About This Dance
Kadal Taho is a harvest dance of the T'boli people of South Cotabato in Mindanao. The word "kadal" means dance in T'boli. The dance imitates the movements of the "taho" or monitor lizard, believed to be a spirit guardian of the harvest.
History & Origins
The dance is rooted in the animist traditions of the T'boli people. It is performed after the rice harvest as thanksgiving to the spirits of the land. The monitor lizard is venerated as a protector and the dance invokes its blessing.
Cultural Significance
Kadal Taho represents the deep spiritual connection between the T'boli people and the natural world. It is a living prayer and thanksgiving ritual that preserves indigenous animist traditions. The dance is central to T'boli cultural identity and is performed at communal gatherings.
Quick Facts
| Dance Name | Kadal Taho |
| Region | Davao Region |
| Island Group | Mindanao |
| Ethnic Group | T'boli |
| Video | Watch |