pigs as sacrifices. Gongs are beaten while the bobolizan (mantras reciter) ascends the steps of a special hut for this occasion, scatters rice, and recites prayers. The sacrificed animal is slaughtered with its meat given to the village folks.