Floodplains and marshes of Agusan: Preliminary Overview of the Talacogon, Agusan del Sur Archaeological Excavation and Survey

This paper highlights the archaeological study conducted in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur and the subsequent surveys done in the area. In Barangay Desamparados, Talacogon, three excavation sites were studied close to each other but in considerably different landscapes. Sitio Bataran is found to contain a remarkable micro lithic assemblage, which may potentially be older archaeology than previously known from the province. The excavated assemblage reflects at least three recent generations of land-use. The assemblage itself is varied and likely reflects the dynamic landscape of the area based on the long-term flooding characteristic of the Agusan marsh. The results show that there is potential to study the Agusan marsh for older archaeology, but must be done quickly due to rampant pot-hunting and increasing impact of climate change in the Agusan marsh.