Danny, thanks for the better pictures of the hilt. They do show an intentional covering of the brass (?) punto and braided wire wrapping with resin or pitch of some sort. This was usually done to prevent shiny pieces reflecting light and revealing the owner's position or presence to an adversary. Both indigenous and non-indigenous folks have used this simple method, especially in mainland SE Asia. The Dayak also use resin on the hilts of some of their swords (parang ihlang, etc.). The use of resin on the hilt of barung is not a practice of the Moro people AFAIK.
I would leave it "as is." It tells a story and if you can identify more of its history all the better. Just my personal opinion.
Ian
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