Philippine Children's Book. Dual Language Book (Pilipino/English). Kata-kata is an example of oral literature in Tawi-tawi. It is a tale that is sung about fantastic journeys, the search for a spouse, the battle to protect one's land, and the adventures of a cultural hero. It is considered a sacred text by the Sama Dilaut, more commonly known as Badjao. Salbaiyani sang this excerpts of kata-kata in 1966, which was then translated into English by H. Arlo Nimmo. According to Talib Lim Sangogot, the gift to sing the kata-kata is bestowed by one's ancestors. Nimmo adds that the song has power to heal illnesses caused by evil spirits. Aside from being a vehicle for lessons and entertainment, portions of the kata-kata are sung during rituals. Only men are allowed to sing what is referred to as the djin and this can be last from 2 to 3 days of performance. - from Amzon