BIBLIOGRAPHY BANAKEN, RONALYN TUBLAN....
BIBLIOGRAPHY
BANAKEN, RONALYN TUBLAN. APRIL 2011. Journalists and the Indigenous
Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-Based Newspaper Journalists in
Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities of Benguet. Benguet State University, La
Trinidad, Benguet
Adviser: Filmore Y. Awas, MDevCom
ABSTRACT
The study sought to document the practices and challenges of Baguio-based
newspaper journalists in covering IP-related issues in the communities of Benguet.
The study was conducted from December 2010 to February 2011.
The IP-related issues covered by the respondents have something to do with the
IPs’ culture.
There were noted differences between covering issues in mainstream
communities from and that of IP communities.
Generally, a specialized type of skill is necessary for effective gathering and
writing of IP-related information.
Baguio-based newspaper journalists who cover IP-related issues in Benguet are
sometimes challenged by issues on the province’s topography, IPs’ distrust on the media,
language barrier, cultural barrier and the growing gap between the IPs and the
government.
Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations were drawn:
Others researchers may want to focus on the possible solutions to the challenges
identified by the respondents; other researchers may want to undertake the broadcast
aspect of the study; other researchers may want to undertake the study in a broader
locale; and findings of the study should be written in monograph to be shared with
community development workers and the IPs themselves.
ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Bibliography..………………….……………………………………............
i
Abstract………………………………………………………………………
i
Table of Contents……………………………………………………………
iv
INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………...
1
Rationale……………………………………………………………..
1
Statement of the Problem…………………………………………….
2
Objectives of the Study…………………….………………………...
2
Importance of the Study…………………….………………………..
3
Scope and Limitation of the Study…………………………………… 4
REVIEW OF LITERATURE………………………………………………...
5
Gathering and Writing Information
from IP Communities……………………………………….………..
5
Practices of Media Practitioners in Gathering and
Writing Information from IP Communities….……...………......……
5
Media Practitioners’ Challenges in Gathering and
Writing Information from IP Communities………....………..……… 6
Definition of Terms………………………………….…………....…. 9
METHODOLOGY……………………………………………………….......
11
Locale and Time of the Study…………………………….……...…. 11
Respondents of the Study……………………………………………
13
Data Collection………………………………………………………
13
Data Gathered………………………………………………………..
13
Data Analysis………………………………………………………...
14
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION…………………...………………………... 15
Respondents’ Profile…………………………………………………
15
IP-Related Issues Covered by the Respondents
in Benguet……………………………………………………………
16
Respondents’ Practices in Gathering Information
from the Communities of Benguet…………………………………..
19
Respondents’ Practices in Writing IP-
Related Information from the
Communities of Benguet ……………………………………..…….
25
Respondents’ Challenges in Gathering and Writing
Information from the Communities of Benguet…….…………….....
31
SUMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS………….….. 36
Summary………………………………………………………...…..
36
Conclusions………………………………………………………….
37
Recommendations…………………………….……………………...
37
LITERATURE CITED…………………………………….…………………
39
APPENDIX
A. Research Instrument for the Respondents……………………….
41
B. Letter for the Interview…………………………………………. 43
C. Application for Manuscript Defense…………………………….
44
1
INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Indigenous peoples (IPs) heavily value their wealthy customs and traditions. They
put so much emphasis on the sacredness of their unique rituals. This is so because of their
worldview that is centered on nature. Nature for them is life and this is what constitutes
the very foundation of their culture.
In the Cordillera, most of the IP communities retained their old ways of life.
However, in this fast-paced modern world, conformity to such traditionalism serves as a
challenge for them. And from this perspective, the fact that they maintain their traditions
often leads to them being misunderstood by the mainstream Filipino.
In part, the media play a role for such landscape. For example, since they tend to
focus on the elements of crisis, conflict and tragedy, some of their stories and reports are
put in exaggerations with unsubstantial basis. At times, the mainstream media perceive
the rituals and practices of IPs as “unusual” or “uncommon,” hence, the stories are angled
with the element of oddity. In this scenario, the IPs are either misunderstood,
misrepresented or underrepresented.
In this light, this study seeks to curb the problem on the IPs being misinterpreted
and misunderstood especially by the mainstream communities by documenting the
practices and challenges of Baguio-based print journalists in covering IP-related issues
particularly in Benguet. Having knowledge on such practices and challenges provides a
lucid picture of what IPs are, of what their beliefs relate to, of what their culture is all
about. Similarly, a clearer comprehension and understanding of the Cordilleran culture
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
2
can dissolve the barrier of misconception between the mainstream Filipino and the
indigenous person, therefore championing unity toward development.
The result of the study could be used as a reference and guide, particularly by
journalists, in promoting fairness, equality and human rights as a whole.
Statement of the Problem
The study generally aimed to document the practices and challenges of Baguio-
based newspaper journalists in covering IP-related issues in the communities of Benguet.
Specifically, it sought to answer the following questions:
1.
What is the profile of the respondents?
2.
What IP-related issues were covered by the respondents in Benguet?
3.
What practices do the respondents apply in gathering IP-related
information from the communities of Benguet?
4.
What practices do the respondents apply in writing IP-related information
from these indigenous communities?
5.
What are the respondents’ challenges in gathering and writing IP-related
information from the communities of Benguet?
Objectives of the Study
The study intended to:
1.
determine the profile of the respondents;
2.
identify the IP-related issues covered by the respondents in Benguet;
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
3
3.
identify the practices applied by the respondents in gathering IP-related
information from the communities of Benguet;
4.
identify the practices applied by the respondents in writing IP-related
information from these indigenous communities; and
5.
identify the respondents’ challenges in gathering and writing IP-related
information from the communities of Benguet.
Importance of the Study
Knowing and understanding the practices and challenges in covering issues in
indigenous communities hugely impacts the interpretation of the information gathered
and more importantly the portrayal of the IPs.
The result of the study can serve as a guide in understanding the indigenous
peoples – in educating the public on their beliefs, customs and practices. This may
narrow down the gulf of misconception and tension between the mainstream Filipino and
the indigenous person, therefore, fortifying harmony and unity which essentially escalates
development. The Philippine Clearing House Mechanism for Biodiversity (2009) noted
that such documentation can help facilitate preparation of management plans and support
policy formulation and legislation.
Moreover, the study could be a reference and guide for journalists – beginners and
experienced alike – specifically those working in indigenous communities, as well as
students who want to pursue indigenous peoples-related journalism.
For researchers, the study can serve as a springboard for further related studies.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
4
Scope and Limitation of the Study
The study focused on the practices employed by selected Baguio-based
newspaper journalists in gathering and writing IP-related information from the
communities of Benguet. The challenges they encountered in covering IP-related issues
were also covered, including the IP-related issues that they covered.
The study limited IP-related issues in Benguet communities.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
5
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Gathering and Writing Information
from IP Communities
The Australia’s Royal Commission Into Aboriginal Deaths Custody proposed the
development of codes of practice and policies relating to the presentation of indigenous
issues, the establishment of monitoring bodies and putting into place training and
employment programs for indigenous peoples (Mindframe National Media Initiative,
2011).
Mindframe National Media Initiative (2011) pointed out that although there are
no specific codes and protocol on the reporting of issues in indigenous communities,
media organizations have developed codes of practice that relate to the coverage of
indigenous issues. Journalists should refer to their relevant codes and guidelines for
further information.
In addition, the media should consider both principles and protocol for sensitive
reporting on indigenous issues.
Practices of Media Practitioners in Gathering and
Writing Information from IP Communities
In particular, the Mindframe National Media Initiative (2011) emphasized the
following points for effective gathering and reporting of information from IP
communities:
“Program
makers
and
journalists should always be aware of and challenge
their own prejudices, stereotyped beliefs and perceptions about indigenous
people.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
6
There is no one kind of indigenous person or community. Indigenous
communities…have their own distinct history, politics, culture and linguistic
experience.
Programs and stories should be done in consultation with indigenous
people, being particularly sensitive to the experience of those who are subjects of
the program or story.
In many… indigenous communities, the depiction…of a person who has
passed away can cause great distress to people, as can showing their image
through visual media. Even using the same name as the deceased person, or a
similar sound, can cause distress for a period of time.
A story…can be improved by canvassing members of the appropriate
indigenous community on their perceptions, rather than solely seeking the
opinions of outside experts.”
In addition, De Vera (2007) stressed that those who gather information from IP
communities should not be ill-equipped, poorly trained and lacking field experience or
appropriate cultural sensitivity to handle land conflicts and issues of resource access
affecting indigenous communities.
Most importantly, it takes the whole nation to help the indigenous communities –
the government, the public, the media, as well as indigenous people themselves (Yu,
2005).
Media Practitioners’ Challenges in Gathering and
Writing Information from IP Communities
Representations of indigenous people in the mainstream media are important, as
they have the potential to define indigenous people to non-indigenous people. They
provide a framework about what to think about indigenous people and subsequently
influence attitudes towards them. The historical context of representations of indigenous
people is central to how they are understood today. With such, the coverage of
indigenous issues by journalists involving inferential racism is significant (Scott, 2006).
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
7
A code of conduct can, in the real world, be difficult to uphold consistently.
Journalists who believe they are being fair or objective may give biased accounts—by
reporting selectively, trusting too much to anecdote or giving a partial explanation of
actions. Even in routine reporting, bias can creep into a story through a reporter’s choice
of facts to summarize, or through failure to check enough sources, hear and report
dissenting voices, or seek fresh perspectives (Anonymous, 2010).
Kevin R. Kemper, an assistant professor at the University of Arizona School of
Journalism and an authority on indigenous peoples who studies issues of tribal journalism
and press rights, examined newspaper articles by tribal journalists that discussed views
about freedom of expression to see whether they practice rhetorical sovereignty, which he
defines as the right of indigenous peoples to represent themselves (North America
Indigenous Peoples, 2010).
“Tribal journalists sometimes come under enormous pressure from tribal
authorities and others not to publish items that are perceived as critical or intrusive,”
Kemper stressed in his study, as cited by North America Indigenous Peoples (2010).
“They are sometimes accused of not doing what is best for their tribal group” (North
America Indigenous Peoples, 2010).
Similarly, in an international conference involving journalism and the indigenous
communities, some tribal journalists admitted that they often find themselves agonizing
over whether to publicize some news or shelve it to protect their community (Cariboni,
2008).
On the other hand, non-native journalists are often put in an untenable position: If
they go into an aboriginal story “cold,” they can both encounter resistance and get the
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
8
story wrong; but if they do their preliminary research and work to gain community trust,
they can be accused of being biased or too close to the story. Likewise, aboriginal
journalists may be limited professionally to covering “native beats” and then criticized
for their pro-native bias (Media Awareness Network, 2011).
Nor do aboriginal communities themselves always cooperate in telling their story.
“We can’t use the quick-hit approach,” says CBC journalist Loreen Pindera, as cited by
Media Awareness Network (2011). “It takes an awful lot more time to re-establish trust
with a community after they’ve been so frequently misrepresented by the media” (Media
Awareness Network, 2011).
Furthermore, the Media Awareness Network (2011) put it that:
“… the only coverage native people receive in the news media centers on political
and constitutional issues, forest fires, poverty and substance or sexual abuse.
Occasionally,
stories
about
cultural activities appear on some local
stations—but these are usually given only passing mention. And when it comes
to issues that affect all…aboriginal people are rarely, if ever, consulted.
Of course, the fundamental nature of news and news reporting is that the
bad news gets all the attention. Tragedies, conflicts and crises get reported;
success stories rarely do. But the end result is that a non-native audience may
come to the conclusion that aboriginal people are a troubled, plagued and
contentious people.
Rudy Platiel, who spent 27 years covering the aboriginal beat for the
Globe and Mail, noted that there are an “awful lot of good things happening that
are not going to get reported in the mainstream press unless somebody pushes to
get them there.”
There are a number of causes for poor reporting on aboriginal issues.
Journalists have tight deadlines and are rarely given adequate time to thoroughly
investigate issues; the gatekeepers of newsrooms and newspapers are seldom
well-versed in aboriginal affairs; and there is a dearth of experienced aboriginal
journalists.
In a 1994 study by the Diversity Committee of the Canadian Newspaper
Association, of the 41 mainstream papers surveyed (employing 2,620 reporters,
copy editors, photographers and supervisors), only four people were aboriginal.
These factors all contribute to the perpetuation of incomplete and, in some
cases, biased information. Over the years, for example, much coverage has been
given to the “tax-free” status of Canadian aboriginals—leaving many Canadians
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
9
to believe that all native people share a lucrative tax-exempt status. What is less
well known is that only those working on reserves are eligible, and the
unemployment rate in these communities is high since opportunities for work are
quite
limited.”
It is essential then, as we consider the pressures that tribal journalists endure, to
think about how tribal peoples want and deserve as much sovereignty as possible,
according to Kemper. “Those of us who practice or study tribal journalism do what we do
because we love our people. That is what I think is the native way. The issues of
sovereignty have to be decided by the indigenous peoples. Free press won’t flourish
unless indigenous peoples see it as an idea from within their cultures that can nourish and
protect those cultures” (North America Indigenous Peoples, 2010).
Kemper, as cited by North America Indigenous Peoples (2010) further argued:
“How could good journalism not be in the best interest of indigenous peoples who value
the truth and story-telling as a means of survival and prosperity?”
Definition of Terms
The following terms were defined on how they were used in the study:
Indigenous Peoples (IPs). Indigenous peoples are those who, having a historical
continuity with pre-invasion and pre-colonial societies that developed on their territories,
consider themselves distinct from other sectors of the societies now prevailing on those
territories, or parts of them. They form at present non-dominant sectors of society and are
determined to preserve, develop and transmit to future generations their ancestral
territories and their ethnic identity, as the basis of their continued existence as peoples, in
accordance with their own cultural patterns, social institutions and legal system (United
Nations–Department of Economic and Social Affairs, 2004).
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
10
In Australian communities, the IPs are referred to as “aboriginals” (Tchacos and
Vallance, 2004). In Latin America, they are called as “natives” (Chávez, 2008).
Meanwhile, Indian Americans are termed as “tribal” people (North America Indigenous
Peoples, 2011).
IP-related issue. An IP-related issue refers to a concern, topic or subject that is of
great association and relationship to IPs and their culture.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
11
METHODOLOGY
Locale and Time of the Study
The study was conducted in Baguio City (Figure 1) from December 2010 to
February 2011.
Baguio is a highly-urbanized city in Northern Luzon. Its name was derived from
the word ‘bagiw’ in Ibaloi, one of the indigenous languages of the Benguet province,
meaning “moss.” It was established by the Americans in 1900 at the site of an Ibaloi
village known as Kafagway. It was designated by the Philippine Commission as the
Summer Capital of the Philippines on June 1, 1903 and was incorporated as a city by the
Philippine Assembly on September 1, 1909.
Baguio City is at an altitude of approximately 1500 meters (5100 feet) in the
Luzon tropical pine forests eco-region conducive to the growth of mossy plants and
orchids. It is the seat of government of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and
has become the center of business and commerce as well as the center of education in
Northern Luzon.
According to the 2007 census, it has a population of 301,926.
Baguio City is likewise a home to the media industry. Community newspapers
come in wide array. Among these are the Baguio Chronicle, Northern Dispatch, SunStar–
Baguio and Zigzag Weekly. The regional offices of mainstream daily publications also
proliferate in the area, one of which is the Philippine Daily Inquirer–Northern Luzon
Bureau.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
12
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
13
Figure 1. Map showing the locale of the study
Respondents of the Study
Twenty Baguio-based newspaper journalists were purposively chosen. Staff from
the newspapers in Baguio City, which included Baguio Chronicle, Northern Dispatch,
SunStar–Baguio, Zigzag Weekly and Philippine Daily Inquirer–Northern Luzon Bureau,
served as the respondents.
The criteria in choosing the respondents were the following: they should have
background and experience in gathering and writing IP-related information, as part of
their job as journalists, from any of the communities in Benguet.
There were five respondents from Baguio Chronicle, five from Northern
Dispatch, five from SunStar–Baguio, three from Zigzag Weekly and two from the
Philippine Daily Inquirer–Northern Luzon Bureau.
Data Collection
Personal interview was employed in gathering data. A questionnaire was used as a
guide in conducting the interviews.
Data Gathered
The respondents’ practices in covering IP-related information in the communities
of Benguet were documented. The challenges they encountered in covering such issues
from the communities were likewise identified, as well as the IP-related issues they
covered in Benguet.
Moreover, the study noted the respondents’ profile.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
14
Data Analysis
The gathered data were consolidated, tabulated and analyzed using frequency
counts and percentages. Likewise, they were presented in descriptive and narrative form.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
15
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Respondents’ Profile
Age. Table 1 presents the respondents’ profile. Based on the table, the age range
of six of the respondents fall under the 27-30 category. The 35-39 age bracket came next,
with five respondents. This was followed by the 19-22 and 23-26 brackets, respectively.
This implies that majority of the respondents are young adults, according to Erik
Erikson’s (1975) classification.
Number of years of journalism practice. Most respondents’ (55%) average
number of years of journalism practice, which involves covering of IP-related issues, falls
under the 1-5 years range. Those (25%) with 6-10 years of experience ranked second.
Meanwhile, those (5%) with 11-15 years and 16-20 (5%) years of journalism practice
listed the least frequency. Ten percent of the respondents have practiced journalism
involving covering of IP-related issues in a span of more than 20 years. This indicates
that most of the respondents do not have lengthy-time experience in covering IP-related
issues in the communities of Benguet.
Ethno-linguistic affiliation. Ethno-linguistic group is a concept that has been used
to define a human social unit that shares the same language and culture and uses the same
criteria to differentiate itself from other social groups (Jenkins, 2010).
Seventy-five percent of the respondents are of Cordilleran descent while 15% are
non-Cordillerans. Meanwhile, 10% said they came from the mixture of Cordilleran and
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
16
non-Cordilleran ancestry. This means that most of the respondents are indigenous people
themselves.
Table 1. Respondents’ age range, number of years of journalism practice and ethno-
linguistic affiliation
CHARACTERISTICS FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
N=20
(%)
Respondents’ Age Range
Age Bracket
19 – 22 years old
3
15
23 – 26 years old
2
10
27 – 30 years old
6
30
31 – 34 years old
1
5
35 – 39 years old
5
25
40 – 43 years old
2
10
44 – 48 years old
1
5
TOTAL 20
100
Respondents’ Number of Years of Journalism
Practice Involving Covering of IP-Related
Issues
Range
1 – 5 years
11
55
6 – 10 years
5
25
11 – 15 years
1
5
16 – 20 years
1
5
21 years – above
2
10
TOTAL 20
100
Respondents’ Ethno-linguistic Affiliation
Cluster
Cordilleran 15
75
Non-Cordilleran 3
15
Mixed (Cordilleran and non-
2 10
Cordilleran)
TOTAL 20
100
IP-Related Issues Covered by the Respondents
in Benguet
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
17
Majority of the respondents said they have covered issues on mining (Table 2). A
staff of Northern Dispatch noted that during her visit to Mankayan to cover the mining
exploration in the area, she observed that most groups of people in the place were against
Table 2. IP-related issues covered by the respondents in Benguet
IP-RELATED ISSUE
FREQUENCY
(N=20)
Mining exploration
16
Cultural festivals (Adivay, Bendiyan Festival, Ibaloi Day)
15
Ancestral land claims
14
Justice system
12
Culture and tradition commercialization
9
History (of a particular IP community)
6
* multiple responses
the mining exploration in the community because of its destructive effects. Another staff
of the same publication added that majority of the people in Bakun were against mining
activities, too.
The opposition can be linked to the belief of IPs that land is life and that it is
sacred. As Cordilleran Chieftain Macliing Dulag put it, “land is grace that must be
nurtured” (The Mountain Collegian, 2009).
Issues on cultural festivals and celebrations were likewise covered by most of the
respondents. This result supports the growing concern of documenting Indigenous
Knowledge, Systems and Practices (IKSPs) in IP communities, may it be in print or in
other forms of media. As emphasized by the Philippine Clearing House Mechanism for
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
18
Biodiversity (2009), an information-sharing site under the Department of Environment
and Natural Resources (DENR), the documentation of these IKSPs is of great importance
in understanding the norms of conduct, customs and traditions, belief systems and
institutions of indigenous peoples in the Philippines.
Equally, most of the respondents covered the celebration of the Bendiyan festival
in Kabayan. Some visited La Trinidad, Tuba and Itogon regarding cultural celebrations
such as Adivay and Ibaloi Day, among others.
Concerns on ancestral land claims were also mostly covered. Behind this is the
idea that central to indigenous ways of life is the persistence of traditionally-owned lands
and resources and on this basis, hunting, gathering, agriculture and handicrafts are
prevalent modes of livelihood. Private ownership, in its common understanding,
especially of land, does not largely exist. Individual ownership of land was confined to
irrigated rice terraces constructed elaborately by some of the indigenous peoples in the
Cordillera region. All other ancestral lands and all their resources are traditionally
considered community property (Cordillera People’s Alliance–Minority Rights Group,
2010).
Meanwhile, Gary Pekas, 47 years old, staffwriter of Zigzag Weekly, covered
issues on the justice system of Bakun and the issue on the violation of rights in Bokod
and Mankayan.
Likewise, a staff of Baguio Chronicle visited Tuba, Kapangan, Itogon and
Buguias to cover issues on the commercialization of culture.
History of some of the communities in Benguet was likewise written about by the
respondents.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
19
The said issues are greatly connected to the very culture of the IPs, as the
respondents noted.
Respondents’ Practices in Gathering IP-Related
Information from the Communities of Benguet
Background. The respondents recognized that the basic practices in gathering
information in journalism apply to both mainstream and IP communities with some noted
differences (Table 3). According to the respondents, having a background on the IP-
related issue being covered is significant in understanding the issue itself. Adam Borja,
associate editor of Baguio Chronicle, said that one should do a background check on the
subject. “Do this so that you would know what to say and what to do when you are in the
area, especially if you do not have enough knowledge on the issue,” he said.
Maurice Malanes, who writes for the Philippine Daily Inquirer–Northern Luzon
Bureau, averred that a journalist should have a strong understanding and context of the
history of IP communities. “It will give substance to your reportage,” he said.
He claimed that if a journalist truly understands the issue he is writing about, he
helps clarify things with the readers, considering the issue on the misunderstanding of the
IPs.
Entry. In going to the indigenous communities of Benguet to cover IP-related
issues, most of the respondents mentioned that they go with IP advocate groups. “There
are instances wherein an IP group would visit a certain community. Take the chance of
going with them because at least they have a background of that certain community,” a
respondent said.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
20
Malanes, who started practicing journalism in the 1990s, said that going with
advocate groups to IP communities builds a part of networks and linkages. He said that
advocate groups come in various political leanings, particularly. “Learn to deal with such
Table 3. Respondents’ practices in gathering IP-related information from mainstream and
IP communities
ACTIVITY RESPONDENTS’
RESPONDENTS’
PRACTICES IN
PRACTICES IN
GATHERING IP-
GATHERING IP-
RELATED
RELATED
INFORMATION FROM
INFORMATION FROM
THE MAINSTREAM
THE COMMUNITIES IN
COMMUNITIES
BENGUET
Research/
Do a research/have a Do a research/have a
Background
background on the topic.
background on the topic.
Entry
A journalist can go directly
Go with IP advocate groups
to the target community.
who visit IP communities.
Identifying
A journalist can directly go
Consult the elders before
informants
to the concerned person/s
interviewing the concerned
for interview.
person/s.
Data-gathering Directly
approaching
and
Conform to the ‘pinikpikan’
asking the concerned and ‘tapuey’ traditions of the
person/s can be done.
IPs in communicating,
among others.
A journalist can use English
Speak in a particular IP
or Tagalog in
community’s native
communicating with the language. For those who do
person/s involved.
not know any, learn some.
Observe the basic Observe procedures or
journalism protocol in considerations set by the
acquiring and handling elders particularly in
documents.
acquiring needed
documents. At the same
time, observe the basic
journalism protocol in
acquiring and handling
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
21
documents.
Always ask permission Always ask permission
before interviewing and before interviewing and
taking pictures.
taking pictures.
Exit
A journalist can just leave
Visit the elders before
after gathering needed leaving the community.
information.
different clusters. It will further your skill in gathering information,” he said. The IP
groups’ advocacy might also be of help to the story, he added.
Identifying informants. One feature that puts the distinction between covering
issues in IP communities and non-IP communities is the fact that IPs have their own
IKSPs, according to most of the respondents. Borja, who has been in the journalism
profession for 20 years, agrees to this principle. “When you interview a mainstream
Filipino, you can just go directly to the person/s involved and get that/those person/s’
statement. In IP communities, a journalist should always consider visiting the elders,” he
said.
Majority of the respondents noted the importance of visiting and consulting the
community elders before conducting any interview with the party involved.
The respondents put it that elders have the first-hand knowledge on most of the
issues that concern the IPs and that IP communities give high regard for them. This will
also serve as a sign of respect for them, according to the respondents.
The premise on the high regard for elders as the holders of first-hand knowledge
involving IP-related issues supports the statement of Walker (1993) that the elders “have
the wisdom, the knowledge and the spirit. Elders play an extremely important role in
indigenous families as role models, care providers and educators. We rely strongly on
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22
them as key decision-makers within families. They are the people we hold the greatest
respect for because many of them went through so much. Their guidance is often
illustrated through everyday life and their teachings are often done subconsciously; we
follow, we observe and we go on to teach our own families. It is through our elders that
the spirit as indigenous people is kept alive.”
An instance illustrating this is the custody of ancestral lands. Traditional leaders
or elders act as guardians of such ancestral lands, as put by the Cordillera People’s
Alliance–Minority Rights Group (2010).
The respondents also mentioned that the community elders could refer possible
informants for the issue.
Data-gathering. One unique feature of gathering information from IP
communities is the unhurried mode of disclosing information from the natives. According
to Malanes, an effective way of gathering information from IPs is the “story-telling”
approach. “Talk to them the normal way, like you’re just telling stories. Do not speak and
act like you are a journalist because the possibility is that they will be intimidated. As a
result, they won’t be too comfortable sharing information with you,” he elaborated. On
the other hand, in mainstream communities, Malanes said that the people are more at ease
in giving information.
The story-telling manner of communicating with the IPs helps the journalist
establish pleasant rapport with them. “It’s massively important that the IPs will say,
“Maid sabsabali (We all belong). Develop the skill of relating with other people. It helps
a lot,” Malanes noted.
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of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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Meanwhile, one common traditional practice among the IPs when entertaining
someone who is not from their community is the butchering of native chicken or
‘pinikpikan’ or drinking of rice wine or ‘tapuey.’ This outlines their respect and warm
welcome for their visitor. In this consideration, the respondents said that conforming to
such tradition enormously helps in effective data-gathering.
“When you show them respect, they tend to be more comfortable in giving
information,” said a respondent. Delmar Cariño, who writes for the Philippine Daily
Inquirer–Northern Luzon Bureau and whose IP-related journalistic practice spans in over
three decades, noted that conforming to such tradition also gives the journalist the feeling
of belongingness with the community, therefore making the information-gathering more
effective, easier and smoother.
Another distinguishing feature in covering issues in IP communities is what
Cariño called the “umbrella journalism.” According to Cariño, a journalist will only go to
a particular IP community when an IP-related issue is to be covered. “The journalist goes
not very often to that IP community; unlike in a mainstream community where the people
are often involved in the covering of issues by the journalists since the journalists
themselves are based in mainstream communities. This is one thing that makes
information-gathering in IP communities different from that of mainstream
communities,” he said.
Likewise, speaking in a particular IP community’s native language hugely helps
in effective information-gathering. This will slim down chances of misinterpretation of
ideas, words and terms. The respondents stressed that for those who do not have a wide
knowledge on a particular IP community’s dialect, it is advantageous if they learn the
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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dialect, even a few basics of it. “It will narrow down the chances of the IPs being
misunderstood, eliminating their doubt that they might be misunderstood just because the
journalist doesn’t clearly understand a certain term,” added a respondent from Baguio
Chronicle.
Zigzag Weekly’s Pekas also emphasized that at times, proper procedures in
acquiring needed documents should be firmly followed especially if some instructions or
considerations are set by the elders.
Consent. All interviewees should be informed of the interview beforehand and
that their consent should be sought first. This was greatly emphasized by the respondents.
“Ask your interviewees if they are willing to bring a particular piece of information out.
It’s part of courtesy,” mentioned Malanes.
This principle should also be done in taking pictures. A journalist should always
ask permission from the involved person/s. “It is a cardinal rule,” Borja emphasized. This
disputes the practice of other photographers that subjects are to be taken in a tricky
situation and that it should not be known by the subject being taken to avoid a scripted-
type picture. “However, many trained photojournalists emphasized that asking
permission could still create a picture that is “unscripted” to view. That is where the skill
of the photographer would come in,” added Borja.
Exit. The respondents noted that it is still important to consult the elders before
leaving the community. “For the mainstream communities, you can just leave after the
data gathering. In an IP community, you should visit the elders back to show your
courtesy and respect for the community. This way, you can always go back to the
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community and gather information more easily since you already established an
understanding with them and have shown them respect,” explained Malanes.
It is argued that respect for persons and cultures is a critical element in effective
information-gathering. Respect is reflected in each of the steps undertaken to gather and
analyze the data, validate the findings and present outcomes in ways which communities
find comprehensible, accessible and facilitative of their growth and continued
development (Tchacos and Vallance, 2004).
Respondents’ Practices in Writing
IP-Related Information from the
Communities of Benguet
Interpretation. The respondents affirmed that verifying the facts with the person/s
involved or with those who have deep understanding on the issue is a big deal in the
article’s credibility.
According to the respondents, the interpretation of IP-related data needs to be
done in the presence of the person/s involved on the issue (Table 4). SunStar–Baguio’s
Mary Ann Cacdac put it that in a non-IP community, a journalist can interpret the
gathered information even without the presence of the person/s involved. However, in an
IP community, a reporter should do the interpretation with the person/s involved. One
reason for this, according to the respondents, is the interconnection of most IP-related
issues.
Additionally, the respondents said that a journalist should be sensitive enough to
understand and interpret any IP-related information that he/she is handling or writing
about. Yu (2010) warns journalists that some problems are real, notwithstanding the
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26
causes and roots of those problems; others are exaggerations with little foundation. Those
negative images may be a result of ignorance or maybe because of prejudice and bias.
Angling and framing. It is significant to always present both sides of the story
involving an IP-related issue, according to the respondents.
Table 4. Respondents’ practices in writing IP-related information from mainstream and
IP communities
ACTIVITY RESPONDENTS’
RESPONDENTS’
PRACTICES IN
PRACTICES IN
WRITING IP-RELATED
WRITING IP-RELATED
INFORMATION FROM
INFORMATION FROM
THE MAINSTREAM
THE COMMUNITIES IN
COMMUNITIES
BENGUET
Interpretation
A journalist can interpret
The interpretation of the
the information gathered information gathered
even without the person/s
needs to be done in the
involved.
presence of the person/s
involved.
Angling and framing
A journalist can present Always present all
only one side of the story.
possible sides of the story.
Always balance the report.
Observe the basic Observe the basic
journalism rules in handling
journalism rules in
sources.
handling sources.
Verify the data story before
Verify the data story
publishing.
before publishing.
Be aware of the rules of the
Be aware of the rules of
court.
the court.
Publishing
Observe the basic Observe procedures or
journalism protocol in considerations set by the
acquiring and handling elders particularly in
documents.
acquiring needed
documents. At the same
time, observe the basic
journalism protocol in
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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acquiring and handling
documents.
Cariño said that in framing a mainstream issue, presenting only one side of the
story is at times acceptable. On the other hand, in handling an IP-related story, he noted
that it is always vital that a journalist should always consider presenting both sides of the
issue. This is because IP-related issues are most of the time interconnected, as Cariño put
it.
Specifically, on the issue of small-scale mining in Bakun, two faces of argument
surfaced, that of the pro-mining and anti-mining groups. “What I did was I interviewed
the group who supported the proposal on small-scale mining. Then I went to get the
reasons of the “pro” group for going against the scheme,” explained a respondent from
Northern Dispatch. She added that in such situations, careful reporting is very important
and that a journalist should be careful enough to be able to present both sides.
According to Malanes, the parties involved tend to be critical on the presentation
of the story. “For example, on the issue of mining in Itogon, in my experience, when I
wrote about the negative effects of mining explorations, the corporation operating the
industry scrutinized the article and there were not-so-good comments. But when you do
not put the negative effects of mining in your story, the affected IPs are likely to criticize
you for not putting it. That is how critical taking sides is. The point is learn to always
balance your story; present both sides,” he said.
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In this context, Plater (1993), as stated by Yu (2010), said that for journalists,
adequate journalistic education is the key to understanding indigenous people and to a
balanced and objective reporting on indigenous people. The Royal Commission has
recommended that “media courses containing a significant component relating to
aboriginal affairs are needed to properly reflect the social context in which journalists
work.”
Moreover, journalists should refrain from using the elements of oddity which
often leads to sensationalized stories, as the respondents emphasized. The respondents
recognize the fact that sensationalism indeed sells. However, they also recognize that IPs
have the right to be represented and interpreted fairly and rightly. The bottom line is that
journalists should never sensationalize stories, according to the respondents. They
stressed that getting the story right means always balancing voices and presenting sides
accurately.
Philippine Daily Inquirer–Northern Luzon Bureau’s Malanes asserted that instead
of focusing on the element of conflict, a more effective alternative in writing the story is
the proposal of solutions to the conflict presented. In this way, the writer helps unravel
the chains that held the IPs in stereotype for so long, as Malanes pointed out.
Sources. The respondents noted that most of the usual practices employed in
writing a story from the mainstream communities are similarly done to that of an IP-
related issue. One of these is the handling of source.
In writing the article, one should consider withholding the name/s of source/s if
requested. “Respect your sources. Ask them if they want their names to be published or
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not. Based on my experience, some indigenous groups are not used to being interviewed
and cited,” revealed a staff of Northern Dispatch.
Journalists’ interaction with sources sometimes involves confidentiality, an
extension of freedom of the press giving journalists a legal protection to keep the identity
of a source private even when demanded by police or prosecutors. The right is based on
the recognition that without a strong guarantee of anonymity, many people would be
deterred from coming forward and sharing information of public interests with journalists
(Anonymous, 2008).
Cacdac also added, “Disclose your sources to your editor so that if anything
happens, someone else knows who your source/s is/are.”
Verification. SunStar–Baguio’s Cacdac stressed that a journalist should always
verify, clarify and analyze the data gathered from indigenous communities especially that
most of the IP issues are complicated and interrelated or interconnected. “Verify, verify,
verify. Ask those who have an extensive background on the subject or issue. You do not
want to be sued for libel,” she added.
There is always the threat of libel facing those journalists, who, through
carelessness, ignorance or malice, make inaccurate statements in their reports that reflect
the character or reputation of an individual or group (Anonymous, 2011).
Another reason for constant verification is the sensitivity of most IP-related
issues. Cariño explained, “Some information, while they are of public interest, are
considered taboo among the IPs and that publishing these information is just not
acceptable.” This is where the issue on the rules of the court would also come in.
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Cacdac’s remark strengthens the basic fact that governs the practice of
journalism: Verify the information before you publish. This is a must to all journalists, a
rule that needs to be observed at all times as journalism books and journalism professors
always emphasize.
Rules of court. Baguio Chronicle editor Borja noted, “Know the rules of the court
– particularly on the issues of contempt of court and libel – including that of the
Constitution.”
Borja, who is also taking a degree in law, elaborated that in most cases, the “see-
saw” between the freedom of the press and the [IP-related] issues’ critical nature is in
motion. According to him, journalists are bound by the law, therefore, the freedom of the
press is not absolute. On the other hand, the extent of confidentiality or sensitivity of an
IP-related issue, for that matter, is likewise limited by the Constitution. He said that
journalists should be aware of this.
Generally, Borja, Cariño and Malanes all agree that it takes a higher degree of
sensitivity and special skill in covering a story in IP communities. “In the mainstream
communities, you do the typical way of covering a story. You can have their statements
published right away. This is because they quite know the nature of mass media, they are
accustomed to it, they are accustomed to what is common around. But in gathering
information from IP communities, there’s a sort of special kind of treatment of the story –
starting from interviewing your sources, accessing pertinent documents and finally
writing the story,” backed Cariño.
Tchacos and Vallance (2004) affirmed this assertion: “Aboriginal people have
different cultural and language background from mainstream society and therefore there
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is a need to develop models of inquiry that recognize these cultural differences and are
sensitive.”
Cariño further stressed that a journalist must be constantly guided by the
journalist’s code of ethics.
Respondents’ Challenges in Gathering and
Writing IP-Related Information from
the Communities of Benguet
Table 5 presents the challenges the respondents encountered in gathering and
writing IP-related information from the communities of Benguet. Accordingly, in some
cases, when roads are closed, the IP-related story is likely to be scrapped or unfinished.
Hence, the search for the “real story” is hindered. Connected to this is the matter on the
deadline of the article and the distance of the community where the issue is to be covered.
The respondents put it that if the place is too far and remote, the possibility is that the
article will not be finished before its deadline of submission.
Specifically, in cases of typhoons and other natural phenomena, the respondents
noted that needed information from involved IP communities could not be accessed due
to roads which are shut down.
Malanes said that as a result, such hindrance sternly affects the story. “The story
would end up half-finished, if not scrapped. It would lack depth, heightening the
possibility of misinterpretation,” he said. The Media Awareness Network (2011) supports
this: “Journalists have tight deadlines and are rarely given adequate time to thoroughly
investigate issues.”
In addition, most of the respondents mentioned that some IPs do not trust how the
journalists handle reports that involve them (IPs). They fear that the story might be
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
32
framed using the element of oddity, making the story sensationalized. “They presume that
they may be misinterpreted or misunderstood. This is particularly true to journalists who
do not have detailed knowledge about IPs,” Pekas noted.
Table 5. Respondents’ challenges in gathering and writing IP-related information from
the communities of Benguet
CHALLENGE INSTANCE/S
Place inaccessibility/road problem
In some cases, particularly during
typhoons,
the
road/s going to the
community where an issue should be
covered cannot be reached due to its/their
closure.
Deadline and distance of the place
The deadline of submission of the [IP-
related] article makes it possible for it not
to be continued [to be written] or finished
due to the long distance of the place
involved.
Indigenous peoples’ wariness toward
Some IP groups assume the possibility of
the media
being misquoted or misunderstood by the
journalists. Others pre-judge the journalists
as doing a press release for a certain
company or political figure.
Struggle in feeling belongingness
Journalists who do not feel that they belong
and are welcome to the IP community
where an issue is being covered find it hard
to gather information from that community.
Language barrier
In some instances, some journalists’ lack of
knowledge on the IPs’ local dialect often
leads to misinterpreted, inaccurate or
inappropriate terms.
Cultural barrier
Some IP members avoid going against their
fellow IP members for the sake of
maintaining community harmony. On the
other hand, the culture of ‘inayan’ (fear of
going against the norm) sometimes leads to
incorrect information being disclosed.
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
33
Bridging the IPs and
Some offices/institutions feed the IPs with
the government
wrong information, making the later
misled. In some instances, the
government’s alleged poor understanding
on the rights of IPs makes the situation
worse.
This was echoed by Yu (2010): “Many journalists are not well-versed in
indigenous affairs.” Fueling the worse scenario is what Yu (2010) described as the
journalists’ competition for readers and viewers. Many journalists believe they are
compelled to focus on conflict and violence – two of the distinct elements in writing a
story in the mainstream media. This created the gap between the journalists and the IPs
(Media Awareness Network, 2011).
Cariño disclosed that there are times that IP communities judge a journalist as
doing publicity for a certain company or political figure. “This is one challenge
journalists gravely face,” he said.
Malanes’ experience also validates this finding: “When I once visited Atok to
cover an IP-related issue, I was mistakenly identified as a representative of the Bureau of
Internal Revenue (BIR). It was because I happened to ask some income-related questions.
And when people are asked with those kinds of questions they tend to be passive. So you
see in here the role judgment and presumption significantly play.”
A factor that contributes to such scenario is what Malanes termed as the “research
fatigue.” According to him, it is the trend that occurs when researchers, journalists or
survey representatives flock to a community to inquire for the same information. “They
arrive to the idea that people from the mainstream communities sort of ask questions over
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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and over again. Kumbaga nakukulitan sila sa paulit-ulit na mga tanong (It’s like they’re
fed up with the same questions),” said Malanes.
More importantly, the concept of “umbrella journalism” aggravates the IPs’
wariness toward the media, according to Cariño. “Since the journalists do not always visit
IP communities, possibility is that IP-related stories do not have strong, deep foundation
when published,” he explained.
Similarly, Cariño and Pekas recognize that the IPs’ wariness toward the media
fuels the journalists’ struggle in feeling belongingness in the IP community where the
issue is being covered. “You find it hard to talk to them and gather information
comfortably because you do not feel that you belong in their community,” said Cariño.
Moreover, Pekas noted the role of culture itself in gathering and writing IP-related
information from IP communities. He said that with the strong traditionalism among the
IPs, going against a fellow IP member would reflect as an act of antagonism against the
existing cultural norm. “You rather choose not to speak or act against your fellow IP
member because you want to maintain good community relationships,” Pekas said.
On the other hand, he acknowledges the fact that amid the strong cultural bond,
IPs sometimes go off track from their culture. “Sometimes they also betray their own
people. Of course they have their reasons, but the point is that the culture of ‘inayan’
(fear of going against the norm) is now slowly disintegrating. As a result, some IP
members give incorrect or inaccurate information to the journalist,” Pekas added. This
statement of Pekas is ironic to what Walker (1993) pointed out that a dominant
characteristic of the indigenous family is the sense of kinship, the feeling of family
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
35
togetherness, the ability to rely on each other, and the creation of spiritual bonding which
helps to give hope and strength to indigenous people.
According to a Northern Dispatch respondent, what is worse is that they [IPs] are
fed with wrong information by non-government organizations (NGOs) and political
organizations by conducting forums.
On the issue of mining in Benguet, according to a Baguio Chronicle respondent,
some agencies conduct forums on the positive effects of mining. “Consequently, the
government’s weak efforts in advancing the rights of the IPs, such as passing of
memorandums and the like in favor of the IPs’ concerns, make the IPs less heard,
prompting the breach between the IPs and the government that is supposed to be the
frontliner in championing the rights of the IPs,” agreed Pekas.
In this connection, De Vera (2010) argued that very limited development
activities in support of the Ancestral Domain Management Plans have been implemented.
“The inability of the government to fully implement the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act
(IPRA) in order to address the problems and concerns of the indigenous communities is
rooted in conflicting policies, capacity gaps and a questionable commitment to empower
indigenous communities. The urgency of the problem is underscored by overt
encouragement on the part of government of the entry of large-scale commercial
investment into traditional lands to install extractive industries which include open-pit
mining, palm oil plantations and industrial forest farms,” he stressed.
In this situation, the journalist has the choice to make the two meet halfway for a
responsible and productive societal landscape, as Pekas said.
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
36
The power of journalists is undeniable. Any attempt to solve problems on
aboriginal communities should be done in partnership with and the consent of the
aboriginal community (Tchacos and Vallance, 2004).
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
37
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study was conducted to document the practices of Baguio-based newspaper
journalists in covering IP-related issues in the communities of Benguet. Specifically, it
intended to determine the profile of the respondents; to identify the IP-related issues
covered by the respondents in Benguet; to identify the practices applied by the
respondents in gathering and writing IP-related information from the communities of
Benguet and to identify the respondents’ challenges in gathering and writing IP-related
information from the communities of Benguet.
The researcher used personal interview as instrument. The study was conducted
from December 2010 to February 2011.
The respondents’ mostly-covered IP-related issues in Benguet have something to
do with the IPs’ culture.
There were noted differences between covering issues in mainstream
communities and that of IP communities.
The respondents put it that it is extremely important for a journalist to consult the
elders and conform to the traditions of IPs for effective information-gathering.
The respondents’ challenges in covering issues in IP communities of Benguet
have something to do with deadline of the article, topography, IPs’ wariness toward the
media and culture itself.
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
38
Conclusions
The following conclusions were drawn based on the findings of the study:
1.
Majority of the respondents are indigenous people themselves. However,
they do not have lengthy-time experience in covering IP-related issues in the
communities of Benguet.
2.
Most of the issues covered by the respondents in IP communities have
something to do with the communities’ culture.
3.
There were noted differences between covering issues in mainstream
communities and that of IP communities.
4.
In covering IP-related issues in IP communities, the respondents
constantly involve the elders in gathering and writing the stories.
5.
A specialized type of skill is needed in covering IP-related issues as most
of these issues are sensitive and are sometimes interrelated or interconnected.
6.
Baguio-based newspaper journalists who cover IP-related issues in
Benguet are sometimes challenged by issues on the province’s topography, IPs’ distrust
on the media, language barrier, cultural barrier and the growing gap between the IPs and
the government.
Recommendations
The following are recommended:
1.
Other researchers may want to focus on the possible solutions to the
challenges identified by the respondents.
2.
Other researchers may want to cover the broadcast aspect of the study.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
39
3.
Other researches may want to consider focusing on the study’s concept on
other IP communities in the region as practices vary from one IP community to another.
4.
Findings of the study should be written in monograph to be shared with
community development workers and the IPs themselves.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
40
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ANONYMOUS. 2011. Broadcast News: Writing, Reporting and Producing.
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CARIBONI, D. 2008. Indigenous Reporting: Between Activism and Professionalism.
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CHÁVEZ, F. 2008. Indigenous Journalists Plant a Seed. Retrieved September 16, 2010
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CORDILLERA PEOPLE’S ALLIANCE–MINORITY RIGHTS GROUP. 2010.
Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines. Retrieved October 1, 2010 from
www.hreoc.gov.racial_discrimination/media_guide
DE VERA, D. 2007. Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines: A Country Case Study.
Retrieved October 1, 2010 from http://www.iapad.org/publications/ppgis/devera
ip phl.pdf
ERIKSON, E. 1975. Childhood and Society. USA: Penguin. Pp. 255
JENKINS, O. 2010. Ethnolinguistic. Retrieved March 15, 2011 from
http://orvillejenkins.com/ethnicity/ethnolinguistic.html
MEDIA AWARENESS NETWORK. 2011. Aboriginal People in the News. Retrieved
March 20, 2011 from http://www.mediaawareness.ca/english/issues/ stereotyping/
aboriginal_people/aboriginal_news.cfm
MINDFRAME NATIONAL MEDIA INITIATIVE. 2011. Reporting for Indigenous
Australians. Retrieved January 8, 2011 from http://mindframe-media.powersites.
com.au/site/index.cfm?display=84365
NORTH AMERICA INDIGENOUS PEOPLES. 2010. ‘Love Of People’ Drives Free
Expression Among Tribal Reporters. Retrieved September 16, 2010 from
http://indigenouspeoplesissues.com/index.php?option=com
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
41
PHILIPPINE CLEARING HOUSE MECHANISM FOR BIODIVERSITY. 2009.
Documenting IKSPs in IP Communities. Retrieved March 2, 2011 from
http://www.denr.gov.ph/
SCOTT, L. 2006. Melbourne Journal of Politics: Negative Exposure: A Snapshot of
ATSIC in Australia’s Mainstream Print Media. Retrieved March 20, 2011 from
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb6386/is_31/ai_n29310963/
TCHACOS, E and R.J. VALLANCE. 2004. Research in Aboriginal Communities:
Cultural Sensitivity as a Prerequisite. Australia: The University of Melbourne. Pp
1.
THE MOUNTAIN COLLEGIAN. 2009. Volume 38 Issue 1. Baguio City: Rianella
Printing Press.
UNITED NATIONS–DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL AFFAIRS.
2004. Workshop on Data Collection and Disaggregation for Indigenous Peoples:
The Concept of Indigenous Peoples. New York, USA: UN. Pp. 2
WALKER, Y. 1993. Aboriginal Family Issues. Retrieved February 28, 2011 from http://
www.aifs.gov.au/institute/pubs/fm1/fm35yw.html
YU, Y. 2005. Australia – New Country, Old History. Retrieved October 1, 2010 from
http://www.fulbright.com.au/events-and-media/documents/YanminYu.pdf
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
42
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A
Questions for the Interview
I. RESPONDENT’S PROFILE
Name (optional): ________________________________________________
Age: ______________ Civil Status: _________________ Sex: _______
Highest educational attainment:
( ) elementary
( ) secondary/high school
( ) tertiary/college (course): _______________________________________
( ) vocational (specify): ___________________________________________
Ethno-linguistic affiliation (if any): __________________________________
II. JOURNALISTIC PRACTICE PROFILE
*Position in the publication: _______________________________________
*Number of years of journalism practice involving covering of IP-related
issues: _________________________________________________________
*Benguet communities visited [in covering IP-related issues]:
______________________________________________________________
1. What IP-related issue/s was/were you able to cover in the communities of
Benguet?
_______________________________________________________________
2. In conducting interviews with IP communities, is there a standard set of
procedures or protocol that you follow?
_______________________________________________________________
How do you usually do the interview? Is it individually or by group?
_______________________________________________________________
How do you approach the person or party involved in a story? Do you directly
look for him or do you approach the particular community’s barangay captain
or council of elders?
_______________________________________________________________
3. In writing an IP-related story, is there a standard set of procedures or protocol
that you follow?
_______________________________________________________________
Are there factors or elements that you consider in angling a story?
_______________________________________________________________
4. What type of source/s do you usually use in getting/writing a story? Primary
or secondary? If such, what is/are this/these?
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
43
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Is there a set of codes or procedures that you follow in handling your sources
(like the withholding of names and confidentiality issues)?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
5. In paper trails, how do you access or acquire documents related to your story?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Is there a set of rules that you follow?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
6. What are your positive experiences regarding the gathering/writing of IP-
related information in the communities of Benguet?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
How about the negative ones? What are the challenges that you encountered
in covering IP-related issues in the communities of Benguet?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
7. What advice can you give your co-media practitioners as well as the young
journalists in the gathering/writing of IP-related stories specifically in
Benguet?
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
44
APPENDIX B
Letter for the Interview
Republic of the Philippines
BENGUET STATE UNIVERSITY
La Trinidad, Benguet
College
of
Agriculture
DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION
Development Communication Society
GOALS and OBJECTIVES
12 January 2011
The Department exists to:
1. Provide instruction for the
ADAM O. BORJA
acquisition of re
levant knowledge
Associate Editor
and skills essential to develop ment
Baguio Chronicle
communication work;
2. Provide training ground for
development communicator
s who
will uphold the ideals and standards
Sir:
of instruction, research and
extension in the fields of
development journalism,
Greetings of peace!
community broadcasting and
educational communication;
3. Create innovative alternative
I am a fourth year student of Bachelor of Science in Development Communication of
comm
unication strategies and
Benguet State University. Presently, I am conducting a thesis titled “Journalists and
opportu
nities that shall draw the full
Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio‐Based Newspaper
potentials of learners and
Journalists in Covering IP‐Related Issues in the Communities of Benguet.”
practitioners of print, radio, and
television.
In this regard, please allow me to conduct interviews with your staff who have experience
4. To conduct researches or
field
and background in covering stories in the communities of Benguet. Rest assured that all
studies; and
information that will be obtained from the interviews will be strictly used for research
5. To formulate and implement
purposes only.
extension and development
programs.
Thank you very much and God bless.
Office Address:
Sincerely yours,
2nd floor, College of Agri culture
Complex, Benguet State University,
RONALYN T. BANAKEN
La Trinidad, Benguet
09284152631
Email Address:
devcombsu@yahoo.com.ph
Noted:
FILMORE Y. AWAS
Adviser
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
BANAKEN, RONALYN TUBLAN. APRIL 2011. Journalists and the Indigenous
Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-Based Newspaper Journalists in
Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities of Benguet. Benguet State University, La
Trinidad, Benguet
Adviser: Filmore Y. Awas, MDevCom
ABSTRACT
The study sought to document the practices and challenges of Baguio-based
newspaper journalists in covering IP-related issues in the communities of Benguet.
The study was conducted from December 2010 to February 2011.
The IP-related issues covered by the respondents have something to do with the
IPs’ culture.
There were noted differences between covering issues in mainstream
communities from and that of IP communities.
Generally, a specialized type of skill is necessary for effective gathering and
writing of IP-related information.
Baguio-based newspaper journalists who cover IP-related issues in Benguet are
sometimes challenged by issues on the province’s topography, IPs’ distrust on the media,
language barrier, cultural barrier and the growing gap between the IPs and the
government.
Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations were drawn:
Others researchers may want to focus on the possible solutions to the challenges
identified by the respondents; other researchers may want to undertake the broadcast
aspect of the study; other researchers may want to undertake the study in a broader
locale; and findings of the study should be written in monograph to be shared with
community development workers and the IPs themselves.
ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Bibliography..………………….……………………………………............
i
Abstract………………………………………………………………………
i
Table of Contents……………………………………………………………
iv
INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………...
1
Rationale……………………………………………………………..
1
Statement of the Problem…………………………………………….
2
Objectives of the Study…………………….………………………...
2
Importance of the Study…………………….………………………..
3
Scope and Limitation of the Study…………………………………… 4
REVIEW OF LITERATURE………………………………………………...
5
Gathering and Writing Information
from IP Communities……………………………………….………..
5
Practices of Media Practitioners in Gathering and
Writing Information from IP Communities….……...………......……
5
Media Practitioners’ Challenges in Gathering and
Writing Information from IP Communities………....………..……… 6
Definition of Terms………………………………….…………....…. 9
METHODOLOGY……………………………………………………….......
11
Locale and Time of the Study…………………………….……...…. 11
Respondents of the Study……………………………………………
13
Data Collection………………………………………………………
13
Data Gathered………………………………………………………..
13
Data Analysis………………………………………………………...
14
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION…………………...………………………... 15
Respondents’ Profile…………………………………………………
15
IP-Related Issues Covered by the Respondents
in Benguet……………………………………………………………
16
Respondents’ Practices in Gathering Information
from the Communities of Benguet…………………………………..
19
Respondents’ Practices in Writing IP-
Related Information from the
Communities of Benguet ……………………………………..…….
25
Respondents’ Challenges in Gathering and Writing
Information from the Communities of Benguet…….…………….....
31
SUMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS………….….. 36
Summary………………………………………………………...…..
36
Conclusions………………………………………………………….
37
Recommendations…………………………….……………………...
37
LITERATURE CITED…………………………………….…………………
39
APPENDIX
A. Research Instrument for the Respondents……………………….
41
B. Letter for the Interview…………………………………………. 43
C. Application for Manuscript Defense…………………………….
44
1
INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Indigenous peoples (IPs) heavily value their wealthy customs and traditions. They
put so much emphasis on the sacredness of their unique rituals. This is so because of their
worldview that is centered on nature. Nature for them is life and this is what constitutes
the very foundation of their culture.
In the Cordillera, most of the IP communities retained their old ways of life.
However, in this fast-paced modern world, conformity to such traditionalism serves as a
challenge for them. And from this perspective, the fact that they maintain their traditions
often leads to them being misunderstood by the mainstream Filipino.
In part, the media play a role for such landscape. For example, since they tend to
focus on the elements of crisis, conflict and tragedy, some of their stories and reports are
put in exaggerations with unsubstantial basis. At times, the mainstream media perceive
the rituals and practices of IPs as “unusual” or “uncommon,” hence, the stories are angled
with the element of oddity. In this scenario, the IPs are either misunderstood,
misrepresented or underrepresented.
In this light, this study seeks to curb the problem on the IPs being misinterpreted
and misunderstood especially by the mainstream communities by documenting the
practices and challenges of Baguio-based print journalists in covering IP-related issues
particularly in Benguet. Having knowledge on such practices and challenges provides a
lucid picture of what IPs are, of what their beliefs relate to, of what their culture is all
about. Similarly, a clearer comprehension and understanding of the Cordilleran culture
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
2
can dissolve the barrier of misconception between the mainstream Filipino and the
indigenous person, therefore championing unity toward development.
The result of the study could be used as a reference and guide, particularly by
journalists, in promoting fairness, equality and human rights as a whole.
Statement of the Problem
The study generally aimed to document the practices and challenges of Baguio-
based newspaper journalists in covering IP-related issues in the communities of Benguet.
Specifically, it sought to answer the following questions:
1.
What is the profile of the respondents?
2.
What IP-related issues were covered by the respondents in Benguet?
3.
What practices do the respondents apply in gathering IP-related
information from the communities of Benguet?
4.
What practices do the respondents apply in writing IP-related information
from these indigenous communities?
5.
What are the respondents’ challenges in gathering and writing IP-related
information from the communities of Benguet?
Objectives of the Study
The study intended to:
1.
determine the profile of the respondents;
2.
identify the IP-related issues covered by the respondents in Benguet;
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
3
3.
identify the practices applied by the respondents in gathering IP-related
information from the communities of Benguet;
4.
identify the practices applied by the respondents in writing IP-related
information from these indigenous communities; and
5.
identify the respondents’ challenges in gathering and writing IP-related
information from the communities of Benguet.
Importance of the Study
Knowing and understanding the practices and challenges in covering issues in
indigenous communities hugely impacts the interpretation of the information gathered
and more importantly the portrayal of the IPs.
The result of the study can serve as a guide in understanding the indigenous
peoples – in educating the public on their beliefs, customs and practices. This may
narrow down the gulf of misconception and tension between the mainstream Filipino and
the indigenous person, therefore, fortifying harmony and unity which essentially escalates
development. The Philippine Clearing House Mechanism for Biodiversity (2009) noted
that such documentation can help facilitate preparation of management plans and support
policy formulation and legislation.
Moreover, the study could be a reference and guide for journalists – beginners and
experienced alike – specifically those working in indigenous communities, as well as
students who want to pursue indigenous peoples-related journalism.
For researchers, the study can serve as a springboard for further related studies.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
4
Scope and Limitation of the Study
The study focused on the practices employed by selected Baguio-based
newspaper journalists in gathering and writing IP-related information from the
communities of Benguet. The challenges they encountered in covering IP-related issues
were also covered, including the IP-related issues that they covered.
The study limited IP-related issues in Benguet communities.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
5
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Gathering and Writing Information
from IP Communities
The Australia’s Royal Commission Into Aboriginal Deaths Custody proposed the
development of codes of practice and policies relating to the presentation of indigenous
issues, the establishment of monitoring bodies and putting into place training and
employment programs for indigenous peoples (Mindframe National Media Initiative,
2011).
Mindframe National Media Initiative (2011) pointed out that although there are
no specific codes and protocol on the reporting of issues in indigenous communities,
media organizations have developed codes of practice that relate to the coverage of
indigenous issues. Journalists should refer to their relevant codes and guidelines for
further information.
In addition, the media should consider both principles and protocol for sensitive
reporting on indigenous issues.
Practices of Media Practitioners in Gathering and
Writing Information from IP Communities
In particular, the Mindframe National Media Initiative (2011) emphasized the
following points for effective gathering and reporting of information from IP
communities:
“Program
makers
and
journalists should always be aware of and challenge
their own prejudices, stereotyped beliefs and perceptions about indigenous
people.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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There is no one kind of indigenous person or community. Indigenous
communities…have their own distinct history, politics, culture and linguistic
experience.
Programs and stories should be done in consultation with indigenous
people, being particularly sensitive to the experience of those who are subjects of
the program or story.
In many… indigenous communities, the depiction…of a person who has
passed away can cause great distress to people, as can showing their image
through visual media. Even using the same name as the deceased person, or a
similar sound, can cause distress for a period of time.
A story…can be improved by canvassing members of the appropriate
indigenous community on their perceptions, rather than solely seeking the
opinions of outside experts.”
In addition, De Vera (2007) stressed that those who gather information from IP
communities should not be ill-equipped, poorly trained and lacking field experience or
appropriate cultural sensitivity to handle land conflicts and issues of resource access
affecting indigenous communities.
Most importantly, it takes the whole nation to help the indigenous communities –
the government, the public, the media, as well as indigenous people themselves (Yu,
2005).
Media Practitioners’ Challenges in Gathering and
Writing Information from IP Communities
Representations of indigenous people in the mainstream media are important, as
they have the potential to define indigenous people to non-indigenous people. They
provide a framework about what to think about indigenous people and subsequently
influence attitudes towards them. The historical context of representations of indigenous
people is central to how they are understood today. With such, the coverage of
indigenous issues by journalists involving inferential racism is significant (Scott, 2006).
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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A code of conduct can, in the real world, be difficult to uphold consistently.
Journalists who believe they are being fair or objective may give biased accounts—by
reporting selectively, trusting too much to anecdote or giving a partial explanation of
actions. Even in routine reporting, bias can creep into a story through a reporter’s choice
of facts to summarize, or through failure to check enough sources, hear and report
dissenting voices, or seek fresh perspectives (Anonymous, 2010).
Kevin R. Kemper, an assistant professor at the University of Arizona School of
Journalism and an authority on indigenous peoples who studies issues of tribal journalism
and press rights, examined newspaper articles by tribal journalists that discussed views
about freedom of expression to see whether they practice rhetorical sovereignty, which he
defines as the right of indigenous peoples to represent themselves (North America
Indigenous Peoples, 2010).
“Tribal journalists sometimes come under enormous pressure from tribal
authorities and others not to publish items that are perceived as critical or intrusive,”
Kemper stressed in his study, as cited by North America Indigenous Peoples (2010).
“They are sometimes accused of not doing what is best for their tribal group” (North
America Indigenous Peoples, 2010).
Similarly, in an international conference involving journalism and the indigenous
communities, some tribal journalists admitted that they often find themselves agonizing
over whether to publicize some news or shelve it to protect their community (Cariboni,
2008).
On the other hand, non-native journalists are often put in an untenable position: If
they go into an aboriginal story “cold,” they can both encounter resistance and get the
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
8
story wrong; but if they do their preliminary research and work to gain community trust,
they can be accused of being biased or too close to the story. Likewise, aboriginal
journalists may be limited professionally to covering “native beats” and then criticized
for their pro-native bias (Media Awareness Network, 2011).
Nor do aboriginal communities themselves always cooperate in telling their story.
“We can’t use the quick-hit approach,” says CBC journalist Loreen Pindera, as cited by
Media Awareness Network (2011). “It takes an awful lot more time to re-establish trust
with a community after they’ve been so frequently misrepresented by the media” (Media
Awareness Network, 2011).
Furthermore, the Media Awareness Network (2011) put it that:
“… the only coverage native people receive in the news media centers on political
and constitutional issues, forest fires, poverty and substance or sexual abuse.
Occasionally,
stories
about
cultural activities appear on some local
stations—but these are usually given only passing mention. And when it comes
to issues that affect all…aboriginal people are rarely, if ever, consulted.
Of course, the fundamental nature of news and news reporting is that the
bad news gets all the attention. Tragedies, conflicts and crises get reported;
success stories rarely do. But the end result is that a non-native audience may
come to the conclusion that aboriginal people are a troubled, plagued and
contentious people.
Rudy Platiel, who spent 27 years covering the aboriginal beat for the
Globe and Mail, noted that there are an “awful lot of good things happening that
are not going to get reported in the mainstream press unless somebody pushes to
get them there.”
There are a number of causes for poor reporting on aboriginal issues.
Journalists have tight deadlines and are rarely given adequate time to thoroughly
investigate issues; the gatekeepers of newsrooms and newspapers are seldom
well-versed in aboriginal affairs; and there is a dearth of experienced aboriginal
journalists.
In a 1994 study by the Diversity Committee of the Canadian Newspaper
Association, of the 41 mainstream papers surveyed (employing 2,620 reporters,
copy editors, photographers and supervisors), only four people were aboriginal.
These factors all contribute to the perpetuation of incomplete and, in some
cases, biased information. Over the years, for example, much coverage has been
given to the “tax-free” status of Canadian aboriginals—leaving many Canadians
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
9
to believe that all native people share a lucrative tax-exempt status. What is less
well known is that only those working on reserves are eligible, and the
unemployment rate in these communities is high since opportunities for work are
quite
limited.”
It is essential then, as we consider the pressures that tribal journalists endure, to
think about how tribal peoples want and deserve as much sovereignty as possible,
according to Kemper. “Those of us who practice or study tribal journalism do what we do
because we love our people. That is what I think is the native way. The issues of
sovereignty have to be decided by the indigenous peoples. Free press won’t flourish
unless indigenous peoples see it as an idea from within their cultures that can nourish and
protect those cultures” (North America Indigenous Peoples, 2010).
Kemper, as cited by North America Indigenous Peoples (2010) further argued:
“How could good journalism not be in the best interest of indigenous peoples who value
the truth and story-telling as a means of survival and prosperity?”
Definition of Terms
The following terms were defined on how they were used in the study:
Indigenous Peoples (IPs). Indigenous peoples are those who, having a historical
continuity with pre-invasion and pre-colonial societies that developed on their territories,
consider themselves distinct from other sectors of the societies now prevailing on those
territories, or parts of them. They form at present non-dominant sectors of society and are
determined to preserve, develop and transmit to future generations their ancestral
territories and their ethnic identity, as the basis of their continued existence as peoples, in
accordance with their own cultural patterns, social institutions and legal system (United
Nations–Department of Economic and Social Affairs, 2004).
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
10
In Australian communities, the IPs are referred to as “aboriginals” (Tchacos and
Vallance, 2004). In Latin America, they are called as “natives” (Chávez, 2008).
Meanwhile, Indian Americans are termed as “tribal” people (North America Indigenous
Peoples, 2011).
IP-related issue. An IP-related issue refers to a concern, topic or subject that is of
great association and relationship to IPs and their culture.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
11
METHODOLOGY
Locale and Time of the Study
The study was conducted in Baguio City (Figure 1) from December 2010 to
February 2011.
Baguio is a highly-urbanized city in Northern Luzon. Its name was derived from
the word ‘bagiw’ in Ibaloi, one of the indigenous languages of the Benguet province,
meaning “moss.” It was established by the Americans in 1900 at the site of an Ibaloi
village known as Kafagway. It was designated by the Philippine Commission as the
Summer Capital of the Philippines on June 1, 1903 and was incorporated as a city by the
Philippine Assembly on September 1, 1909.
Baguio City is at an altitude of approximately 1500 meters (5100 feet) in the
Luzon tropical pine forests eco-region conducive to the growth of mossy plants and
orchids. It is the seat of government of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and
has become the center of business and commerce as well as the center of education in
Northern Luzon.
According to the 2007 census, it has a population of 301,926.
Baguio City is likewise a home to the media industry. Community newspapers
come in wide array. Among these are the Baguio Chronicle, Northern Dispatch, SunStar–
Baguio and Zigzag Weekly. The regional offices of mainstream daily publications also
proliferate in the area, one of which is the Philippine Daily Inquirer–Northern Luzon
Bureau.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
12
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
13
Figure 1. Map showing the locale of the study
Respondents of the Study
Twenty Baguio-based newspaper journalists were purposively chosen. Staff from
the newspapers in Baguio City, which included Baguio Chronicle, Northern Dispatch,
SunStar–Baguio, Zigzag Weekly and Philippine Daily Inquirer–Northern Luzon Bureau,
served as the respondents.
The criteria in choosing the respondents were the following: they should have
background and experience in gathering and writing IP-related information, as part of
their job as journalists, from any of the communities in Benguet.
There were five respondents from Baguio Chronicle, five from Northern
Dispatch, five from SunStar–Baguio, three from Zigzag Weekly and two from the
Philippine Daily Inquirer–Northern Luzon Bureau.
Data Collection
Personal interview was employed in gathering data. A questionnaire was used as a
guide in conducting the interviews.
Data Gathered
The respondents’ practices in covering IP-related information in the communities
of Benguet were documented. The challenges they encountered in covering such issues
from the communities were likewise identified, as well as the IP-related issues they
covered in Benguet.
Moreover, the study noted the respondents’ profile.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
14
Data Analysis
The gathered data were consolidated, tabulated and analyzed using frequency
counts and percentages. Likewise, they were presented in descriptive and narrative form.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
15
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Respondents’ Profile
Age. Table 1 presents the respondents’ profile. Based on the table, the age range
of six of the respondents fall under the 27-30 category. The 35-39 age bracket came next,
with five respondents. This was followed by the 19-22 and 23-26 brackets, respectively.
This implies that majority of the respondents are young adults, according to Erik
Erikson’s (1975) classification.
Number of years of journalism practice. Most respondents’ (55%) average
number of years of journalism practice, which involves covering of IP-related issues, falls
under the 1-5 years range. Those (25%) with 6-10 years of experience ranked second.
Meanwhile, those (5%) with 11-15 years and 16-20 (5%) years of journalism practice
listed the least frequency. Ten percent of the respondents have practiced journalism
involving covering of IP-related issues in a span of more than 20 years. This indicates
that most of the respondents do not have lengthy-time experience in covering IP-related
issues in the communities of Benguet.
Ethno-linguistic affiliation. Ethno-linguistic group is a concept that has been used
to define a human social unit that shares the same language and culture and uses the same
criteria to differentiate itself from other social groups (Jenkins, 2010).
Seventy-five percent of the respondents are of Cordilleran descent while 15% are
non-Cordillerans. Meanwhile, 10% said they came from the mixture of Cordilleran and
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
16
non-Cordilleran ancestry. This means that most of the respondents are indigenous people
themselves.
Table 1. Respondents’ age range, number of years of journalism practice and ethno-
linguistic affiliation
CHARACTERISTICS FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
N=20
(%)
Respondents’ Age Range
Age Bracket
19 – 22 years old
3
15
23 – 26 years old
2
10
27 – 30 years old
6
30
31 – 34 years old
1
5
35 – 39 years old
5
25
40 – 43 years old
2
10
44 – 48 years old
1
5
TOTAL 20
100
Respondents’ Number of Years of Journalism
Practice Involving Covering of IP-Related
Issues
Range
1 – 5 years
11
55
6 – 10 years
5
25
11 – 15 years
1
5
16 – 20 years
1
5
21 years – above
2
10
TOTAL 20
100
Respondents’ Ethno-linguistic Affiliation
Cluster
Cordilleran 15
75
Non-Cordilleran 3
15
Mixed (Cordilleran and non-
2 10
Cordilleran)
TOTAL 20
100
IP-Related Issues Covered by the Respondents
in Benguet
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Majority of the respondents said they have covered issues on mining (Table 2). A
staff of Northern Dispatch noted that during her visit to Mankayan to cover the mining
exploration in the area, she observed that most groups of people in the place were against
Table 2. IP-related issues covered by the respondents in Benguet
IP-RELATED ISSUE
FREQUENCY
(N=20)
Mining exploration
16
Cultural festivals (Adivay, Bendiyan Festival, Ibaloi Day)
15
Ancestral land claims
14
Justice system
12
Culture and tradition commercialization
9
History (of a particular IP community)
6
* multiple responses
the mining exploration in the community because of its destructive effects. Another staff
of the same publication added that majority of the people in Bakun were against mining
activities, too.
The opposition can be linked to the belief of IPs that land is life and that it is
sacred. As Cordilleran Chieftain Macliing Dulag put it, “land is grace that must be
nurtured” (The Mountain Collegian, 2009).
Issues on cultural festivals and celebrations were likewise covered by most of the
respondents. This result supports the growing concern of documenting Indigenous
Knowledge, Systems and Practices (IKSPs) in IP communities, may it be in print or in
other forms of media. As emphasized by the Philippine Clearing House Mechanism for
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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Biodiversity (2009), an information-sharing site under the Department of Environment
and Natural Resources (DENR), the documentation of these IKSPs is of great importance
in understanding the norms of conduct, customs and traditions, belief systems and
institutions of indigenous peoples in the Philippines.
Equally, most of the respondents covered the celebration of the Bendiyan festival
in Kabayan. Some visited La Trinidad, Tuba and Itogon regarding cultural celebrations
such as Adivay and Ibaloi Day, among others.
Concerns on ancestral land claims were also mostly covered. Behind this is the
idea that central to indigenous ways of life is the persistence of traditionally-owned lands
and resources and on this basis, hunting, gathering, agriculture and handicrafts are
prevalent modes of livelihood. Private ownership, in its common understanding,
especially of land, does not largely exist. Individual ownership of land was confined to
irrigated rice terraces constructed elaborately by some of the indigenous peoples in the
Cordillera region. All other ancestral lands and all their resources are traditionally
considered community property (Cordillera People’s Alliance–Minority Rights Group,
2010).
Meanwhile, Gary Pekas, 47 years old, staffwriter of Zigzag Weekly, covered
issues on the justice system of Bakun and the issue on the violation of rights in Bokod
and Mankayan.
Likewise, a staff of Baguio Chronicle visited Tuba, Kapangan, Itogon and
Buguias to cover issues on the commercialization of culture.
History of some of the communities in Benguet was likewise written about by the
respondents.
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The said issues are greatly connected to the very culture of the IPs, as the
respondents noted.
Respondents’ Practices in Gathering IP-Related
Information from the Communities of Benguet
Background. The respondents recognized that the basic practices in gathering
information in journalism apply to both mainstream and IP communities with some noted
differences (Table 3). According to the respondents, having a background on the IP-
related issue being covered is significant in understanding the issue itself. Adam Borja,
associate editor of Baguio Chronicle, said that one should do a background check on the
subject. “Do this so that you would know what to say and what to do when you are in the
area, especially if you do not have enough knowledge on the issue,” he said.
Maurice Malanes, who writes for the Philippine Daily Inquirer–Northern Luzon
Bureau, averred that a journalist should have a strong understanding and context of the
history of IP communities. “It will give substance to your reportage,” he said.
He claimed that if a journalist truly understands the issue he is writing about, he
helps clarify things with the readers, considering the issue on the misunderstanding of the
IPs.
Entry. In going to the indigenous communities of Benguet to cover IP-related
issues, most of the respondents mentioned that they go with IP advocate groups. “There
are instances wherein an IP group would visit a certain community. Take the chance of
going with them because at least they have a background of that certain community,” a
respondent said.
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
20
Malanes, who started practicing journalism in the 1990s, said that going with
advocate groups to IP communities builds a part of networks and linkages. He said that
advocate groups come in various political leanings, particularly. “Learn to deal with such
Table 3. Respondents’ practices in gathering IP-related information from mainstream and
IP communities
ACTIVITY RESPONDENTS’
RESPONDENTS’
PRACTICES IN
PRACTICES IN
GATHERING IP-
GATHERING IP-
RELATED
RELATED
INFORMATION FROM
INFORMATION FROM
THE MAINSTREAM
THE COMMUNITIES IN
COMMUNITIES
BENGUET
Research/
Do a research/have a Do a research/have a
Background
background on the topic.
background on the topic.
Entry
A journalist can go directly
Go with IP advocate groups
to the target community.
who visit IP communities.
Identifying
A journalist can directly go
Consult the elders before
informants
to the concerned person/s
interviewing the concerned
for interview.
person/s.
Data-gathering Directly
approaching
and
Conform to the ‘pinikpikan’
asking the concerned and ‘tapuey’ traditions of the
person/s can be done.
IPs in communicating,
among others.
A journalist can use English
Speak in a particular IP
or Tagalog in
community’s native
communicating with the language. For those who do
person/s involved.
not know any, learn some.
Observe the basic Observe procedures or
journalism protocol in considerations set by the
acquiring and handling elders particularly in
documents.
acquiring needed
documents. At the same
time, observe the basic
journalism protocol in
acquiring and handling
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
21
documents.
Always ask permission Always ask permission
before interviewing and before interviewing and
taking pictures.
taking pictures.
Exit
A journalist can just leave
Visit the elders before
after gathering needed leaving the community.
information.
different clusters. It will further your skill in gathering information,” he said. The IP
groups’ advocacy might also be of help to the story, he added.
Identifying informants. One feature that puts the distinction between covering
issues in IP communities and non-IP communities is the fact that IPs have their own
IKSPs, according to most of the respondents. Borja, who has been in the journalism
profession for 20 years, agrees to this principle. “When you interview a mainstream
Filipino, you can just go directly to the person/s involved and get that/those person/s’
statement. In IP communities, a journalist should always consider visiting the elders,” he
said.
Majority of the respondents noted the importance of visiting and consulting the
community elders before conducting any interview with the party involved.
The respondents put it that elders have the first-hand knowledge on most of the
issues that concern the IPs and that IP communities give high regard for them. This will
also serve as a sign of respect for them, according to the respondents.
The premise on the high regard for elders as the holders of first-hand knowledge
involving IP-related issues supports the statement of Walker (1993) that the elders “have
the wisdom, the knowledge and the spirit. Elders play an extremely important role in
indigenous families as role models, care providers and educators. We rely strongly on
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
22
them as key decision-makers within families. They are the people we hold the greatest
respect for because many of them went through so much. Their guidance is often
illustrated through everyday life and their teachings are often done subconsciously; we
follow, we observe and we go on to teach our own families. It is through our elders that
the spirit as indigenous people is kept alive.”
An instance illustrating this is the custody of ancestral lands. Traditional leaders
or elders act as guardians of such ancestral lands, as put by the Cordillera People’s
Alliance–Minority Rights Group (2010).
The respondents also mentioned that the community elders could refer possible
informants for the issue.
Data-gathering. One unique feature of gathering information from IP
communities is the unhurried mode of disclosing information from the natives. According
to Malanes, an effective way of gathering information from IPs is the “story-telling”
approach. “Talk to them the normal way, like you’re just telling stories. Do not speak and
act like you are a journalist because the possibility is that they will be intimidated. As a
result, they won’t be too comfortable sharing information with you,” he elaborated. On
the other hand, in mainstream communities, Malanes said that the people are more at ease
in giving information.
The story-telling manner of communicating with the IPs helps the journalist
establish pleasant rapport with them. “It’s massively important that the IPs will say,
“Maid sabsabali (We all belong). Develop the skill of relating with other people. It helps
a lot,” Malanes noted.
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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Meanwhile, one common traditional practice among the IPs when entertaining
someone who is not from their community is the butchering of native chicken or
‘pinikpikan’ or drinking of rice wine or ‘tapuey.’ This outlines their respect and warm
welcome for their visitor. In this consideration, the respondents said that conforming to
such tradition enormously helps in effective data-gathering.
“When you show them respect, they tend to be more comfortable in giving
information,” said a respondent. Delmar Cariño, who writes for the Philippine Daily
Inquirer–Northern Luzon Bureau and whose IP-related journalistic practice spans in over
three decades, noted that conforming to such tradition also gives the journalist the feeling
of belongingness with the community, therefore making the information-gathering more
effective, easier and smoother.
Another distinguishing feature in covering issues in IP communities is what
Cariño called the “umbrella journalism.” According to Cariño, a journalist will only go to
a particular IP community when an IP-related issue is to be covered. “The journalist goes
not very often to that IP community; unlike in a mainstream community where the people
are often involved in the covering of issues by the journalists since the journalists
themselves are based in mainstream communities. This is one thing that makes
information-gathering in IP communities different from that of mainstream
communities,” he said.
Likewise, speaking in a particular IP community’s native language hugely helps
in effective information-gathering. This will slim down chances of misinterpretation of
ideas, words and terms. The respondents stressed that for those who do not have a wide
knowledge on a particular IP community’s dialect, it is advantageous if they learn the
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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dialect, even a few basics of it. “It will narrow down the chances of the IPs being
misunderstood, eliminating their doubt that they might be misunderstood just because the
journalist doesn’t clearly understand a certain term,” added a respondent from Baguio
Chronicle.
Zigzag Weekly’s Pekas also emphasized that at times, proper procedures in
acquiring needed documents should be firmly followed especially if some instructions or
considerations are set by the elders.
Consent. All interviewees should be informed of the interview beforehand and
that their consent should be sought first. This was greatly emphasized by the respondents.
“Ask your interviewees if they are willing to bring a particular piece of information out.
It’s part of courtesy,” mentioned Malanes.
This principle should also be done in taking pictures. A journalist should always
ask permission from the involved person/s. “It is a cardinal rule,” Borja emphasized. This
disputes the practice of other photographers that subjects are to be taken in a tricky
situation and that it should not be known by the subject being taken to avoid a scripted-
type picture. “However, many trained photojournalists emphasized that asking
permission could still create a picture that is “unscripted” to view. That is where the skill
of the photographer would come in,” added Borja.
Exit. The respondents noted that it is still important to consult the elders before
leaving the community. “For the mainstream communities, you can just leave after the
data gathering. In an IP community, you should visit the elders back to show your
courtesy and respect for the community. This way, you can always go back to the
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of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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community and gather information more easily since you already established an
understanding with them and have shown them respect,” explained Malanes.
It is argued that respect for persons and cultures is a critical element in effective
information-gathering. Respect is reflected in each of the steps undertaken to gather and
analyze the data, validate the findings and present outcomes in ways which communities
find comprehensible, accessible and facilitative of their growth and continued
development (Tchacos and Vallance, 2004).
Respondents’ Practices in Writing
IP-Related Information from the
Communities of Benguet
Interpretation. The respondents affirmed that verifying the facts with the person/s
involved or with those who have deep understanding on the issue is a big deal in the
article’s credibility.
According to the respondents, the interpretation of IP-related data needs to be
done in the presence of the person/s involved on the issue (Table 4). SunStar–Baguio’s
Mary Ann Cacdac put it that in a non-IP community, a journalist can interpret the
gathered information even without the presence of the person/s involved. However, in an
IP community, a reporter should do the interpretation with the person/s involved. One
reason for this, according to the respondents, is the interconnection of most IP-related
issues.
Additionally, the respondents said that a journalist should be sensitive enough to
understand and interpret any IP-related information that he/she is handling or writing
about. Yu (2010) warns journalists that some problems are real, notwithstanding the
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
26
causes and roots of those problems; others are exaggerations with little foundation. Those
negative images may be a result of ignorance or maybe because of prejudice and bias.
Angling and framing. It is significant to always present both sides of the story
involving an IP-related issue, according to the respondents.
Table 4. Respondents’ practices in writing IP-related information from mainstream and
IP communities
ACTIVITY RESPONDENTS’
RESPONDENTS’
PRACTICES IN
PRACTICES IN
WRITING IP-RELATED
WRITING IP-RELATED
INFORMATION FROM
INFORMATION FROM
THE MAINSTREAM
THE COMMUNITIES IN
COMMUNITIES
BENGUET
Interpretation
A journalist can interpret
The interpretation of the
the information gathered information gathered
even without the person/s
needs to be done in the
involved.
presence of the person/s
involved.
Angling and framing
A journalist can present Always present all
only one side of the story.
possible sides of the story.
Always balance the report.
Observe the basic Observe the basic
journalism rules in handling
journalism rules in
sources.
handling sources.
Verify the data story before
Verify the data story
publishing.
before publishing.
Be aware of the rules of the
Be aware of the rules of
court.
the court.
Publishing
Observe the basic Observe procedures or
journalism protocol in considerations set by the
acquiring and handling elders particularly in
documents.
acquiring needed
documents. At the same
time, observe the basic
journalism protocol in
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
27
acquiring and handling
documents.
Cariño said that in framing a mainstream issue, presenting only one side of the
story is at times acceptable. On the other hand, in handling an IP-related story, he noted
that it is always vital that a journalist should always consider presenting both sides of the
issue. This is because IP-related issues are most of the time interconnected, as Cariño put
it.
Specifically, on the issue of small-scale mining in Bakun, two faces of argument
surfaced, that of the pro-mining and anti-mining groups. “What I did was I interviewed
the group who supported the proposal on small-scale mining. Then I went to get the
reasons of the “pro” group for going against the scheme,” explained a respondent from
Northern Dispatch. She added that in such situations, careful reporting is very important
and that a journalist should be careful enough to be able to present both sides.
According to Malanes, the parties involved tend to be critical on the presentation
of the story. “For example, on the issue of mining in Itogon, in my experience, when I
wrote about the negative effects of mining explorations, the corporation operating the
industry scrutinized the article and there were not-so-good comments. But when you do
not put the negative effects of mining in your story, the affected IPs are likely to criticize
you for not putting it. That is how critical taking sides is. The point is learn to always
balance your story; present both sides,” he said.
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of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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In this context, Plater (1993), as stated by Yu (2010), said that for journalists,
adequate journalistic education is the key to understanding indigenous people and to a
balanced and objective reporting on indigenous people. The Royal Commission has
recommended that “media courses containing a significant component relating to
aboriginal affairs are needed to properly reflect the social context in which journalists
work.”
Moreover, journalists should refrain from using the elements of oddity which
often leads to sensationalized stories, as the respondents emphasized. The respondents
recognize the fact that sensationalism indeed sells. However, they also recognize that IPs
have the right to be represented and interpreted fairly and rightly. The bottom line is that
journalists should never sensationalize stories, according to the respondents. They
stressed that getting the story right means always balancing voices and presenting sides
accurately.
Philippine Daily Inquirer–Northern Luzon Bureau’s Malanes asserted that instead
of focusing on the element of conflict, a more effective alternative in writing the story is
the proposal of solutions to the conflict presented. In this way, the writer helps unravel
the chains that held the IPs in stereotype for so long, as Malanes pointed out.
Sources. The respondents noted that most of the usual practices employed in
writing a story from the mainstream communities are similarly done to that of an IP-
related issue. One of these is the handling of source.
In writing the article, one should consider withholding the name/s of source/s if
requested. “Respect your sources. Ask them if they want their names to be published or
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not. Based on my experience, some indigenous groups are not used to being interviewed
and cited,” revealed a staff of Northern Dispatch.
Journalists’ interaction with sources sometimes involves confidentiality, an
extension of freedom of the press giving journalists a legal protection to keep the identity
of a source private even when demanded by police or prosecutors. The right is based on
the recognition that without a strong guarantee of anonymity, many people would be
deterred from coming forward and sharing information of public interests with journalists
(Anonymous, 2008).
Cacdac also added, “Disclose your sources to your editor so that if anything
happens, someone else knows who your source/s is/are.”
Verification. SunStar–Baguio’s Cacdac stressed that a journalist should always
verify, clarify and analyze the data gathered from indigenous communities especially that
most of the IP issues are complicated and interrelated or interconnected. “Verify, verify,
verify. Ask those who have an extensive background on the subject or issue. You do not
want to be sued for libel,” she added.
There is always the threat of libel facing those journalists, who, through
carelessness, ignorance or malice, make inaccurate statements in their reports that reflect
the character or reputation of an individual or group (Anonymous, 2011).
Another reason for constant verification is the sensitivity of most IP-related
issues. Cariño explained, “Some information, while they are of public interest, are
considered taboo among the IPs and that publishing these information is just not
acceptable.” This is where the issue on the rules of the court would also come in.
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of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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Cacdac’s remark strengthens the basic fact that governs the practice of
journalism: Verify the information before you publish. This is a must to all journalists, a
rule that needs to be observed at all times as journalism books and journalism professors
always emphasize.
Rules of court. Baguio Chronicle editor Borja noted, “Know the rules of the court
– particularly on the issues of contempt of court and libel – including that of the
Constitution.”
Borja, who is also taking a degree in law, elaborated that in most cases, the “see-
saw” between the freedom of the press and the [IP-related] issues’ critical nature is in
motion. According to him, journalists are bound by the law, therefore, the freedom of the
press is not absolute. On the other hand, the extent of confidentiality or sensitivity of an
IP-related issue, for that matter, is likewise limited by the Constitution. He said that
journalists should be aware of this.
Generally, Borja, Cariño and Malanes all agree that it takes a higher degree of
sensitivity and special skill in covering a story in IP communities. “In the mainstream
communities, you do the typical way of covering a story. You can have their statements
published right away. This is because they quite know the nature of mass media, they are
accustomed to it, they are accustomed to what is common around. But in gathering
information from IP communities, there’s a sort of special kind of treatment of the story –
starting from interviewing your sources, accessing pertinent documents and finally
writing the story,” backed Cariño.
Tchacos and Vallance (2004) affirmed this assertion: “Aboriginal people have
different cultural and language background from mainstream society and therefore there
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is a need to develop models of inquiry that recognize these cultural differences and are
sensitive.”
Cariño further stressed that a journalist must be constantly guided by the
journalist’s code of ethics.
Respondents’ Challenges in Gathering and
Writing IP-Related Information from
the Communities of Benguet
Table 5 presents the challenges the respondents encountered in gathering and
writing IP-related information from the communities of Benguet. Accordingly, in some
cases, when roads are closed, the IP-related story is likely to be scrapped or unfinished.
Hence, the search for the “real story” is hindered. Connected to this is the matter on the
deadline of the article and the distance of the community where the issue is to be covered.
The respondents put it that if the place is too far and remote, the possibility is that the
article will not be finished before its deadline of submission.
Specifically, in cases of typhoons and other natural phenomena, the respondents
noted that needed information from involved IP communities could not be accessed due
to roads which are shut down.
Malanes said that as a result, such hindrance sternly affects the story. “The story
would end up half-finished, if not scrapped. It would lack depth, heightening the
possibility of misinterpretation,” he said. The Media Awareness Network (2011) supports
this: “Journalists have tight deadlines and are rarely given adequate time to thoroughly
investigate issues.”
In addition, most of the respondents mentioned that some IPs do not trust how the
journalists handle reports that involve them (IPs). They fear that the story might be
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
32
framed using the element of oddity, making the story sensationalized. “They presume that
they may be misinterpreted or misunderstood. This is particularly true to journalists who
do not have detailed knowledge about IPs,” Pekas noted.
Table 5. Respondents’ challenges in gathering and writing IP-related information from
the communities of Benguet
CHALLENGE INSTANCE/S
Place inaccessibility/road problem
In some cases, particularly during
typhoons,
the
road/s going to the
community where an issue should be
covered cannot be reached due to its/their
closure.
Deadline and distance of the place
The deadline of submission of the [IP-
related] article makes it possible for it not
to be continued [to be written] or finished
due to the long distance of the place
involved.
Indigenous peoples’ wariness toward
Some IP groups assume the possibility of
the media
being misquoted or misunderstood by the
journalists. Others pre-judge the journalists
as doing a press release for a certain
company or political figure.
Struggle in feeling belongingness
Journalists who do not feel that they belong
and are welcome to the IP community
where an issue is being covered find it hard
to gather information from that community.
Language barrier
In some instances, some journalists’ lack of
knowledge on the IPs’ local dialect often
leads to misinterpreted, inaccurate or
inappropriate terms.
Cultural barrier
Some IP members avoid going against their
fellow IP members for the sake of
maintaining community harmony. On the
other hand, the culture of ‘inayan’ (fear of
going against the norm) sometimes leads to
incorrect information being disclosed.
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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Bridging the IPs and
Some offices/institutions feed the IPs with
the government
wrong information, making the later
misled. In some instances, the
government’s alleged poor understanding
on the rights of IPs makes the situation
worse.
This was echoed by Yu (2010): “Many journalists are not well-versed in
indigenous affairs.” Fueling the worse scenario is what Yu (2010) described as the
journalists’ competition for readers and viewers. Many journalists believe they are
compelled to focus on conflict and violence – two of the distinct elements in writing a
story in the mainstream media. This created the gap between the journalists and the IPs
(Media Awareness Network, 2011).
Cariño disclosed that there are times that IP communities judge a journalist as
doing publicity for a certain company or political figure. “This is one challenge
journalists gravely face,” he said.
Malanes’ experience also validates this finding: “When I once visited Atok to
cover an IP-related issue, I was mistakenly identified as a representative of the Bureau of
Internal Revenue (BIR). It was because I happened to ask some income-related questions.
And when people are asked with those kinds of questions they tend to be passive. So you
see in here the role judgment and presumption significantly play.”
A factor that contributes to such scenario is what Malanes termed as the “research
fatigue.” According to him, it is the trend that occurs when researchers, journalists or
survey representatives flock to a community to inquire for the same information. “They
arrive to the idea that people from the mainstream communities sort of ask questions over
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
34
and over again. Kumbaga nakukulitan sila sa paulit-ulit na mga tanong (It’s like they’re
fed up with the same questions),” said Malanes.
More importantly, the concept of “umbrella journalism” aggravates the IPs’
wariness toward the media, according to Cariño. “Since the journalists do not always visit
IP communities, possibility is that IP-related stories do not have strong, deep foundation
when published,” he explained.
Similarly, Cariño and Pekas recognize that the IPs’ wariness toward the media
fuels the journalists’ struggle in feeling belongingness in the IP community where the
issue is being covered. “You find it hard to talk to them and gather information
comfortably because you do not feel that you belong in their community,” said Cariño.
Moreover, Pekas noted the role of culture itself in gathering and writing IP-related
information from IP communities. He said that with the strong traditionalism among the
IPs, going against a fellow IP member would reflect as an act of antagonism against the
existing cultural norm. “You rather choose not to speak or act against your fellow IP
member because you want to maintain good community relationships,” Pekas said.
On the other hand, he acknowledges the fact that amid the strong cultural bond,
IPs sometimes go off track from their culture. “Sometimes they also betray their own
people. Of course they have their reasons, but the point is that the culture of ‘inayan’
(fear of going against the norm) is now slowly disintegrating. As a result, some IP
members give incorrect or inaccurate information to the journalist,” Pekas added. This
statement of Pekas is ironic to what Walker (1993) pointed out that a dominant
characteristic of the indigenous family is the sense of kinship, the feeling of family
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
35
togetherness, the ability to rely on each other, and the creation of spiritual bonding which
helps to give hope and strength to indigenous people.
According to a Northern Dispatch respondent, what is worse is that they [IPs] are
fed with wrong information by non-government organizations (NGOs) and political
organizations by conducting forums.
On the issue of mining in Benguet, according to a Baguio Chronicle respondent,
some agencies conduct forums on the positive effects of mining. “Consequently, the
government’s weak efforts in advancing the rights of the IPs, such as passing of
memorandums and the like in favor of the IPs’ concerns, make the IPs less heard,
prompting the breach between the IPs and the government that is supposed to be the
frontliner in championing the rights of the IPs,” agreed Pekas.
In this connection, De Vera (2010) argued that very limited development
activities in support of the Ancestral Domain Management Plans have been implemented.
“The inability of the government to fully implement the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act
(IPRA) in order to address the problems and concerns of the indigenous communities is
rooted in conflicting policies, capacity gaps and a questionable commitment to empower
indigenous communities. The urgency of the problem is underscored by overt
encouragement on the part of government of the entry of large-scale commercial
investment into traditional lands to install extractive industries which include open-pit
mining, palm oil plantations and industrial forest farms,” he stressed.
In this situation, the journalist has the choice to make the two meet halfway for a
responsible and productive societal landscape, as Pekas said.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
36
The power of journalists is undeniable. Any attempt to solve problems on
aboriginal communities should be done in partnership with and the consent of the
aboriginal community (Tchacos and Vallance, 2004).
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
37
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study was conducted to document the practices of Baguio-based newspaper
journalists in covering IP-related issues in the communities of Benguet. Specifically, it
intended to determine the profile of the respondents; to identify the IP-related issues
covered by the respondents in Benguet; to identify the practices applied by the
respondents in gathering and writing IP-related information from the communities of
Benguet and to identify the respondents’ challenges in gathering and writing IP-related
information from the communities of Benguet.
The researcher used personal interview as instrument. The study was conducted
from December 2010 to February 2011.
The respondents’ mostly-covered IP-related issues in Benguet have something to
do with the IPs’ culture.
There were noted differences between covering issues in mainstream
communities and that of IP communities.
The respondents put it that it is extremely important for a journalist to consult the
elders and conform to the traditions of IPs for effective information-gathering.
The respondents’ challenges in covering issues in IP communities of Benguet
have something to do with deadline of the article, topography, IPs’ wariness toward the
media and culture itself.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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Conclusions
The following conclusions were drawn based on the findings of the study:
1.
Majority of the respondents are indigenous people themselves. However,
they do not have lengthy-time experience in covering IP-related issues in the
communities of Benguet.
2.
Most of the issues covered by the respondents in IP communities have
something to do with the communities’ culture.
3.
There were noted differences between covering issues in mainstream
communities and that of IP communities.
4.
In covering IP-related issues in IP communities, the respondents
constantly involve the elders in gathering and writing the stories.
5.
A specialized type of skill is needed in covering IP-related issues as most
of these issues are sensitive and are sometimes interrelated or interconnected.
6.
Baguio-based newspaper journalists who cover IP-related issues in
Benguet are sometimes challenged by issues on the province’s topography, IPs’ distrust
on the media, language barrier, cultural barrier and the growing gap between the IPs and
the government.
Recommendations
The following are recommended:
1.
Other researchers may want to focus on the possible solutions to the
challenges identified by the respondents.
2.
Other researchers may want to cover the broadcast aspect of the study.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
39
3.
Other researches may want to consider focusing on the study’s concept on
other IP communities in the region as practices vary from one IP community to another.
4.
Findings of the study should be written in monograph to be shared with
community development workers and the IPs themselves.
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
40
LITERATURE CITED
ANONYMOUS. 2008. Journalist Journal. Retrieved March 20, 2011 from http://jou-
rnalistjournal-emike.blogspot.com/2008/01/legal-status-in-journalism.html
ANONYMOUS. 2010. Journalism Ethics and Standards. Retrieved September 16, 2010
from http://www.answers.com/topic/journalism
ANONYMOUS. 2011. Broadcast News: Writing, Reporting and Producing.
Retrieved March 15, 2011 from http://books.google.com.ph/books
CARIBONI, D. 2008. Indigenous Reporting: Between Activism and Professionalism.
Retrieved September 16, 2010 from http://ipsnews.net/news.asp?idnews=44903
CHÁVEZ, F. 2008. Indigenous Journalists Plant a Seed. Retrieved September 16, 2010
from http://ipsnews.net/news.asp?idnews=44903
CORDILLERA PEOPLE’S ALLIANCE–MINORITY RIGHTS GROUP. 2010.
Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines. Retrieved October 1, 2010 from
www.hreoc.gov.racial_discrimination/media_guide
DE VERA, D. 2007. Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines: A Country Case Study.
Retrieved October 1, 2010 from http://www.iapad.org/publications/ppgis/devera
ip phl.pdf
ERIKSON, E. 1975. Childhood and Society. USA: Penguin. Pp. 255
JENKINS, O. 2010. Ethnolinguistic. Retrieved March 15, 2011 from
http://orvillejenkins.com/ethnicity/ethnolinguistic.html
MEDIA AWARENESS NETWORK. 2011. Aboriginal People in the News. Retrieved
March 20, 2011 from http://www.mediaawareness.ca/english/issues/ stereotyping/
aboriginal_people/aboriginal_news.cfm
MINDFRAME NATIONAL MEDIA INITIATIVE. 2011. Reporting for Indigenous
Australians. Retrieved January 8, 2011 from http://mindframe-media.powersites.
com.au/site/index.cfm?display=84365
NORTH AMERICA INDIGENOUS PEOPLES. 2010. ‘Love Of People’ Drives Free
Expression Among Tribal Reporters. Retrieved September 16, 2010 from
http://indigenouspeoplesissues.com/index.php?option=com
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
41
PHILIPPINE CLEARING HOUSE MECHANISM FOR BIODIVERSITY. 2009.
Documenting IKSPs in IP Communities. Retrieved March 2, 2011 from
http://www.denr.gov.ph/
SCOTT, L. 2006. Melbourne Journal of Politics: Negative Exposure: A Snapshot of
ATSIC in Australia’s Mainstream Print Media. Retrieved March 20, 2011 from
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb6386/is_31/ai_n29310963/
TCHACOS, E and R.J. VALLANCE. 2004. Research in Aboriginal Communities:
Cultural Sensitivity as a Prerequisite. Australia: The University of Melbourne. Pp
1.
THE MOUNTAIN COLLEGIAN. 2009. Volume 38 Issue 1. Baguio City: Rianella
Printing Press.
UNITED NATIONS–DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL AFFAIRS.
2004. Workshop on Data Collection and Disaggregation for Indigenous Peoples:
The Concept of Indigenous Peoples. New York, USA: UN. Pp. 2
WALKER, Y. 1993. Aboriginal Family Issues. Retrieved February 28, 2011 from http://
www.aifs.gov.au/institute/pubs/fm1/fm35yw.html
YU, Y. 2005. Australia – New Country, Old History. Retrieved October 1, 2010 from
http://www.fulbright.com.au/events-and-media/documents/YanminYu.pdf
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Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
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APPENDICES
APPENDIX A
Questions for the Interview
I. RESPONDENT’S PROFILE
Name (optional): ________________________________________________
Age: ______________ Civil Status: _________________ Sex: _______
Highest educational attainment:
( ) elementary
( ) secondary/high school
( ) tertiary/college (course): _______________________________________
( ) vocational (specify): ___________________________________________
Ethno-linguistic affiliation (if any): __________________________________
II. JOURNALISTIC PRACTICE PROFILE
*Position in the publication: _______________________________________
*Number of years of journalism practice involving covering of IP-related
issues: _________________________________________________________
*Benguet communities visited [in covering IP-related issues]:
______________________________________________________________
1. What IP-related issue/s was/were you able to cover in the communities of
Benguet?
_______________________________________________________________
2. In conducting interviews with IP communities, is there a standard set of
procedures or protocol that you follow?
_______________________________________________________________
How do you usually do the interview? Is it individually or by group?
_______________________________________________________________
How do you approach the person or party involved in a story? Do you directly
look for him or do you approach the particular community’s barangay captain
or council of elders?
_______________________________________________________________
3. In writing an IP-related story, is there a standard set of procedures or protocol
that you follow?
_______________________________________________________________
Are there factors or elements that you consider in angling a story?
_______________________________________________________________
4. What type of source/s do you usually use in getting/writing a story? Primary
or secondary? If such, what is/are this/these?
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
43
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Is there a set of codes or procedures that you follow in handling your sources
(like the withholding of names and confidentiality issues)?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
5. In paper trails, how do you access or acquire documents related to your story?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Is there a set of rules that you follow?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
6. What are your positive experiences regarding the gathering/writing of IP-
related information in the communities of Benguet?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
How about the negative ones? What are the challenges that you encountered
in covering IP-related issues in the communities of Benguet?
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
7. What advice can you give your co-media practitioners as well as the young
journalists in the gathering/writing of IP-related stories specifically in
Benguet?
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
44
APPENDIX B
Letter for the Interview
Republic of the Philippines
BENGUET STATE UNIVERSITY
La Trinidad, Benguet
College
of
Agriculture
DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION
Development Communication Society
GOALS and OBJECTIVES
12 January 2011
The Department exists to:
1. Provide instruction for the
ADAM O. BORJA
acquisition of re
levant knowledge
Associate Editor
and skills essential to develop ment
Baguio Chronicle
communication work;
2. Provide training ground for
development communicator
s who
will uphold the ideals and standards
Sir:
of instruction, research and
extension in the fields of
development journalism,
Greetings of peace!
community broadcasting and
educational communication;
3. Create innovative alternative
I am a fourth year student of Bachelor of Science in Development Communication of
comm
unication strategies and
Benguet State University. Presently, I am conducting a thesis titled “Journalists and
opportu
nities that shall draw the full
Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio‐Based Newspaper
potentials of learners and
Journalists in Covering IP‐Related Issues in the Communities of Benguet.”
practitioners of print, radio, and
television.
In this regard, please allow me to conduct interviews with your staff who have experience
4. To conduct researches or
field
and background in covering stories in the communities of Benguet. Rest assured that all
studies; and
information that will be obtained from the interviews will be strictly used for research
5. To formulate and implement
purposes only.
extension and development
programs.
Thank you very much and God bless.
Office Address:
Sincerely yours,
2nd floor, College of Agri culture
Complex, Benguet State University,
RONALYN T. BANAKEN
La Trinidad, Benguet
09284152631
Email Address:
devcombsu@yahoo.com.ph
Noted:
FILMORE Y. AWAS
Adviser
Journalists and the Indigenous Peoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-
Based Newspaper Journalists in Covering IP-Related Issues in the Communities
of Benguet / RONALYN T. BANAKEN. 2011
Document Outline
- Journalists and the IndigenousPeoples: Practices and Challenges of Selected Baguio-Based Newspaper Journalists inCovering IP-Related Issues in the Communities of Benguet
- BIBLIOGRAPHY
- ABSTRACT
- TABLE OF CONTENTS
- INTRODUCTION
- REVIEW OF LITERATURE
- METHODOLOGY
- RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
- SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
- LITERATURE CITED
- APPENDICES