Some good questions.
Yes dates had different types of kris, barong, etc. for ceremonial use, everyday use, and for battle use. Datu pieces would still be ornate, but the amount would depend on the usage type.
Those not datus but of higher rank or great warriors were allowed to have some ornamentation.
So is this a datu fighting class barong - not sure, but could be, or at least be in the next lower category.
Barong types also depend on the tribe and island origin.
Add to that, in the past I understand that barong blades get a little smaller the further in time one goes back.
Yes we are still learning. The problem is at least 2 fold:
- 1. Most of the elders who had the old knowledge are now dead.
- 2. For folks trying to go back there in these regions to do more research, they are now prohibited due to the escalation of danger and violence there. I actually know of a gentleman who was asked years ago by his Sulu body guards not to come back since they could no longer guarantee his safety.