Paper short abstract:

The interpretation of archaeological artifacts, features, and faunal remains recovered during excavations in Palawan, Philippines in the 1960's was greatly enhanced by the assistance of four local tribal crew members - Palawan and Tagbanwa.

Paper long abstract:

In the late sixties the author conducted excavations in Quezon Municipality, Palawan, Philippines. Among the permanent crew were 2 Palawan and 2 Tagbanwa, 3 of whom were born in the late 20's or early 30's, and all of whom possessed great familiarity with the local environment and the knowledge and technological skill necessary to extract from it the resources necessary to sustainable survival. WWII had also forced them live fro 3 years without access to the coast and their swidden fields. This knowledge enabled them to interpret artifacts, features, and faunal remains ranging in age from 500 to more than 20,000 years old. Their subsistence activities also illuminated those of their distant ancestors near the beginnings of agriculture. Their association was invaluable and enriching for the author.