RH 1: the babaylan

They channeled energy from nature, the stars, the trees, the spirits that moved through the wind and water. It was animistic, yes, but also intuitive and ancient. Babaylans used their gifts to heal sickness, protect the pregnant, and ward off disease.

Philippine indigenous communities recognize a woman (or man) as a Babaylan, someone who has the ability to mediate with the spirit world, has her own spirit guides, and is given gifts of healing, foretelling, and insight. She may also have knowledge of healing therapies such as hilot, arbularyo. She is a ritualist, a chanter, diviner. She has the g... See more