Sagayan Festival (Maranao War Dance), 

Tubod, Philippines

Central to the Araw ng Lanao del Norte celebration is the ethnic dance Sagayan which is performed by 'warriors' clad in three-tiered skirts, brightly-coloured headgear and carrying elaborately painted shields and 'kampilan', a double-bladed sword. The dance involves leaping, turning, jumping, kicking and the rolling movements of a warrior ready to defend his master in battle. They move in a magic-like trance and it is believed that the motions drive away evil spirits while welcoming good fortune. Sagayan is complemented by women in colourful costumes dancing gracefully with a pronounced movement of their arms in a dance known locally as 'Kasiduratan', accompanied by the agong and kulintang musical instrument.