KALIBO, AKLAN-- Local artists in the province are planning to hold a Talibong Festival in order to preserve the century-old tradition of sword-making.

Councilor Soviet Dela Cruz, a "talibong" collector, said several artists in the province are worried that the tradition on sword-making would eventually be lost if no one would move to preserve the heritage.

"Talibong," which means sharpness of sword have been dominant once in the towns of Madalag, Libacao and Malinao. Currently, sword-making is only done when somebody orders it to which it is being sold from P1,500 each or higher. In the old times, only royal families are being seen to possess a talibong," said Dela Cruz.

His collection of talibongs are being displayed at the Kalibo Museum.

Currently, Dela Cruz' fellow artists are studying whether to hold the 'Talibong Festival' either during the Ati-atihan or the anniversary of Aklan every April 25.

"Part of the possible events during the festival are showcase of talibong collections, sword play using the talibong, and artistic craftsmanship (modern and traditional)," Dela Cruz said.

Among the prominent history in the use of 'Talibong' is where a group of men from Banga and Libacao were able to defeat the Japanese forces in a camp in Banga using only the traditional sabers.

"The glorious days of talibong production in the province were replaced by the cheap tin swords of the Chinese. Some of their designs were believed to also have been influenced by Indian traditions. Horns of water buffaloes or carabaos were sometimes being used as a handle of the talibong," he added.*PNA