Byais facts for kids

Byais (pronounced bee-YAH-is) is a special traditional drink from the Philippines. It's a type of wine made by the Mansaka people. They live in a beautiful area called Davao de Oro. Byais is a unique part of their culture and traditions.

What is Byais?

Byais is a traditional Filipino wine. It's sometimes spelled bya-is, biya-is, or biyais. This drink is important to the Mansaka people. It's often enjoyed during special events and gatherings.

How is Byais Made?

Making Byais is a careful process. It starts with a plant called lengkuas. This plant is also known as galangal. In the Mansaka language, it's called pal'la, palla, panla, or pangla.

The lengkuas is boiled first. Then, it's mixed with either honey or sugarcane juice. This mixture is then put into special earthen jars. These jars are called tadyaw by the Mansaka people. The jars are sealed very tightly.

The mixture then goes through a process called fermentation. This is when tiny living things, like yeast, change the sugars in the mixture into alcohol. This process gives Byais its unique flavor.

What Does Byais Taste Like?

Byais has a very distinct taste. It's often described as having a sharp flavor. Some people say it reminds them of citrus fruits. Others think it tastes a bit like pine needles. It's a flavor you won't forget!

Who are the Mansaka People?

The Mansaka are an indigenous group in the Philippines. They live mainly in the province of Davao de Oro. Their culture is rich with traditions, stories, and unique customs. Byais is one of the many special things that are part of their heritage. It shows their connection to the land and their traditional ways of life.