This background study guide is based on a series of questions put forth in the January, 1984 outline (Literacy and Literature Use Department). The information for this survey has been gleaned after approximately two years residence by the author in the Manobo community of Sabayan, Ilomavis, Cotabato and periodic visits to Barangay Manobo (Tiko) and Ilian, Magpet, Cotabato from August, 1989 to March, 1991.