DAVAO has 11 distinct tribal groups, each one unique and rich in cultural heritage. One of these is the Bagobo Klata, an indigenous tribe settled in the highlands of Tamayong (or Tomayong as they prefer), in Calinan District.
These elaborately dressed ethnic group is known for their artistry, craftsmanship and skills as brave warriors. The IP (indigenous peoples) were once overseers of Davao’s young, vast land. Now their ancestral domain has undergone changes through the years. Somehow, they are able to sustain an evolution of agricultural livelihood through old systems and practices, which they are trying to preserve while keeping up with the modern times.
The Bagobo Klata community decided to help operate a restaurant which showcases an authentic sensory experience of food, culture and music. Tribu Klata Takkanna is an initiative spearheaded by Lemuel Betil, a tribal elder and brother of Bagobo Klata Tribal Chieftain Marcelino Betil, and in collaboration with his wife Joy, family and the whole village. Joy’s sister Jenny Loyola, along with Camille Cinchez and Preslyn Ramos are also investors.
Tribu means “tribe” which is the Bagobo Klata, and Takkanna in their dialect is an eatery. They hope that this enterprise will help provide a means of income as well as reintroduce the rich but fading culture of the Tribu Klata. Betil laments that because the younger generation are sent off to pursue higher education and ambitions, the old practices are slowly being forgotten and not passed on.
Tribu Klata Takkanna aims to preserve its heritage by offering food prepared and cooked from local ingredients in the farm.
For P400 per person, get a taste of the following authentic cuisine: Lullut (native chicken or shrimp cooked in coconut milk inside a bamboo), Pinit (shrimp soup with corn and vegetables), Ludong (gabi in coconut milk), Puto Balanghoy with choice of hot native coffee or tableya (chocolate) drink, including rice and fruits in season.
Experience such true culinary delights, and discover music through children performing the tribal dance and kulintang performances. Beadworks and ethnic accessories are available at the souvenir shop as the women are also known for their weaving expertise.
It is an hour’s commute from downtown Davao City to the restaurant. If riding in a public vehicle, catch a van from Bankerohan and get off at the Calinan public market, in front of Generic Pharmacy or Mercury Drug. A tricycle terminal will have rides bound for Tamayong where you can drop off at Purok 1. After the barangay arc is a signage of Tribu Klata Takkanna. It formally opened October of 2019 with Rev. Ruben Sayugan as the officiating pastor and attended by the tribal chieftain and elders, the whole community and guests.
Advance reservation is recommended for preparation (at least one day before visit) through their Facebook page (www.facebook.com/tribuklata), email tribuklata@gmail.com or thru contact numbers 0917 536 8549.