STT,
i'm not sure how confident you are in regards to removing the handle, but if you search this "Barong restoration suggestion...", it will give you a step by step process on how to work on it. i can't add the direct link on this here post due to my current location.
as far as removing the handle, it is fairly easy. i normally use a heat gun (rated at 750 deg) and would aim it blade, about three to four inches away from the handle. just make sure you don't aim it at one place, rather doing it a sweeping motion. what you're doing is heating the blade enough so it will soften the "gal-gal", a native tree resin used by the locals. you can then either push it in to set it, or remove it if you like. if you do pull it out and decide to work on it, i would suggest pitch as an adhesive to replace the native resin. hope this helps...
