The Flat sticks: the flat sticks are made out of rare Philippine wood called Gijo (gi-ho'). Gijo is one of the most favorite woods used by the boatmen who make their fishing and traveling boats. The shiny appearance of the wood is not coated with wax, but rather it is a part of the woods natural characteristics. It has natural occurring wax that could repel water that's why it is chosen by most wood carver who live near the sea. Wooden furniture such as chairs, tables, etc., made of other types of wood that are exposed to elements such as the sun, the rain and the salty air will crack in time but the Gijo does not. Gijo wood, even today, is sometimes found buried in the ground or in the ocean and brought up and used for making boats and furniture. There is no other wood like this as you can see!

As for it's strength, Gijo out matches the strength of both Kamagong and Molave. Plus, Kamagong can crack upon impact and Molave does not have the waxy finish, though Molave wood is still make for a very good weapon. These are the advantages of Gijo over the other the other iron woods in the Philippines.

One more point here; you will not be able to get Gijo wood anywhere else. One must be very well connected in the Philippines just to get it shipped out of the country. This is a VERY rare wood to find indeed!

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