27/06/2025
𝐊𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞: 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐇𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲, 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐧 💚
The Kagan people, also known by various spellings such as Kalagan, Kaagan, or Caragan (as referred to by the Spanish) - are a proud indigenous subgroup of the larger Mandaya-Mansaka ethnolinguistic family. They speak the Kalagan language and are traditionally divided into three distinct subgroups often recognized as separate tribes: the Tagakaulo, the Kagan, and the Kal’lao of Samal.
These communities are primarily located in the provinces of Davao del Sur, Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte (including Samal Island), Davao Oriental, and parts of North Cotabato.
The term "Kagan" is derived from the native word “kaag,” which means to inform, secure, or keep in secrecy. Historically, this word reflected the tribe’s role in maintaining communication and awareness among their own people and with neighboring tribes like the Mandaya and Mansaka—especially crucial as the Kalagan traditionally lived near river mouths and coastal areas of Davao, serving as gateways of information.
The Kalagans are self-sufficient agriculturalists, cultivating wet rice in the lowlands and dry rice or corn in upland fields. Their way of life is deeply rooted in sustainability and community cooperation.
Cultural expression among the Kalagans is vibrant and colorful. They are skilled artisans in weaving, basketry, and decorative crafts. Their traditional attire is marked by bright clothing, intricate beadwork, and ornamental accessories, especially worn during festivals and celebrations.
Music and dance play a vital role in cultural gatherings. During special occasions, Kalagans perform graceful traditional dances accompanied by the lively rhythm of gongs and percussion instruments, embodying both storytelling and spiritual symbolism.
In terms of social structure, kinship and lineage are more important than social rank. High-status families often keep detailed genealogies to assert noble ancestry. Marriage within related families is favored, strengthening family ties and communal unity.
The Kagan Tribe stands as a testament to resilience, cultural pride, and deep ancestral wisdom—a living heritage that continues to thrive amidst modern changes while honoring its rich past.
𝗣𝗵𝗼𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁: Via Google
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁: Ritchelmie Albacite Cuibillas via Facebook