REDISCOVER THE SANTIGUAR IN BICOL

 Santigwar: The Healing Tradition in Bicol

Santigwar, a traditional healing practice in Bicol, combines both diagnostic and therapeutic methods used by albularyos (traditional healers). The term originates from the Latin word “santificare” and the Spanish word “santiguar”, meaning to make the sign of the cross while praying. This ritual is deeply rooted in Bicolano culture, blending indigenous beliefs with influences from Catholicism introduced by the Spanish colonizers.

Diagnostic Techniques
In Santigwar, albularyos use three main methods to diagnose illnesses:

1. Wax and Water Method: A metal ladle with a lit candle is used to melt wax, which is then dripped into a bowl of water while an oracion (prayer) is recited. The shapes formed in the water reveal the cause of the illness, such as an aggrieved spirit (tawo), heart-related problems, or witchcraft (kulam).
2. Oil and Paper Method: A lit candle is used to burn a piece of paper over a bowl of oil, with the shapes formed in the oil providing insight into the illness.
3. Egg and Water Method: An egg is cracked into a transparent jar of water, and the shapes that appear are interpreted by the healer to diagnose the patient’s condition.

Therapeutic Procedures
Santigwar also serves as a therapeutic practice, where the albularyo may enter a state of divination or possession to communicate with or appease the spirits responsible for the illness. This involves rituals aimed at healing the patient through spiritual intervention.

Complementary Practices
Albularyos also use other diagnostic tools, such as plastic, paper, or leaves combined with oil, to identify affected body parts. If these items stick to a specific area, it indicates that the area requires treatment, usually through hilot (traditional massage).

Healing Methods
The albularyos’ healing methods combine spirituality, rituals, and ethnomedicine. Common therapeutic practices include:

1. Oracion (Prayer): Written prayers are applied to the affected area or burned and mixed with water for the patient to drink.
2. Hilot and Oil: Traditional massage with oil, often accompanied by whispered prayers.
3. Tulod (Offering): Ritual offerings to appease aggrieved spirits.
4. Ugbas (Betel Quid): A mixture of betel leaves, betel nut, tobacco, and crushed seashells applied to the affected area to treat illnesses caused by mystical elements.
5. Herbal Remedies: Albularyos also use a variety of herbs and traditional recipes to treat different ailments, reflecting the deep connection between Bicolano healing practices and nature.