Peoples and Traditions/ Contents

Bisaya society and traditions

Joseph Blandoi and Antonio Kahti Galis

The peoples known as Bisaya can be found in the Philippines, Brunei and Malaysia, where they live in Sabah and the northern part of Sarawak. Traditionally swidden agriculturalists, increasing contact with the outside world has led to an expansion into trade, as well as changes in their religious beliefs and living arrangements. The Bisaya are best known for their music and buffalo races, and efforts are being made to retain and promote these and other cultural traditions.

  • Information in the full article includes
  • Demography
  • Kinship
  • Traditional power structures
  • From subsistence farmers to businessmen
  • Beliefs
  • Handicrafts
sp42