BIBLIOGRAPHY GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F....
BIBLIOGRAPHY
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013. Perception of Karao Indigenous
People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region. Benguet State University, La
Trinidad, Benguet.
Adviser: Hilario C. Perez, MSc.
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted November 2012 at Karao, Bokod, Benguet to determine
if the respondents are aware of the Third Organic Act; To identify the advantage and
disadvantage of Autonomy, to determine the problems that may be encountered if the
organic act is ratified and identify some external factors that may affect the perceptions
and attitudes of the respondents towards autonomy.
A total of 40 respondents from barangay Karao were interviewed. The respondents
had relatively low level of family income, some of the respondents were literate they had
the same cultural tradition and ethnic affiliations.
The respondents did not differ significantly in their perceptions and attitudes to the
granting of a Cordillera Autonomy. The respondents felt that the Republic act No. 9566
was effective and that it was for the interest of the people living in the area.
The respondents expressed that most of the pressing problem in the Cordillera’s
today were economic, political and unemployment and they perceived the solution to these
problems was a closer attention to be given by the National Government.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Respondents with lower higher educational attainment and lower income had the
tendency to accept the proposed autonomy, while those with lower educational attainment
and older in age had tendency to reject the granting of autonomy.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Profile of the Respondents
This study includes a survey of the demographic and economic profile of the
respondents. A discussion on their sociological profile is also presented in relation to their
degree of influence to perceptions and attitude.
Age. Table 1 shows that the respondents have ages ranging from twenty to sixty
(20 – 60) years and above. The greatest number belonged to forty one to fifty (41 – 50)
years old, thirty five percent (35%) followed by thirty one to forty (31 – 40) years old, fifty
one to sixty (51 – 60) years old, sixty one (61) and above seventeen percent (17%) and
twenty to thirty (20 – 30) years old twelve percent (12%). The data shows that most of the
respondents were adults.
Gender of Respondents. The number of the female respondents was fifty-two point
five percent (52.5%) slightly higher than male respondents with forty-seven point five
percent (47.5%).
Level of Education. All the respondents were literate. Majority finished tertiary
level and some even finished graduate studies. This makes them generally aware of the
issue at hand like level of understanding and openness to the issue of cordillera autonomy.
Economic Activity. The table shows that thirty-seven point five percent (37.5%) of
the respondents are government employees and thirty percent (30%) are students.
Seventeen point five percent (17.5%) are farmers and fifteen percent (15%) are working in
the private sector.
Below is a tabular presentation of the aforementioned data.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Table 1. Profile of the respondents
PROFILE
NUMBER OF RESPONDENTS
MEAN
Age
18-30
5
12
31-40
7
17
41-50
14
35
51-60
7
17
61-70
7
17
TOTAL
40
100
Gender
Female
21
52.5
Male
19
47.5
TOTAL
40
100
Level of Education
Elementary
1
2.5
High School
9
22.5
College
19
47.5
Graduate School
11
27.5
TOTAL
40
100
Occupation
Government Employee
15
37.5
Private Employee
6
15
Farming
7
17.5
Unemployed/student
12
30
TOTAL
40
100
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Level of Awareness to Autonomy
Awareness to autonomy. The level of awareness of the respondents towards
autonomy is shown in table 2, ninety-seven percent (97%) majority of the respondents are
aware about the autonomy compared to two percent (2%) who have not heard of autonomy.
The mean response of the respondents was highest for their perception that the granting of
Cordillera Autonomy would help preserve and develop the communal social order and
economic system.
Understanding of what autonomy means. Forty three percent (43%) strongly
believe that autonomous governance from the national government will promote unity,
economic and social development in the region. Twenty three percent (23%) of the
respondents believe that an autonomous region would promote unity and coordination
among the people, both from the lowlands and the highlands, seventeen percent (17%) of
the respondents believe that full separation from the government will ensure the region’s
internal power and the return of ancestral lands and domain in Karao and the whole
Cordillera in general. Fifteen percent (15%) of the respondents were undecided about it.
Awareness in the renewed move for autonomy. Eighty two percent (82%) of the
respondents were aware of the renewed autonomy while seventeen percent (17%) of the
respondents have not heard of the new proposed Cordillera Autonomy.
The respondents learned about the source of information on Autonomy through:
Radio/TV. Fifty nine percent (59%) more than half of the respondents got their
information on autonomy from the radio/TV. This mode is a good source of information.
This implies that people who are tuned to radio/TV could get information about Autonomy,
and are more aware of the issue because of their access to the information. Another
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
implication of this result is about the power of the media with regard to information
dissemination and its role in ensuring the awareness of the people about important matters
that affects them.
Newspaper/brochures. Forty one percent (41%) of the respondents got the
information from reading newspapers/brochures. The lesser number would be implicated
on the fact that the access to broadsheets and newspapers is actually limited in the area.
Daily newspapers or even weekly, for that matter, rarely reach the area, the few papers that
reach the respondents usually come from the city when they happen to visit.
Press conference/forums. Six percent (6%) of the respondents were informed about
autonomy from attendance in press conferences and forums that were actually conducted
in the area. The low result could either mean that press conference or forums were rarely
conducted in the area or that only a few are actually interested and bother to attend. The
first implication would in a way violate what was mandated in the constitution about the
need for regular forums and information dissemination to the public, in order to keep them
knowledgeable about it, and give them basis on which to base their decisions to. The second
implies that the matter on autonomy, to the layperson is actually of no relevance to them,
and that they are not interested because they feel that with or without autonomy, life goes
on.
Local leaders. Twelve percent (12%) of the respondents learned of the proposed
autonomy from the local leaders. Local leaders, holding a respectable status in the area are
sources of information to the local community. This implies that, for the government to
actually tap the public, local leaders must be used and oriented even made properly aware
and knowledgeable about the issue because they are the ones who actually deal with the
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
people. Local leaders are important in making the public knowledgeable and aware of the
programs of the government, hence, they must be used in informing the public, in order to
disseminate information better.
Word of mouth. Thirty one percent (31%) of the respondents have heard of
Autonomy by word of mouth. This posts a problem because the information might be
wrong and distorted. Wrong and distorted information when fed to the community usually
develop a strong negative attitude. A favorable attitude is developed only if the information
is objective and honest. Negative attitudes usually make the people narrow-minded and
close minded, oftentimes going against before trying to understand first. Narrow-minded
and close-minded people are the hardest to educate, because even if they do not actually
have factual basis for their reluctance, they still do. They resist necessary changes and
refuse to accept what is actually beneficial to them.
Posters/notices. Three percent (3%) of the respondents have been informed through
posters/notices in barangay halls or Bulletin boards. This implies that some people actually
reads and wants to be aware of what the government has in store for them. The fact that
they read notices and posters means that they are interested in seeking more information,
otherwise, they would not bother to even glance at them.
Period of awareness. Forty percent (40%) of the respondents just recently learned
about the autonomy. While twenty percent (20%) of the respondents learned about it on
2011. Forty percent (40%) of the respondents learned about autonomy in the previous years
when cordillera autonomy was first proposed. The lack of information implies that there is
a need to exert more efforts to ensure that the public and the people are aware of Autonomy
Bill.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Awareness to House Bill 5595. Forty five percent (45%) of the respondents have
heard of the house bill 5595 (Organic act) on this year (2012) while fifty five percent (55%)
of the respondents have not heard of it due to lack of information. In general, respondents
are aware of the proposed Bill, though derived from different sources, the overall impact
of this awareness results is that, the Ikarao’s are concerned and are actually willing to
participate in the move for Autonomy Pro or Anti, their stand does not matter, what is
significant, respondents or Ikarao’s in general are concerned about the events that would
eventually change their lives. This is interesting in the sense that ikarao’s are no longer
passive participants who only wait for what’s given to them. They are more vocal about
their opinions, and are more responsive to social events and change.
Table 2. Level of awareness
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
(%)
Awareness to Autonomy
Aware (yes)
39
97
Not aware (no)
1
3
TOTAL
40
100
Understanding Autonomy
Self-governance
18
44
Better coordination of
9
23
development projects
Full separation from the
7
18
government
Undecided
6
15
TOTAL
40
100
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Table 2. continued…
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
(%)
Awareness in the renewed move for
Autonomy
Aware (yes)
33
82
Not aware (no)
7
18
TOTAL
40
100
Source of information
19
59
Radio/TV
13
41
Newspaper/Brochures
2
6
Press conference/Forum
4
12
Briefings/Meetings
0
0
In school
10
31
Word of mouth
1
3
Posters/Notices
*Multiple responses
Period of Awareness
16
40
2012-present
8
20
2011
16
40
Earlier years – 2010
TOTAL
40
100
Awareness to House Bill 5595
Aware (yes)
18
45
Not aware (no)
22
55
TOTAL
40
100
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Perception Towards Autonomy
Autonomy will foster unity in the Cordilleras. Fifty seven percent (57%) of the
respondents agree that autonomy is the best solution to the problems in Cordillera such as
tribal differences. However, twenty two percent (22%) of the respondents disagree. Twelve
percent (12%) of the respondents strongly agree while seven percent (7%) of the
respondents are undecided. Results show a positive attitude and perception towards a more
unified cordillera. This belief implies an unspoken hope to develop a more harmonious
community while culturally and traditionally speaking, Cordillerans are now more open-
minded as to consider something and look into the more positive aspects of it. A hope for
more unified Cordillera also implies that the Cordillerans are now more aware of their
identity and heritage, as a result of such they hope for unity not only to assert their rights
but also the willingness to protect them. A more unified Cordillera is a stronger Cordillera,
one who knows it’s worthy and dignity.
Preservation and development of social and economic order. Sixty five percent
(65%) of the respondents agrees that autonomy will help promote communal, social and
economic order, while twelve percent (12%) who strongly agreed, seventeen percent (17%)
disagree and five percent (5%) of the respondents are undecided. The high percentage
showing that autonomy will help preserve and develop a more orderly economy and society
in the Cordilleras shows the need for it, as shown by the unspoken clamor for its
development. This positive belief that autonomy will bring a more orderly social and
economic, order shows that autonomy is reviewed in a positive manner.
Eradication of graft and corruption. More than half or fifty seven percent (57%) of
the respondents disagree that graft and corruption will be eradicated through autonomy,
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
while twenty five percent (25%) who agreed so, and the remaining ten percent (10%) are
undecided. Seven percent (7%) strongly agree that autonomy will eradicate graft and
corruption. Results show that while respondents believe on the positive effects of
autonomy, eradication of graft and corruption is seen as a problem. This implies two things,
at least. One that respondents are skeptic toward the eradication of graft and corruption and
two, that graft and corruption cannot be eradicated. That is already an accepted fact of life.
It is interesting to note that people are resigned to the belief that graft and corrupt is already
a natural human trait. Its eradication is not a matter of a possibility; it simply is a normal
thing. That being, efforts must be done to change this belief otherwise, people will no
longer see the need for its total eradication.
Independent utilization of natural resources. Forty seven percent (47%) of the
respondents agrees followed by twenty seven percent (27%) who disagree; fifteen percent
(15%) strongly disagree while 10% of the respondents are undecided on whether or not
autonomy will enable the Cordillerans to utilize their own natural resources independently.
Majority of the respondents agreed that, through autonomy, Cordillera will become more
independent when it comes to the utilization of its natural resources, again this result shows
a more positive outlook towards autonomy and also the view of the people that as
Cordilleran’s they are more capable of protecting their national interest, as well as utilizing
it a manner more beneficial to them.
More revenue benefits. More than half or sixty percent (60%) of the respondents
agreed that autonomy would bring in more revenue which will help develop the social and
economic status of the cordillera, only few disagreed for the reason that the revenue would
not be used properly to develop the Cordilleras.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Land returns. Forty seven percent (47%) of the respondents disagrees followed by
thirty seven percent (37%) agrees, ten percent (10%) strongly agree and five percent (5%)
of the respondents are undecided when asked if autonomy will enable the local government
to recover lands from non-Cordillerans. Majority believes that autonomy will in a way,
make the Cordillera more Cordilleran by virtue of the idea that Cordilleras should own
Cordilleran land. This view may be attributed to the need to assert identity and heritage,
however, it may also open to negative effects such as regionalism and discrimination in the
end.
Promotion of discrimination. Thirty two percent (32%) of the respondents disagree
followed by twenty two percent (22%) who agrees, and ten percent (10%) are undecided
when asked if autonomy will lead to discrimination. One third of the respondents recognize
that autonomy might promote discrimination towards other ethnicities and races in the
assertion of Cordilleran identity. Hence, while autonomy is being pushed, efforts to
maintain humility and harmony with other tribes and ethinicity must also be taken into
consideration however it is believed that such would not happen because Cordilleran’s do
not discriminate and are open to living with other people regardless of their ethnic origin.
Internal power struggle. Fifty percent (50%) of the respondents agree followed by
twenty two percent (22%) who disagrees, seventeen percent (17%) of the respondents
strongly agree and ten percent (10%) are undecided with regard to internal struggle that
would lead to violence and corruption. Half of the respondents believe that internal power
struggle will still exist despite autonomy. Implying that power struggle is a part of human
nature, respondents were not too realistic in the sense that, autonomy is not seen as an
answer to everything that despite autonomy human nature will always stand on its own.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
General Perceptions
Sentiments about the setting up of an autonomous region. Forty two percent (42%)
of the respondents agrees followed by twenty seven percent (27%) disagrees, seventeen
percent (17%) strongly agree and twelve point five percent (12.5%) of the respondents are
undecided. This question aims to determine whether Cordilleran’s are willing to become
autonomous or not. The results showed that less than 50% are actually willing to, which
would signify reluctance to change or contentment with the present political situation of
the region for that matter.
Readiness for autonomy. Forty five percent (45%) of the respondents disagreed
while twenty seven percent (27%) who strongly agreed, twenty two percent (22%) of the
respondents agree and five percent (5%) of the respondents are undecided. The results
imply that while open to autonomy, the need to be prepared for the consequences and the
changes that autonomy will give should be taken into consideration. As of now,
respondents believe that, more preparations should be undertaken in order to fully prepare
the Cordillera’s for autonomy.
Baguio City and Benguet Province as part of autonomy. Forty percent (40%) of the
respondents agreed followed by thirty percent (30%) disagreed, twenty five percent (25%)
strongly agree and five percent (5%) of the respondents re undecided. Less than half of the
respondents agreed that Baguio and Benguet should be part of the autonomous region
because of the natives who live here have the same culture and ethnic affiliation. This also
implies the fact that these two places are recognized as the center of the region and that
their inclusions to the autonomy would be a vital factor to its success.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Perceived problems of the Cordilleras. Eighty five percent (85%) of the respondents
stated that lack of employment is the most pressing problem followed by seventy two
percent (72%) who said political problem, seventy percent (70%) economic problem and
two percent (2%) others (tribal feuds) other than mentioned lack of educational facilities
and good local leaders are some problems facing the Cordilleras today. Despite being a
proud race, Cordilleran’s believe that they are also affected by the current social standing
of the country, and that as Filipinos themselves, they are not exempted from these.
Table 3. Perception of the respondents toward autonomy
Strongly
Agree
Disagree Undecided
PERCEPTIONS
Agree
F
%
F
%
F
%
F
%
Autonomy will Foster Unity in the 05
13
23
58
09
23
03
06
Cordilleras
Preservation and Development of
5
13
26
65
7
18
2
4
Social and Economic Order
Eradication
of
Graft
and 03
08
10
24
23
58
4
10
Corruption
Independent Utilization of Natural 06
15
19 47.5 11 27.5
4
10
Resources
More Revenue Benefits
6
15
24
60
7
18
3
7
Land Returns
4
10
15
38
19
47
2
5
Promotion of Discrimination
4
10
19
22
23
58
4
10
Internal Power Struggle
7
18
20
50
9
22
4
10
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Table 3 continued…
Strongly
Agree
Disagree Undecided
PERCEPTIONS
Agree
F
%
F
%
F
%
F
%
General Perceptions
Sentiments About the Setting 7
18
17
43
11
27
5
12
Up of an Autonomous Region
Readiness for Autonomy
11
28
9
22
18
45
2
5
Baguio City and Benguet 10
25
18
40
12
30
2
5
Province as part of Autonomy
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Perceived
Problems
of
the
Cordilleras
Lack of Employment
37
85
Economic Problem
28
70
Political Problem
29
73
Others (Tribal Feuds)
1
3
* Multiple Responses
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study sought to determine the perceptions and attitudes of Barangay Karao
Municipality of Bokod towards the proposed Cordillera Autonomy in relation to the
development of the region.
The average age of the respondents was between 41 to 50 years old. Majority of the
respondents were female and almost all of the respondents were literate or able, attend
school at one point in their life or able to achieve sufficient education. The respondents
expressed that the inclusion of Barangay Karao, Bokod and Benguet Province in the
Cordillera Autonomous Region would decrease discrimination form the highlanders to the
lowlanders. Respondents agree that the objectives of setting up an Autonomous Region in
the Cordilleras would be generally positive, however the negative consequences that would
possible arise are: (a) that the existence of power struggle among the politicians would still
exists or would become more pronounces, (b) that the people of the Cordilleras are still not
ready for an Autonomy as of the moment, there is still a need for further preparation and
commitment, (c) and that Autonomy is not the ultimate solution to the problems of the
Cordillera people. Instead respondents suggested that a keener attention from national
government, creation of more rural development to benefit the rural people, and the
elimination of red tape in the implementation of projects and removal of bad personnel in
government offices as well as bad politicians would actually be a better choice and more
plausible option.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
On the other hand, respondents were informed of the proposed autonomy primarily
through the radio, brochures and pamphlets, and through word of mouth. The general
implication of this result would be; media plays a great part in informing the people of the
things that interests them. Because of this, the government should use this medium more if
it wants to further educate its people in matters that would benefit and affect them.
However, word of mouth in information dissemination plays a significant and crucial
factor. The problem with word of mouth is the accuracy of the information being passed,
information passed by word of mouth eventually get distorted and exaggerated along the
way. People who have different interests might use this avenue to their advantage and
prejudice others. While word of mouth plays an important part, it must also be regulated;
otherwise, the true purpose of a rather important venture would only fall at the mercy of
dishonest and deceitful people.
Conclusions
Based on the findings, the following conclusions are formulated:
1. Generally, the respondents had a positive attitude on the issue of granting
Autonomy to the Cordillera Region specifically the inclusion of Benguet to the proposed
Autonomy;
2. All the respondents from the different sectors still need for further as to
preparation and commitment towards the importance, objectives and consequences of the
proposed autonomy;
3. The socio-economic background showed a very strong influence on the idea of
setting up a Cordillera Autonomous Region. Older respondents had positive attitudes
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
towards the idea of setting up an Autonomous Region. Respondents with higher
educational level revealed positive perceptions and attitudes towards Autonomy;
4. The other factors like the ethnic affiliation, mass media, politicking also showed
role effect towards the formation of perceptions and attitudes to the interested persons; and
5. Conclusively, the findings portray that majority of the respondents had positive
perceptions towards the inclusion of Benguet to the Cordillera Autonomy and to the setting
up of an Autonomous region in general.
Recommendations
On the basis of the findings and conclusions of the study, the following
recommendations are presented:
1. There should be a continuous information drive on Cordillera Autonomy so
people will have a clear understanding of what autonomy is;
2. The advantages and disadvantages of autonomy should be presented to the
people; and
3. All available sources of communication media should be used for information
campaign on Cordillera Autonomy.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
LITERATURE CITED
ANUDON, P. 2005. The Culture of the Ikarao of Bokod: Its influence to Social Life and
Education 2005-2006. Unpublished MS Thesis. Baguio Central University. Baguio
City. p. 8.
AN-TIEN. V.C. 1971. Pagbabagong Dangal: Indigenous Psychology and Cultural
Empowerment. Pugad Lawin Press. P. 18.
AQUINO, C. S. 1987. Legacy-Corazon Aquino. Retrieved on February 24, 2013 from
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/cory_aquuino.
ELLIN, J. 2007. Analysis on Indigenous People. P. 42.
HOLLANDER, E. P. 1976. Principles and Methods of Social Psychology. New York:
University Oxford. Pp 19-26.
KIMEU, D. 1990. Perceptions and attitudes of Baguio City and Benguet Provinces towards
the Cordillera autonomy: a development perspective.
KITWOOD, T. M. 1969. On Values and Value System. Educational Research. 18:3.
REPUBLIC ACT 6766. An Act Providing for an Organic Act for the Cordillera
Autonomous Region (1989). Retrieved on February 24, 2013 from
www.cordillera.gov.ph.
REPUBLIC ACT 8438. An Act to Establish the Cordillera Autonomous Region (1997).
Retrieved on February 24, 2013 from www.cordillera.gov.ph.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013. Perception of Karao Indigenous
People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region. Benguet State University, La
Trinidad, Benguet.
Adviser: Hilario C. Perez, MSc.
ABSTRACT
This study was conducted November 2012 at Karao, Bokod, Benguet to determine
if the respondents are aware of the Third Organic Act; To identify the advantage and
disadvantage of Autonomy, to determine the problems that may be encountered if the
organic act is ratified and identify some external factors that may affect the perceptions
and attitudes of the respondents towards autonomy.
A total of 40 respondents from barangay Karao were interviewed. The respondents
had relatively low level of family income, some of the respondents were literate they had
the same cultural tradition and ethnic affiliations.
The respondents did not differ significantly in their perceptions and attitudes to the
granting of a Cordillera Autonomy. The respondents felt that the Republic act No. 9566
was effective and that it was for the interest of the people living in the area.
The respondents expressed that most of the pressing problem in the Cordillera’s
today were economic, political and unemployment and they perceived the solution to these
problems was a closer attention to be given by the National Government.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Respondents with lower higher educational attainment and lower income had the
tendency to accept the proposed autonomy, while those with lower educational attainment
and older in age had tendency to reject the granting of autonomy.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Profile of the Respondents
This study includes a survey of the demographic and economic profile of the
respondents. A discussion on their sociological profile is also presented in relation to their
degree of influence to perceptions and attitude.
Age. Table 1 shows that the respondents have ages ranging from twenty to sixty
(20 – 60) years and above. The greatest number belonged to forty one to fifty (41 – 50)
years old, thirty five percent (35%) followed by thirty one to forty (31 – 40) years old, fifty
one to sixty (51 – 60) years old, sixty one (61) and above seventeen percent (17%) and
twenty to thirty (20 – 30) years old twelve percent (12%). The data shows that most of the
respondents were adults.
Gender of Respondents. The number of the female respondents was fifty-two point
five percent (52.5%) slightly higher than male respondents with forty-seven point five
percent (47.5%).
Level of Education. All the respondents were literate. Majority finished tertiary
level and some even finished graduate studies. This makes them generally aware of the
issue at hand like level of understanding and openness to the issue of cordillera autonomy.
Economic Activity. The table shows that thirty-seven point five percent (37.5%) of
the respondents are government employees and thirty percent (30%) are students.
Seventeen point five percent (17.5%) are farmers and fifteen percent (15%) are working in
the private sector.
Below is a tabular presentation of the aforementioned data.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Table 1. Profile of the respondents
PROFILE
NUMBER OF RESPONDENTS
MEAN
Age
18-30
5
12
31-40
7
17
41-50
14
35
51-60
7
17
61-70
7
17
TOTAL
40
100
Gender
Female
21
52.5
Male
19
47.5
TOTAL
40
100
Level of Education
Elementary
1
2.5
High School
9
22.5
College
19
47.5
Graduate School
11
27.5
TOTAL
40
100
Occupation
Government Employee
15
37.5
Private Employee
6
15
Farming
7
17.5
Unemployed/student
12
30
TOTAL
40
100
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Level of Awareness to Autonomy
Awareness to autonomy. The level of awareness of the respondents towards
autonomy is shown in table 2, ninety-seven percent (97%) majority of the respondents are
aware about the autonomy compared to two percent (2%) who have not heard of autonomy.
The mean response of the respondents was highest for their perception that the granting of
Cordillera Autonomy would help preserve and develop the communal social order and
economic system.
Understanding of what autonomy means. Forty three percent (43%) strongly
believe that autonomous governance from the national government will promote unity,
economic and social development in the region. Twenty three percent (23%) of the
respondents believe that an autonomous region would promote unity and coordination
among the people, both from the lowlands and the highlands, seventeen percent (17%) of
the respondents believe that full separation from the government will ensure the region’s
internal power and the return of ancestral lands and domain in Karao and the whole
Cordillera in general. Fifteen percent (15%) of the respondents were undecided about it.
Awareness in the renewed move for autonomy. Eighty two percent (82%) of the
respondents were aware of the renewed autonomy while seventeen percent (17%) of the
respondents have not heard of the new proposed Cordillera Autonomy.
The respondents learned about the source of information on Autonomy through:
Radio/TV. Fifty nine percent (59%) more than half of the respondents got their
information on autonomy from the radio/TV. This mode is a good source of information.
This implies that people who are tuned to radio/TV could get information about Autonomy,
and are more aware of the issue because of their access to the information. Another
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
implication of this result is about the power of the media with regard to information
dissemination and its role in ensuring the awareness of the people about important matters
that affects them.
Newspaper/brochures. Forty one percent (41%) of the respondents got the
information from reading newspapers/brochures. The lesser number would be implicated
on the fact that the access to broadsheets and newspapers is actually limited in the area.
Daily newspapers or even weekly, for that matter, rarely reach the area, the few papers that
reach the respondents usually come from the city when they happen to visit.
Press conference/forums. Six percent (6%) of the respondents were informed about
autonomy from attendance in press conferences and forums that were actually conducted
in the area. The low result could either mean that press conference or forums were rarely
conducted in the area or that only a few are actually interested and bother to attend. The
first implication would in a way violate what was mandated in the constitution about the
need for regular forums and information dissemination to the public, in order to keep them
knowledgeable about it, and give them basis on which to base their decisions to. The second
implies that the matter on autonomy, to the layperson is actually of no relevance to them,
and that they are not interested because they feel that with or without autonomy, life goes
on.
Local leaders. Twelve percent (12%) of the respondents learned of the proposed
autonomy from the local leaders. Local leaders, holding a respectable status in the area are
sources of information to the local community. This implies that, for the government to
actually tap the public, local leaders must be used and oriented even made properly aware
and knowledgeable about the issue because they are the ones who actually deal with the
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
people. Local leaders are important in making the public knowledgeable and aware of the
programs of the government, hence, they must be used in informing the public, in order to
disseminate information better.
Word of mouth. Thirty one percent (31%) of the respondents have heard of
Autonomy by word of mouth. This posts a problem because the information might be
wrong and distorted. Wrong and distorted information when fed to the community usually
develop a strong negative attitude. A favorable attitude is developed only if the information
is objective and honest. Negative attitudes usually make the people narrow-minded and
close minded, oftentimes going against before trying to understand first. Narrow-minded
and close-minded people are the hardest to educate, because even if they do not actually
have factual basis for their reluctance, they still do. They resist necessary changes and
refuse to accept what is actually beneficial to them.
Posters/notices. Three percent (3%) of the respondents have been informed through
posters/notices in barangay halls or Bulletin boards. This implies that some people actually
reads and wants to be aware of what the government has in store for them. The fact that
they read notices and posters means that they are interested in seeking more information,
otherwise, they would not bother to even glance at them.
Period of awareness. Forty percent (40%) of the respondents just recently learned
about the autonomy. While twenty percent (20%) of the respondents learned about it on
2011. Forty percent (40%) of the respondents learned about autonomy in the previous years
when cordillera autonomy was first proposed. The lack of information implies that there is
a need to exert more efforts to ensure that the public and the people are aware of Autonomy
Bill.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Awareness to House Bill 5595. Forty five percent (45%) of the respondents have
heard of the house bill 5595 (Organic act) on this year (2012) while fifty five percent (55%)
of the respondents have not heard of it due to lack of information. In general, respondents
are aware of the proposed Bill, though derived from different sources, the overall impact
of this awareness results is that, the Ikarao’s are concerned and are actually willing to
participate in the move for Autonomy Pro or Anti, their stand does not matter, what is
significant, respondents or Ikarao’s in general are concerned about the events that would
eventually change their lives. This is interesting in the sense that ikarao’s are no longer
passive participants who only wait for what’s given to them. They are more vocal about
their opinions, and are more responsive to social events and change.
Table 2. Level of awareness
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
(%)
Awareness to Autonomy
Aware (yes)
39
97
Not aware (no)
1
3
TOTAL
40
100
Understanding Autonomy
Self-governance
18
44
Better coordination of
9
23
development projects
Full separation from the
7
18
government
Undecided
6
15
TOTAL
40
100
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Table 2. continued…
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
(%)
Awareness in the renewed move for
Autonomy
Aware (yes)
33
82
Not aware (no)
7
18
TOTAL
40
100
Source of information
19
59
Radio/TV
13
41
Newspaper/Brochures
2
6
Press conference/Forum
4
12
Briefings/Meetings
0
0
In school
10
31
Word of mouth
1
3
Posters/Notices
*Multiple responses
Period of Awareness
16
40
2012-present
8
20
2011
16
40
Earlier years – 2010
TOTAL
40
100
Awareness to House Bill 5595
Aware (yes)
18
45
Not aware (no)
22
55
TOTAL
40
100
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Perception Towards Autonomy
Autonomy will foster unity in the Cordilleras. Fifty seven percent (57%) of the
respondents agree that autonomy is the best solution to the problems in Cordillera such as
tribal differences. However, twenty two percent (22%) of the respondents disagree. Twelve
percent (12%) of the respondents strongly agree while seven percent (7%) of the
respondents are undecided. Results show a positive attitude and perception towards a more
unified cordillera. This belief implies an unspoken hope to develop a more harmonious
community while culturally and traditionally speaking, Cordillerans are now more open-
minded as to consider something and look into the more positive aspects of it. A hope for
more unified Cordillera also implies that the Cordillerans are now more aware of their
identity and heritage, as a result of such they hope for unity not only to assert their rights
but also the willingness to protect them. A more unified Cordillera is a stronger Cordillera,
one who knows it’s worthy and dignity.
Preservation and development of social and economic order. Sixty five percent
(65%) of the respondents agrees that autonomy will help promote communal, social and
economic order, while twelve percent (12%) who strongly agreed, seventeen percent (17%)
disagree and five percent (5%) of the respondents are undecided. The high percentage
showing that autonomy will help preserve and develop a more orderly economy and society
in the Cordilleras shows the need for it, as shown by the unspoken clamor for its
development. This positive belief that autonomy will bring a more orderly social and
economic, order shows that autonomy is reviewed in a positive manner.
Eradication of graft and corruption. More than half or fifty seven percent (57%) of
the respondents disagree that graft and corruption will be eradicated through autonomy,
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
while twenty five percent (25%) who agreed so, and the remaining ten percent (10%) are
undecided. Seven percent (7%) strongly agree that autonomy will eradicate graft and
corruption. Results show that while respondents believe on the positive effects of
autonomy, eradication of graft and corruption is seen as a problem. This implies two things,
at least. One that respondents are skeptic toward the eradication of graft and corruption and
two, that graft and corruption cannot be eradicated. That is already an accepted fact of life.
It is interesting to note that people are resigned to the belief that graft and corrupt is already
a natural human trait. Its eradication is not a matter of a possibility; it simply is a normal
thing. That being, efforts must be done to change this belief otherwise, people will no
longer see the need for its total eradication.
Independent utilization of natural resources. Forty seven percent (47%) of the
respondents agrees followed by twenty seven percent (27%) who disagree; fifteen percent
(15%) strongly disagree while 10% of the respondents are undecided on whether or not
autonomy will enable the Cordillerans to utilize their own natural resources independently.
Majority of the respondents agreed that, through autonomy, Cordillera will become more
independent when it comes to the utilization of its natural resources, again this result shows
a more positive outlook towards autonomy and also the view of the people that as
Cordilleran’s they are more capable of protecting their national interest, as well as utilizing
it a manner more beneficial to them.
More revenue benefits. More than half or sixty percent (60%) of the respondents
agreed that autonomy would bring in more revenue which will help develop the social and
economic status of the cordillera, only few disagreed for the reason that the revenue would
not be used properly to develop the Cordilleras.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Land returns. Forty seven percent (47%) of the respondents disagrees followed by
thirty seven percent (37%) agrees, ten percent (10%) strongly agree and five percent (5%)
of the respondents are undecided when asked if autonomy will enable the local government
to recover lands from non-Cordillerans. Majority believes that autonomy will in a way,
make the Cordillera more Cordilleran by virtue of the idea that Cordilleras should own
Cordilleran land. This view may be attributed to the need to assert identity and heritage,
however, it may also open to negative effects such as regionalism and discrimination in the
end.
Promotion of discrimination. Thirty two percent (32%) of the respondents disagree
followed by twenty two percent (22%) who agrees, and ten percent (10%) are undecided
when asked if autonomy will lead to discrimination. One third of the respondents recognize
that autonomy might promote discrimination towards other ethnicities and races in the
assertion of Cordilleran identity. Hence, while autonomy is being pushed, efforts to
maintain humility and harmony with other tribes and ethinicity must also be taken into
consideration however it is believed that such would not happen because Cordilleran’s do
not discriminate and are open to living with other people regardless of their ethnic origin.
Internal power struggle. Fifty percent (50%) of the respondents agree followed by
twenty two percent (22%) who disagrees, seventeen percent (17%) of the respondents
strongly agree and ten percent (10%) are undecided with regard to internal struggle that
would lead to violence and corruption. Half of the respondents believe that internal power
struggle will still exist despite autonomy. Implying that power struggle is a part of human
nature, respondents were not too realistic in the sense that, autonomy is not seen as an
answer to everything that despite autonomy human nature will always stand on its own.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
General Perceptions
Sentiments about the setting up of an autonomous region. Forty two percent (42%)
of the respondents agrees followed by twenty seven percent (27%) disagrees, seventeen
percent (17%) strongly agree and twelve point five percent (12.5%) of the respondents are
undecided. This question aims to determine whether Cordilleran’s are willing to become
autonomous or not. The results showed that less than 50% are actually willing to, which
would signify reluctance to change or contentment with the present political situation of
the region for that matter.
Readiness for autonomy. Forty five percent (45%) of the respondents disagreed
while twenty seven percent (27%) who strongly agreed, twenty two percent (22%) of the
respondents agree and five percent (5%) of the respondents are undecided. The results
imply that while open to autonomy, the need to be prepared for the consequences and the
changes that autonomy will give should be taken into consideration. As of now,
respondents believe that, more preparations should be undertaken in order to fully prepare
the Cordillera’s for autonomy.
Baguio City and Benguet Province as part of autonomy. Forty percent (40%) of the
respondents agreed followed by thirty percent (30%) disagreed, twenty five percent (25%)
strongly agree and five percent (5%) of the respondents re undecided. Less than half of the
respondents agreed that Baguio and Benguet should be part of the autonomous region
because of the natives who live here have the same culture and ethnic affiliation. This also
implies the fact that these two places are recognized as the center of the region and that
their inclusions to the autonomy would be a vital factor to its success.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Perceived problems of the Cordilleras. Eighty five percent (85%) of the respondents
stated that lack of employment is the most pressing problem followed by seventy two
percent (72%) who said political problem, seventy percent (70%) economic problem and
two percent (2%) others (tribal feuds) other than mentioned lack of educational facilities
and good local leaders are some problems facing the Cordilleras today. Despite being a
proud race, Cordilleran’s believe that they are also affected by the current social standing
of the country, and that as Filipinos themselves, they are not exempted from these.
Table 3. Perception of the respondents toward autonomy
Strongly
Agree
Disagree Undecided
PERCEPTIONS
Agree
F
%
F
%
F
%
F
%
Autonomy will Foster Unity in the 05
13
23
58
09
23
03
06
Cordilleras
Preservation and Development of
5
13
26
65
7
18
2
4
Social and Economic Order
Eradication
of
Graft
and 03
08
10
24
23
58
4
10
Corruption
Independent Utilization of Natural 06
15
19 47.5 11 27.5
4
10
Resources
More Revenue Benefits
6
15
24
60
7
18
3
7
Land Returns
4
10
15
38
19
47
2
5
Promotion of Discrimination
4
10
19
22
23
58
4
10
Internal Power Struggle
7
18
20
50
9
22
4
10
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
Table 3 continued…
Strongly
Agree
Disagree Undecided
PERCEPTIONS
Agree
F
%
F
%
F
%
F
%
General Perceptions
Sentiments About the Setting 7
18
17
43
11
27
5
12
Up of an Autonomous Region
Readiness for Autonomy
11
28
9
22
18
45
2
5
Baguio City and Benguet 10
25
18
40
12
30
2
5
Province as part of Autonomy
Frequency
Percentage (%)
Perceived
Problems
of
the
Cordilleras
Lack of Employment
37
85
Economic Problem
28
70
Political Problem
29
73
Others (Tribal Feuds)
1
3
* Multiple Responses
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study sought to determine the perceptions and attitudes of Barangay Karao
Municipality of Bokod towards the proposed Cordillera Autonomy in relation to the
development of the region.
The average age of the respondents was between 41 to 50 years old. Majority of the
respondents were female and almost all of the respondents were literate or able, attend
school at one point in their life or able to achieve sufficient education. The respondents
expressed that the inclusion of Barangay Karao, Bokod and Benguet Province in the
Cordillera Autonomous Region would decrease discrimination form the highlanders to the
lowlanders. Respondents agree that the objectives of setting up an Autonomous Region in
the Cordilleras would be generally positive, however the negative consequences that would
possible arise are: (a) that the existence of power struggle among the politicians would still
exists or would become more pronounces, (b) that the people of the Cordilleras are still not
ready for an Autonomy as of the moment, there is still a need for further preparation and
commitment, (c) and that Autonomy is not the ultimate solution to the problems of the
Cordillera people. Instead respondents suggested that a keener attention from national
government, creation of more rural development to benefit the rural people, and the
elimination of red tape in the implementation of projects and removal of bad personnel in
government offices as well as bad politicians would actually be a better choice and more
plausible option.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
On the other hand, respondents were informed of the proposed autonomy primarily
through the radio, brochures and pamphlets, and through word of mouth. The general
implication of this result would be; media plays a great part in informing the people of the
things that interests them. Because of this, the government should use this medium more if
it wants to further educate its people in matters that would benefit and affect them.
However, word of mouth in information dissemination plays a significant and crucial
factor. The problem with word of mouth is the accuracy of the information being passed,
information passed by word of mouth eventually get distorted and exaggerated along the
way. People who have different interests might use this avenue to their advantage and
prejudice others. While word of mouth plays an important part, it must also be regulated;
otherwise, the true purpose of a rather important venture would only fall at the mercy of
dishonest and deceitful people.
Conclusions
Based on the findings, the following conclusions are formulated:
1. Generally, the respondents had a positive attitude on the issue of granting
Autonomy to the Cordillera Region specifically the inclusion of Benguet to the proposed
Autonomy;
2. All the respondents from the different sectors still need for further as to
preparation and commitment towards the importance, objectives and consequences of the
proposed autonomy;
3. The socio-economic background showed a very strong influence on the idea of
setting up a Cordillera Autonomous Region. Older respondents had positive attitudes
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
towards the idea of setting up an Autonomous Region. Respondents with higher
educational level revealed positive perceptions and attitudes towards Autonomy;
4. The other factors like the ethnic affiliation, mass media, politicking also showed
role effect towards the formation of perceptions and attitudes to the interested persons; and
5. Conclusively, the findings portray that majority of the respondents had positive
perceptions towards the inclusion of Benguet to the Cordillera Autonomy and to the setting
up of an Autonomous region in general.
Recommendations
On the basis of the findings and conclusions of the study, the following
recommendations are presented:
1. There should be a continuous information drive on Cordillera Autonomy so
people will have a clear understanding of what autonomy is;
2. The advantages and disadvantages of autonomy should be presented to the
people; and
3. All available sources of communication media should be used for information
campaign on Cordillera Autonomy.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013
LITERATURE CITED
ANUDON, P. 2005. The Culture of the Ikarao of Bokod: Its influence to Social Life and
Education 2005-2006. Unpublished MS Thesis. Baguio Central University. Baguio
City. p. 8.
AN-TIEN. V.C. 1971. Pagbabagong Dangal: Indigenous Psychology and Cultural
Empowerment. Pugad Lawin Press. P. 18.
AQUINO, C. S. 1987. Legacy-Corazon Aquino. Retrieved on February 24, 2013 from
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/cory_aquuino.
ELLIN, J. 2007. Analysis on Indigenous People. P. 42.
HOLLANDER, E. P. 1976. Principles and Methods of Social Psychology. New York:
University Oxford. Pp 19-26.
KIMEU, D. 1990. Perceptions and attitudes of Baguio City and Benguet Provinces towards
the Cordillera autonomy: a development perspective.
KITWOOD, T. M. 1969. On Values and Value System. Educational Research. 18:3.
REPUBLIC ACT 6766. An Act Providing for an Organic Act for the Cordillera
Autonomous Region (1989). Retrieved on February 24, 2013 from
www.cordillera.gov.ph.
REPUBLIC ACT 8438. An Act to Establish the Cordillera Autonomous Region (1997).
Retrieved on February 24, 2013 from www.cordillera.gov.ph.
Perception of Karao Indigenous People To The Proposed Cordillera Autonomous Region |
GUINYAWAN, RAEG NOEL F. APRIL 2013