Philippine history : reassessed / Isidro Escare Abeto.

Datus Puti, Itum and Pula

In December, 1977, the author, on his historical ocular research, obtained informations from the people of Palawan that Datu Puti had two
brothers - Datu thumn and Datu Pula. Datu Puti, the eldest, was called "Puti"
because of his light complexion. The younger one was Datu "Itum" darkskinned, hence he was dubbed Itum or itim. Datu Pula, the youngest, like
Datu Puti was also light-complexioned. He became red after gulping down
a hungot (coco-container) of tuba, hence, he was nicknamed "Pula".
Datu Itum and Pula were then living separately with their wives from
their Brother Datu Puti in the City of Brunei. Later, they decided to leave
Brunei to find other places where they could live peacefully free from the
encroachments of Sultan Makatunaw. The two brothers, after staying for
sometime in Jolo, Sulu Archipelago, transferred to Palawan where they found
their permanent settlements. Soon, they emerged as men of powers amongst
the people therein. Datu Pula had a better fortune to have occupied a big area
which became his domain on the northern section of Palawan. It included the
big places then called Abu-abu, Pinitian, Labu, Isumba, etc. These places
later, during the Spanish Era became big barrios. On the other hand, Datu
Itum became the chieftain of another settlement of lesser area on the west
coast of Palawan.

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