They are closely related to and often grouped with the Gorontalo , who are one of three major people groups located in northern Sulawesi. Formerly mountain dwellers, the Gorontalo now live in scattered villages on the plain or coastal strip of the northern peninsula of Sulawesi, between the Mongondow and the Tolitoli peoples. Yams and millet are secondary crops, and coconuts are grown commercially. Cattle are used for pulling items, but horses are used for carrying items and for riding. Nets, traps, and harpoons are used for fishing in the lakes.
Marriages follow the Muslim pattern and are usually arranged by a mediator.
Marriages to cousins are preferred. After marriage, the couple usually lives with the bride's mother until the first child is born. At that time, the couple establishes their own household. Each spouse owns property separately. Only property that is obtained after marriage is held jointly.