Babendil

The babendil is a single, shallow, rimmed gong made of bronze or brass. It is an integral part of kulintang ensembles of various indigenous groups in the Philippines, particularly among the Maguindanao, Maranao, Tausug, and other groups in Mindanao and Sulu.

The babendil is typically used as a time-keeping instrument and also provides a drone or rhythmic ostinato. It is often described as the "timekeeper" or "rhythm keeper" of the ensemble. Unlike the kulintang gongs which are knobbed and produce distinct melodic pitches, the babendil is bossless (without a central knob) and creates a metallic, ringing sound with relatively indefinite pitch.

The instrument is usually suspended and struck on the rim with a padded stick. Variations in playing technique and the metal composition can affect the timbre of the sound produced. The babendil is highly valued and is often made with intricate designs. Its presence is crucial for the proper performance of kulintang music.