The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has launched a new book titled “Bahandi: The Surigao Treasure and Related Finds”at its head office in Manila. The publication shines a spotlight on extraordinary pre-colonial gold artifacts, revealing the rich cultural heritage and advanced civilization of early Filipinos long before the arrival of Spanish colonizers.
The book draws its title from the local dialect word bahandi, which translates to wealth, prized possessions, or symbols of prestige. By emphasizing this indigenous term, the volume weaves linguistic heritage together with physical history, showing how ancient cultural identity is embedded directly in the local language.
Featured in the publication are remarkable pieces preserved by the central bank and the Ayala Museum, including finely crafted jewelry, ritual objects, and prestige items. These treasures were accidentally uncovered in 1981 during an irrigation project excavation in Surigao. Among the standouts are a long gold chain fashioned from interlocking kamagi necklaces and a massive four-kilogram ceremonial sash known as an upavita, both demonstrating the incredible artistry and technical skill of early Filipino goldsmiths.
Central bank officials emphasized that these historical finds reflect thriving trade networks, prosperity, and sophisticated craftsmanship dating back more than a thousand years. BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. noted that the book celebrates both the historical treasure itself and the people who preserved it over time. Deputy Governor Bernadette Romulo-Puyat added that these artifacts serve as powerful reminders of what Filipinos have always been capable of achieving, expressing hope that the book inspires younger generations to appreciate their cultural roots.
Authored by art historian Dr. Florida H. Capistrano-Baker, the book includes essays by Dr. Ligaya Lacsina and Tenten C. Mina, along with a foreword by former Central Bank Governor Jaime C. Laya. The publication connects the Surigao artifacts to related historical discoveries in the neighboring Butuan and Agusan regions.
The launch event was attended by key central bank leaders, museum representatives, and historians. The BSP announced that “Bahandi: The Surigao Treasure and Related Finds” will be made available to the public online and through the BSP Online Store at a later date.
