One of the most important in a community or town was the “babaylan.” The babaylan was a traditional healer and an adviser to their leader. The babaylan was in charge of the community in the absence of the Datu. In our local dialect, they were called “manuhilot.” Another popular term is “Soriano,” from cirujano, Spanish for “surgeon.”
While known as female shamans or priestesses second to or even equal with Datus, did you know that some babaylans were not born female? Some were born male, while some possess diverse sex characteristics (intersex). This potentially showcases the acknowledgement by our ancestors of individuals who transcended imposed gender roles, embodying a holistic approach in including the full spectrum of human identity (@atingnayon).
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