Ayub Cave, South Cotabato

Ayub Cave is a Miocene limestone formation in Maitum, South Cotabato]. Metal-Age anthropomorphic secondary burial jars were excavated in the cave by researchers from the National Museum between 1991 and 1992, after they were shown photographs of artifacts collected by locals.

The lids of the clay jars, dated to the period from 500 BC to 500 AD, feature representations of human heads and characterized by cord-marks, incisions and impressions. Glass beads and bracelets, earthenware beads, and shell ornaments were also recovered in the site. The jars are seen as evidence that Ayub Cave, also known Pinol Cave, was a necropolis during the said prehistoric period.

A total of 29 burial jars were excavated from the site, along with 4 cubic meters of other archaeological materials. Although no jar intact features the female form, broken pieces showing female breasts were found, suggesting equality in burial practices in the area.

Reference

Dizon, E. (1996). Faces from Maitum: The archaeological excavation of Ayub Cave. Manila: National Museum of the Philippines. pp. xi–xii, 51–53, 56–59, 73, 78–82.

Citation

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