Well I went back the next day, and someone had purchased the knife unfortunately. So I suppose this thread is a dead end anyways.
My main questions about the knife, however, were trying to identify it's likely origins a bit more specifically ... where in the Philippines, perhaps what time frame to look at, etc. The very basic nature of the hilt and sheath seemed tricky to me ... the ones I studied were more ornate, complex, etc.
I'd still love to hear any thoughts of anyone with knowledge ... but if I get no responses, no worries
Thanks !