Sumilao 4.7

Sumilao is a fourth class municipality in the province of Bukidnon, Philippines. According to the, it has a population of people.EtymologyThe word “Sumilao” came from a Bukidnon phrase "Kon sumilaw da”, which means “When light comes again.”A story has been told that there lived a man named Walu who possessed supernatural powers. Many believed that he lives somewhere in Kilabong a place near Palaopao Hill. Time came when seven “baylan” (spiritual leaders who possessed special powers) who were living at the plain below fabricated degrading stories against Walu.This angered him. Standing on the hill, he shouted at the top of his voice and pointed to the seven men rebuking them for their evil intentions. At this instant, bright, glaring light emitted from the tip of the pointing finger and the seven “baylan” were blinded. It was said that their eyesight will be restored when the same light will come again.HistoryOral history from the town’s old-time residents stated that before the Spanish colonization, the present site of the Poblacion was already inhabited. Four big buildings housing several families were already constructed. These families were directly controlled by a settlement datu or chief. They have grouped together to protect themselves from the fierce “mangangayaw” or headhunters from the hills.When the Spaniards came, Datu Manlomero and Opecio, with their men, fought against the invading conquistadores. Unfortunately, the natives were defeated due to the inferiority of their weapons.So they laid down their arms and accepted the new ruler. They were baptized to the Christian religion. In 1860’s, the Recollect missionaries were already making visits to Sumilao.