LIPANG KALABAW

*The front cover of the first issue of Lipang Kalabaw on July 27, 1907, courtesy of Unang Labas.
Entitled “Progresista Voters,” it shows how the Progresista Party (formerly Federalista Party that
advocated for Philippine statehood under the U.S.) changed stance when rural voters (seen in the back
row) tipped the vote for the party to support eventual Philippine independence. 
Interestingly, Lipang Kalabaw is the name of choice of the publication, based on the local counterpart of
poison ivy, lipang kalabaw–a plant which stings the skin upon contact. The magazine’s name, portrayed in
its masthead, is explained in full in its maiden edition:
“Taken internally, the plant [lipang kalabaw] is noted for antiseptic and sterilizing qualities; for
external use it is a stimulant and an antiseptic as well. It has, moreover, a practical and vulgar
application against rheumatism. In order to cure this malady one must strive to produce a rash.
Rheumatics are flagellated without compassion with lipang kalabaw leaves and the rheumatism
disappears as though by sorcery. This explains the symbol of our masthead. The ends we pursue can be
divined. We shall strive to make the most use of the beneficial effects of lipang kalabaw. We shall use
these as a stimulant for dormant energies for the good of the community. In cases of moral rheumatism,
it will be utilized with its rightful imitations certain that the rashes the flagellations raise will produce a
salutary reaction to the spirits. We do not count on gratitude of the patients.”
SOURCE: https://indiohistorian.tumblr.com/post/159257082266/ang-pikon-talo-satire-as-impulse-to-
freedom