Discovering the Cultural Symbolism and Beliefs Associated with Betel Nut (Areca Catechu) Among Manobo Tribes

This study aimed to discover the cultural symbolism and beliefs associated with betel nut (Areca catechu) among Manobo tribes. Through qualitative research methods, a semi-structured interview questionnaire validated by content experts in the field was administered to the four Manobo participants, composed of the Datu, two (2) Bae, and an Indigenous People Mandatory Representative (IPMR) from Quezon, Bukidnon. The study uncovered the deep-rooted connections between betel nut chewing and spiritual practices within the tribe. The findings highlighted the role of betel nut consumption as a means of establishing sacred connections with ancestral spirits, deities, and the natural world, bridging the physical and metaphysical realms in the Manobo cosmology. Ritualistic preparation and sharing of betel nuts were accompanied by prayers, invocations, and offerings, reflecting the tribe's belief in the interplay between the material and spiritual worlds. The study emphasized the significance of the betel nut as a vehicle for spiritual and divine connection, fostering a sense of reverence, gratitude, and interconnectedness with sacred forces. The research underscored the importance of preserving cultural heritage and ancestral traditions, shedding light on the cultural significance of betel nut chewing among indigenous communities like the Manobo tribe.