Federico Caballero, a revered Manlilikha ng Bayan and master epic chanter, was given a state funeral at Calinog Plaza in Iloilo on Tuesday morning. He was honored for his life’s work in preserving the Panay-Bukidnon oral traditions.
Among those who delivered messages were President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., Senator Loren Legarda, Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr., and Calinog Mayor Francisco Calvo, who paid tribute to Caballero’s enduring legacy.
Before the funeral, traditional Daray and Haya ceremonies were held, gathering Panay Bukidnon community members to mourn the cultural icon. The rituals included the preparation of “Pangasi,” a local rice wine used in the ceremonies.
Known fondly as “Nong Pedring,” Caballero passed away on August 17, 2024, at the age of 88. He was awarded the Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan in 2000, the highest state recognition for Filipino folk artists, equivalent to the Order of National Artists.
This accolade was given in recognition of his exceptional work in preserving the Panay-Bukidnon oral tradition. Caballero was also known as a manughusay, or arbiter of conflicts, playing a key role in resolving local disputes and maintaining the social fabric of his community.
Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to the practice, preservation, and documentation of his community’s oral literature, particularly the “Sugidanon,” a collection of 10 epic narratives told in complex and archaic poetic language.
His collaboration with scholars, artists, and cultural advocates safeguarded these ancient traditions. His writings and contributions are immortalized in the “Sugidanon” book series, published by the University of the Philippines, which documents the rich oral traditions he worked tirelessly to preserve.
Caballero’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire future generations to honor and protect their cultural heritage.
