Other information:
The faded ink inscription reads:
July 1901, Tubigon Bohol
Since the island of Bohol (next to Cebu) does not have this kind of sword, this confirms this piece as being Cebuano. Toward the end of the Philippine-American War, some Filipino forces traveled from Cebu to Bohol, going up into the forested hills and were called "Bolo Men" by the American forces who later landed there are well. The Americans with their howitzers and guns never removed the Bolo Men. When word came of Aguinaldo's capture and surrender, the Bolo Men came down and surrendered to the American forces. This is one of those pieces.
On another note, I found out that there was a special training in how to wield this type of heavy weapon. It would take wide swings as far as I am concerned, but that's all I know so far.
I have seen some practitioners wielding modern lighter talibon versions, but this by far is heavier.
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