In 1965, Dr. Robert B. Fox discovered a unique artifact in Leta-Leta Cave at Lagen Island, El Nido, Philippines. This artifact is an earthen jar that resembles a yawning man. This is the reason why archaeologists called it “The Yawning Jar.” The said treasure in now under the care of the Philippine National Museum.
Estimated to have existed in 265 BC, the ancient piece deserves the same respect and prestige enjoyed by the Manunggul Jar, who now sits as icon of Philippine archaeology. Unfortunately, the said artifact remained hidden inside the four corners of the museum for four decades.
However, recent discoveries at Ille Cave prompted El Nido Municipal Tourism Office to push the Yawning Jar to the forefront of the municipality’s tourism industry. Being the symbol of El Nido’s rich archaeological finds, the yawning art piece hopes to lure visitors to Leta-Leta Cave, Ille Rockshelter and Sibaltan Open Site.
The meaning behind that yawn is still a puzzle for the experts. There is a hypothesis that it was accidentally deformed and the potter decided to mold it into a yawning face. Still the yawn remained a mystery. Perhaps, it asks for a bountiful harvest. And, I hope it’s not a symbol of a sleepy ancient tribe. [Arvin L. Acosta, LGU]
talindak 
wow …salamat sa impormasyong ito….
salamat din sa pag-appreciate…
Arvin – This is a most fascinating information. Maybe we can ask the National Museum for a clay replica of the yawning jar, and we can display it in the Municipal Hall.
If you want, you can ask the Mayor to write a formal letter to the National Museum, and send me a copy and I can follow up with them.
Vince Perez
Sir Vince,
Thanks for offering your help. UP-ASP gave us already a replica. we are eying a vacant room in the PA Building for a temporary museum. Nido Petroleum also expressed support. I still have to discuss it to the mayor.
-Arvin
I Love El Nido… we still have a lot to show… the world needs to find out what we have in a tiny but fascinating town of El Nido… Tnx sa pagupload ng info na ito sa internet. Nice job kua Alvin… Looking forward in working you again… Mail me if you need some articles about Palawan or El Nido… is there a new edition of Talindak Newsletter? Pls send me a copy or i will just visit your office this sembreak… More power… God Bless…
yup my 3rd issue na. u can get copies of it from kuya roman de jesus. send ka rin articles para publish at upload d2.
nice idea.
hello po. Saan mo po nakuha ang info na “accidentally deformed”?
From an archaeologist. Opinion nya lang po.