Singkil
This dance takes its name from the bells worn on the ankles of the Muslim princess. Perhaps one of the oldest of timely Filipino dances, the Singkil recounts the epic legend of the "Darangan" of the Maranao people of Mindanao. This epic, written sometime in the l4th century, tells the fateful story of Princess Gandingan, who was caught in the middle of a forest during an earthquake caused by the Diwatas, or fairies of the forest. The crisscrossed bamboo poles represent the trees that were falling which she gracefully avoids. Her slave loyally accompanies her throughout her ordeal. Finally, she is saved by the prince. Dancers skillfully manipulate a pair of fans which represent the winds that prove to be auspicious. Royal princesses to this day in the Sulu Archipelago are required to learn this most difficult and noble dance.