ketit

Ketit refers to a specific cultural practice primarily found in some communities within the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao. It is a form of ritualistic oral tradition and storytelling that often involves the recitation of epic poems or historical accounts. These recitations are typically performed by skilled individuals known as "ketit" or by a community elder.

The practice of ketit serves to preserve cultural heritage, transmit ancestral knowledge, and reinforce social cohesion. The narratives often recount the origins of a community, the deeds of heroes, and important moral lessons. The performance is usually accompanied by traditional music or chanting, adding to its ceremonial nature. In many instances, ketit is performed during significant events such as festivals, weddings, or rites of passage. The language used in ketit is often a specific dialect or ancestral tongue, further emphasizing its role in cultural preservation. While the practice has faced challenges due to modernization and the decline of certain dialects, efforts are ongoing in some regions to document and revitalize ketit as a valuable part of Filipino intangible cultural heritage.