The Philippine Islands contain a patchwork of various people groups and religions. In fact, more than 150 ethnic groups inhabit the Philippines. This great diversity has been the cause of much conflict and bloodshed among the various ethnic groups. The T'boli have often been caught in the crossfire as various groups have battled each other. This involves cutting the forest growth, burning the debris, and planting in the clearing.
Rice is their primary crop, though yams and cassava are also grown.
Food is also provided through hunting, gathering forest produce, and fishing. To supplement their incomes, the T'boli sometimes sell bananas and other forest produce in nearby markets. Homes are generally about 50 feet long and nearly 30 feet wide. They are typically constructed of bamboo, wood, and palm fronds. The people do not live in towns or villages, but live apart from each other in their widely separated houses.