A Consideration of Theories Concerning Possible Affiliations of Mindanao Cultures with Borneo, the Celebes, and Other Regions of the Philippines

The widespread similarities found in the southern Philippines & surrounding areas, thought of by many as the result of early inter-cultural contact afforded by the ease of travel on inland seas & other factors, are seen as the result of late rather than early influences. The persistance of unique traits among specific groups is thought to stem from their marginality. Traits which appear as similarities & which have been explained by many re 'early migrations' are considered as local developments in many instances, for they represent similar adjustments to such factors as types of land utilization, residence, ecology, as well as external pressures. C. L. Hunt.