Beauty and money in mud

By Marlyn T. De Jesus

TALK about mud and people’s initial and immediate reaction is one of disgust.

I would, for example, ask: “Do you like to hold or experience playing in a muddy place?”

The reply that comes as fast as a lighting is usually a resounding “NO!”

It’s because when we think of mud, we simply think it is dirt.

But mud is an important part of human history, a valuable material that has built old civilizations with castles and fortresses. In the African continent, traditional houses are made from mud, essentially the equivalent of our bahay kubo. Here in Asia, the Great Wall of China is partly made of bricks. And right here in the Philippines, many colonial houses, churches and other structures dating back to the Spanish era use bricks.

Now here in Sta. Barbara, the old tradition of making bricks from mud is alive and well and remains an important part of the town’s economy and architectural heritage.

Sta. Barbara prides in calling itself  “brick town”.

The main political and religious buildings in town – the municipal hall and the parish church – stand as showcases of the beauty of brick structure.

The beautifully landscaped public plaza is also laden with bricks.

How are bricks made from mud?

First, an animal, usually a carabao, is used to help in digging the mud. In the Pangasinań language, this joined activity between man and beast of mixing and softening the soil in a circular motion within a particular spot is called petek.

Next step is shaping the mud according to the desired size and purpose.

Then it is cooked in a huge oven until it comes out firm and with a glimmering reddish color.

Bricks are a cheaper alternative to other construction materials and they are sturdy and work well in the tropical weather.

The local government of Sta. Barbara under Mayor Reynaldo Velasco has taken initiatives to help develop and promote the town’s brick industry.

So now next time you think about mud, think beauty, think money, think bricks.

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