Custom banga making exhibited

People from all walks of life witnessed the geba or the traditional making of clay pots in barangay Bila, Bauko, Mountain Province.
The process entailed arranging the stones where fresh pots were laid.
To test the durability of the stones, the potters burned dried grasses and pine needles on top of the stones.
The potters arrange the clay pots on top of the pre-tested stones. Dried pine needles and twigs and grasses were placed on top of the clay pots, until fully covered.
Small holes were made around the base of the covered pots. Simultaneous burning was done through the small holes. The synchronized burning is needed so that the cooking of the clay pots will be done at the same time.
While some of the pot makers continuously turn the unburned materials, the others prepared the glazing material. Said varnish material was processed from sap of almaciga tree.
The pots were glazed after the pots were taken from the burning area. To test the pots of any leaks, the pots were filled with water and left them overnight.
Elders said the diwin di banga was the major economic industry of the people of Bila in the past. These were brought to other places to be bartered with sugar, salt, and other basic needs in the household.
They recounted that Kabunyan appreciated the artistic and perfect made clay pots of Bila potters hence, he bequeathed the best clay to them, which is found in Kebasan, which is located between baragays Bila and Otucan Norte. – Francis B. Degay