Exploring Pre-Colonial Burial Rituals in Panay
In the 14th and 15th centuries, pre-colonial Filipinos practiced secondary burials, a fascinating ritual in which the bones of the deceased were carefully cleaned and placed in hardwood coffins. Archaeological discoveries in caves across Western Visayas reveal that elaborate rites often preceded these burials. The presence of deformed skulls in many coffins suggests that cranial modification may have played a role in these practices.
One remarkable find was a burial containing a skeleton adorned with gold eye and nose ornaments, declared a National Cultural Treasure. Called the Oton Gold Death Mask is now displayed at National Museum Western Visayas right beside Museo Iloilo. Alongside the burial, 15th-century Chinese, Siamese, and Annamese porcelain were unearthed, highlighting the region’s thriving trade connections during that era.
Also in the town of Oton, other burials revealed a wealth of artifacts, including trade ceramics, locally made pottery, iron tools, beads, and semi-precious stones. Additional discoveries included glass and shell bracelets, earthen net weights, spindle whorls, and teeth decorated with gold pegs—symbols of status and wealth. These finds provide a window into the vibrant cultural and trade networks of pre-colonial Panay.