BIBLIOGRAPHY POTECTAN, JELLY PEARL F. APRIL...
BIBLIOGRAPHY
POTECTAN, JELLY PEARL F. APRIL 2012. Communication Strategies in Practicing
Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin Road, Baguio City.Benguet State University,
La Trinidad, Benguet.
Adviser: Igrelyn P. Pinos-an, BSc
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted at Barangay Asin Road, Baguio City from December 2011 to
February 2012.
The study aimed to determine the socio-demographic profile of the respondents;
determine the characteristics of Bagor as a form of communication;to determine the values
gained in the community from this practice; to identify the communication strategies used in
transmitting Bagoras a cultural practice to younger generation; to identify the changes in the
practice of Bagorin the community; and to identify the challenges encountered in practicing
Bagor.
The data were obtained through interview schedule with the Ifugao tribe and using guide
question for the key informants.
The findings revealed that Bagoris still practiced by Ifugaos until now. There are values
gained from this practice like respect for culture, respect for elders, unity, accountability,
fostering family ties, generosity, cooperation and love. The communication strategies used by
the community are instruction, observation and actual practice.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin Road,
Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
There were also perceived challenges such as religion, education, intermarriage,
migration, modernization, lack of interest of younger generation, decreased number of native
priests, and financial problem.
Recommendations derived from the study were: Further studies may also be conducted to
support and validate the findings of this study; produce a video documentation regarding Bagor
that will serve as a material that will be used by the community and other interested people since
there were no documents preserved regarding Bagor; Researchers may undergo a more in depth
study and documentation regarding other cultural practices of Ifugaos like momma
(engagement), bugwahon (transferring the dead), and carvings (one of their famous art).
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin Road,
Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Bibliograhy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
i
Abstract. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
i
Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
iii
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1
Rationale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1
Statement of the Problem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
Objectives of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Importance of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Scope and Limitations of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
REVIEW OF LITERATURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Ifugao. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Traditional Family Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Values Gained by the Community. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8
Communication Strategies Used in
Transmitting Bagor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
Challenges Encountered in
Practicing Bagor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .
12
Definition of terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12
METHODOLOGY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14
Locale and time of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14
Respondents of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Data Collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Data to be Gathered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Data Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17
RESULTS AND DISCUSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18
Socio-demographic
Profile of the Respondents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18
Characteristics of Bagor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
Values Gained in the
Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25
Communication Strategies in
Transmitting Bagor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28
Changes Encountered in
Practicing Bagor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30
Perceived Challenges Affecting
Bagor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
34
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION . . . . . . . . . .
40
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
40
Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
41
Recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
41
LITERATURE CITED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
42
APPENDICES
A. Communication Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
43
B. Interview Schedule for Respondents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
44
C. Guide Questions for Key Informant Interview . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
45
D. Photos of Interviews with Respondents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
48
1
INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Our culture serves as a trade mark that is recognized all over the world.The
culture and the values followed in a particular community display its own unique identity.
By practicing a set of rituals and traditions, the community gains a unique character and
personality, simply because of the culture of the people belonging to it. Being shared
amongst various members of a community, the language, art, and religion serve as the
major symbols of culture, thereby distinguishing it from other cultures in the society.
Furthermore, it is learned and passed on from the older generations to the newer ones,
thereby keeping the culture alive and fresh.
Over the past few years, there has been a dramatic increase in interest concerning
theroles of indigenous knowledge in participatory approach to sustainable development.
Such traditional knowledge is often passed down through generations orally and seldom
in any form of documentation (Serrano, 2006).
Many older generations still have and are keepers of their respective traditional
knowledge, among the indigenous tribes that maintained some of their cultures are the
Ifugao. In the Ifugao family, the child is the primary element for the family’s existence.
The children are treasured because of their role in the perpetuation of the family and
kinship group. As the children grow, it is the duty of the parents to impart to them the
tribal knowledge of a well regulated Ifugao life. All important stages in the life of an
Ifugao require corresponding ritual. One of their rituals is called Bagor. It is welcoming
the arrival of a new baby in a family. This arrival is made more special by the ceremony
being held to welcome the child to the family, to society and to religious communities.
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This is a celebration done a week after the mother has given birth. Within that week,
sheis not allowed to eat any kind of vegetable until Bagorhas ended.
Interestingly,
Bagorstill exists in some parts of Baguio specifically at Barangay
Asin Road, a place known to be inhabited by Ifugao people. In fact, the community
practices the said ritual up to now.
Now, there is a great concern that such knowledge may soon be lost. This is due
to changing lifestyles, priorities and the availability of modern amenities, resulting in
diminishing dependence of the younger generation on the traditional and indigenous
knowledge of their elders or communities and also the biggest contributor is the so called
modernization.
Thus, attention should be given on the proper usage or ways to communicate this
traditional knowledge in order to protect, develop, and sustain this kind of culture and
values imparted. For if properly utilized, traditional knowledge can bring much benefit
and develop the community. More so, it keeps the indigenous community alive.
Also, there were literatures discussing the different practices or traditions of
Ifugao but not particularly for Bagoras well as the communication strategies used in this
practice, thus, this study came about.
Statement of the Problem
The study aimed to answer the following questions:
1. What is the socio-demographic profile of the respondents?
2. What are the characteristics of Bagor as a practice?
3. What are the values gained by the community from this practice?
4. What are the communication strategies used in transmitting Bagorto the
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younger generation?
5. What are the changes in the practice of Bagorin the community?
6. What are the challenges encountered in practicingBagor?
Objectives of the Study
Generally, the study aimed to determine the communication strategies in
Transmitting Bagor as a Cultural Practice
Specifically, the study:
1. Determined the socio-demographic profile of the respondents;
2. Determined the characteristics of Bagoras a form of communication;
3. Determined the values gained by the community from this practice;
4. Identified the communication strategiesused in transmittingBagorto the
younger generation;
5. Identified the changes in the practice of Bagorin the community; and
6. Identified the challenges encountered in practicing Bagor
Importance of the Study
Results of the study may benefit the community by recognizing the need toprotect
and sustainBagoras a cultural practice. The younger generation’s knowledge regarding
Bagor may enlighten them as well as may substantiate the importance of transmitting this
culture.
It will also provide information not only for the people in the community but for
other communities who are interested to understand the said practice.
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Findings may be used as reference of researchers with related field study as well
as other people who are interested to know about Bagor.
Scope and Limitation
This study focused on how the cultural practice Bagoramong Ifugaos in Asin
Road isbeing retained, practiced and how values can be reflected. Thus, the outputs that
the respondents providedwere the data and information that came from the interview.
Photos were collected from the people who performed or practiced Bagor.
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REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Ifugao
The
word
Ifugaoas defined by Andres (2004), is derived from the term
Ipugowhich means from the hills. Ifugao province is situated in the Cordillera Mountains
of Northern Luzon. Its geographic location was instrumental in the Ifugaos’ for
developing their own culture and beliefs. Ifugao is known for the Banaue rice terraces,
comparable to any wonders of the world. Inhabiting their rugged terrains of the exclusive
Cordillera mountain ranges of Central Luzon with their centuries old beliefs and
practices, they developed a distinct culture which, until lately has repulsed outside
influences.
In addition, Ifugao are of Malay stock and their language is Austronesian (Malay
or Polynesian); as is that of their neighbors, but they have developed a number of cultural
characteristics that set them apart. Ifugao social organization is based almost exclusively
on kinship. Each individual is the center of a kinship circle which extends to the third
cousin, and these units were all important in the feuds and headhunting activities that
formerly prevailed (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2007).
Traditional Family Practices (Child birth)
Birth is usually an occasion everyone welcomes as they speculate over the baby’s
gender, name and later which parent or uncle or aunty the baby takes after. In rural areas
most women give birth at home. The placenta buried beneath the house, often with an
object symbolizing what the parents hope the child will grow up to be. In the cities, this
practice is prohibited by the health authorities (Cavendish, 2002).
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Thus, there are rites performed at the start of every phase in man’s life as
according toDulawan (2001). The rites are performed by a native priest called mumbaki.
The mumbaki must have knowledge of the pedigrees of the person for whom the baki is
performed as he has to involve their ancestors of the least to the 4th generation ascending,
inviting them to join the rites and act as mediator or intermediaries’ to the gods. Not a
single right is performed without the initial invocation of ancestors. Hence, in the
Ifugao’s religious life, knowledge of pedigrees is the most important since all custom
laws are supported by pedigrees.
Goda (2002) stated that when the baby is born, the husband has to push sharpen
bamboo sticks with ginger into the four corners of the roof that are believed to prevent
the attack of evil anito. Also, he sets some ginger inside the room where the mother and
new baby stay. It is believed that the ginger has special powers to drive away the evil
spirits. After three days, the mother and the new baby have to take their first bath at the
entrance of the house. Then water they use should not be taken from the river. The
husband has to get water from the irrigation system for one month for his wife. It is
prohibited for him to go to the forest during the ritual seclusion. After one year, they
practice the Pyla-ang ritual to celebrate the birth of the baby. In this ritual, the expenses
are shouldered by both sides of a couple and they exchange some goods. From the
husband’s side, they present female goods like woven skirts, belts, an iron spatula for
weeding, and a digging stick to clean the forest for slash and burn agriculture. In the same
way, the wife’s side prepares male goods such as blankets, a sword and spear, and a G-
string as a gift to her husband. Also, in some mumbaki will attend this ritual. The
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obligations of the couple are equal and the main purpose of this ritual is to affirm the tie
of the couple and their relatives by exchanging goods.
Moreover, after delivery, a knotted runo plant called pudong is placed at the door
of the house. This is a sign that no visitors are allowed to enter the house until a
sacrificial rite called among is performed. At this rite, the baby is given a name which is
usually that of an uncle, aunt, or grandparent. Several rites intended for the healthy
development of the child are performed. Rituals are always attended by some offering.
Chickens, pigs, dogs, and carabaos and in some places ducks, are ritually sacrifices
according to the occasion and then eaten. There is also the recitation of myths, as well as
occasional singing, drinking, and dancing according to the occasion (Daulog, 1989).
The Tingguians of Abra on the other hand, Weygan (2009) presented that the
gipas or Sikkiis a birth rite performed for the bright future of the child. After delivery the
fire is kept burning for 29 days in a shallow box beside the mother for warmth and
protection from evil spirits. On a research of Divine Word College they found out that
the most important significance of the Sikki is the naming of the child. The name is after
an ancestor, a relative who possess exceptional traits or acts that they wish the child will
inherit. The mamaltot (traditional midwife) performs the rite to a newborn baby.
According to Cole and DWC the child is placed on an inverted winnowing basket while
an old woman and man gives the name. The basket is then lifted and gently laid down
several times while the name is uttered. A pig is butchered for the ritual.
While, according to Miele (2011), after the birth, the husband should perform an
atang-atang ritual, making an offering for the benefit of the child, protecting him from
the spirits by constructing a small raft with the offerings and carrying it to the river on his
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head, visible to all of the Gods and spirits, for dispatch to the other world. A chicken or
pig sacrifice is often made, with the meat given to the family members nearby as
celebration. The placenta and other objects left over from the birth, such as suob material,
are thrown into the river.
Nowadays, the first religious ritual for a Filipino baby born in a catholic family is
into baptism. Baptism is a sacrament common to all Christian traditions. It is the
symbolic application of water to the head or immersion of the body into water and
resulting in admission of the recipient into the community of Christians. One of it is the
Infant baptism or dedication is one of the seven sacraments wherein the original sin is
said to be forgiven and washed away through ceremonial pouring or sprinkling drops of
water on their foreheads as they are baptized by the priest in the name of the Father, the
Son and the Holy Spirit. Though the child becomes member of the body of Christ, which
is the Church, but because babies cannot express their faith yet and cannot make their
vows, parents or godparents make baptism vows for the child, waiting for his coming of
age when he can personally confirm those vows, his "confirmation” (Ellgaard, 2003).
Values Gained in Culture
Values represent those things we hold important in life, such as morality, ethics,
and aesthetics. We use values to distinguish between the desirable and the undesirable.
Each person has a set of unique, personal values and a set of shared, cultural valuesand
thatthese cultural values are motivating forces behind our behaviors. Moreover, our
beliefs and values push us to hold certain attitudes, which are learned tendencies to act to
act or respond in a specific way to events, objects, people, or orientations. Culturally
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instilled beliefs and values exert a strong influence in our attitudes. Thus people intend to
embrace what is liked and avoid what is disliked (Samovar et. al., 2006).
For the Ifugaos, the knowledge of a clan’s genealogy strengthens the unity and
mutual defense among the Ifugao. Many conflicts are avoided and others are solved when
the concerned parties realize that they are of the same family origin. In addition, kinship
is the basis of all social relations. The success of one is the success of everybody in the
clan and the failure of one is the burden of all (de los Reyes and de los Reyes, 1987).
Furthermore, the culture in which we grow up molds our views of ourselves and
the world around us and maintains a connection with our ancestors and traditions. The
feeling of belonging to a group of people with whom we identify is a human need that
gets expressed by learning and cherishing one’s ethnic, religious and cultural
heritage. This identification is very important in shaping our identity.The different ethnic
identities teach all of us to value diversity and encourage us to be more tolerant and
accepting of others.These cultural traditions connect us to our ancestors and provide a
cultural treasure that connects generations to one another, providing continuity and
identification (Roher, 2012).
Communication Strategies Used In Transmitting
Bagor to Younger Generations
Communication and interaction between cultures is refers to as Intercultural
communication. Referring to the communication framework by Shannon and weaver, the
source belongs to one culture and receiver is part in another. In the context of Encoding
or Decoding, the source has encoded his message according to his cultural standard like
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language, script and values; the receiver will decode it according to his cultural
background.
As cited by Gerbe, (2007) from Jacobs et. al. (1991), in order to communicate
successfully with another culture and avoid misunderstandings, knowledge about the
receiving culture is important, because the message cannot only be expressed by words,
but also by culturally loaded non-verbal communication including gestures, images and
colours.
For the Ifugaos, knowledge of pedigrees is of paramount importance. Tribal
priests (mombaki) pass on the knowledge of a clan’s genealogy (tupon) from one
generation to the next. Indeed, some priest-experts are able to provide genealogies for ten
to eleven generations which include descendants in both lines of certain important
ancestors. Thus at an early age, children are taught the family genealogy, which may
include relatives to the tenth degree on the father’s and mother’s sides. A functional
knowledge of one’s lineage easily determines whom to invite for religious feasts and
other gatherings which require the presence of relatives. During the prestige feast (baya;
bunaya) the most knowledgeable of the clan’s genealogists identifies the people to be
invited. The hosts’ representatives (munila) go from one village to another beating their
gongs at the same time extending the invitation to the relatives-familiar and unfamiliar
(de los Reyes and de los Reyes, 1978).
Moreover, Ifugao children sleep with their parents until they are about six to ten
years of age where myths and legends are narrated to them. From these stories, they also
learn their customs and beliefs (Cordillera Schools Group, 2003).
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These then supports the saying of Serrano (2006), stating that “When an elder
dies, a library burns down” which clearly illustrates the magnitude and importance of
traditional knowledge and the need to the full participation of everyone within the
communities to document their respective traditional knowledge as their heritage.
Subsequently, Crabtree (n.d.) mentioned that as wet season ends and as summer
intervenes, “the values of society change.” People are becoming wiser and resourceful
that leads them to the invention of tools and materials perfectly significant in
communicating and/or preserving such.
Today, wire is dominantly used as medium in transmitting information according
to Mendi (n.d.), which are commonly used to transmit information through the use of the
internet that is accessible through the computer lately. He also added that we have cell
phone, radio and television where cell phone has become one of the easiest ways of
communicating with each and everyone even to distant places. He pointed out that it may
not as intimate as face to face conversation, however, it is the most practical means of
interacting. Also, television is one of the most patronized and almost available at every
homes and every establishment for entertainment and information as well. According to
him, this communication media is one of the doors to the outside world. People from the
rural communities are given the opportunity to gasps ideas from urban areas, which was
supported by Mendi (n.d.), stating that other methods of transmitting culture include
videos, instruction and folk songs
On the other hand, Faba-an (2007) mentioned in her study that book is one of the
traditional printed material and is highly patronized.
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Still, Panopio and Rolda (2000) said that the transmission of culture naturally
depends on the traits that define it. The rate of recurrence of activities of the belief
systems and religions, norms, traditions, rites, and ritual, and the like that characterizes
the culture would help the younger generation understand and appreciate the whole
complex of their culture. This is so because culture is being learned. However, it is best
learned through on its own environment.
Challenges Affecting Culture
Change is especially evident in the religious life of the Ifugaos. With the
introduction of Christianity, the basic religious beliefs and practices were altered
resulting in acculturated beliefs and rituals. Hence, it was not uncommon to see people
attending Sunday services and at the same time, remaining animistic in their way of life
and practices. As more and more people embrace Christianity, the complex rites related
to their life cycle and culture was discarded (Angiwan, 1983).
Furthermore, the process of cultural change has greatly altered the life of the
Ifugaos and it is expected that more changes would take place as they adapt their ways to
the modernizing world. With the rate of assimilation by the Ifugao group of other cultural
practices, Dulawan (2001) predicts that the Ifugao shall “slowly lose their cultural
identity as a people, the pace varying in time and place.”
One of the reasons for cultural change is that of the education according to the
Cordillera Schools Group (2003), which has introduced a totally different culture and
values that have brought about modification in social norms and way of life. With the
diminishing influenced of the unschooled shamans and other community leaders,
community leadership shifted from the elders to the educated younger generations. The
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role of the elders, the kinship group and the agamangs in the education and socialization
of the individual diminished as the school largely took over the responsibility for
education and socialization.
Besides, Cash economy has completely replaced the traditional method of
exchange such that bartering is almost unknown to the present generation. Increase
contact with traders led to the introduction of modern agricultural implements, building
materials, household utensils, and other equipment that virtually displaced their
traditional technologies (Cordillera Schools Group, 2003).
Operational Definition of terms
The following terms were conceptually defined to give clearer understanding of
the study.
Observation. Witnessing of Bagorpractice among the participants and people
involved.
Instruction. An elder, parent, or mombakitrain somebody regarding the processes
of Bagorbeing done.
Actual practice. An elder or mombaki door perform Bagorwhile people involved
are to observe the practice for learning.
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METHODOLOGY
Locale and Time of the Study
The study was conducted at Asin Road, Baguio City (Figure 1). This area was
chosen because of its suitability for the study in which majority of the Ifugaos are still
practicing Bagoruntil today.
The Barangay is one of the third biggest Barangay in land area and in population
in the entire city. It has a land area of 3.5 sq. kilometer bound on the Eastern side is San
Luis Barangay, Western Side is Barangay Tadiangan, Tuba Benguet, Northern side is
Bakakeng Norte Barangay and Southern portion is Irisan Barangay. It is politically
subdivided by eight puroks.
Asin Road Barangay is located on a rolling flat with hilly areas. It was named by
the old folks as “Asin Road” since it is the road going to Asin Hot Spring. Furthermore, it
is considered one of the Tourist Spots because of the genuine, popular woodcarving
industry in the community.
Residents of this Barangay are from Ifugao, Mt. Province and nearby lowland
provinces. Based on the Barangay Population Census (2010), it was estimated that
Barangay Asin is most occupied by Ifugaos (51%), followed by people of Mt. Province
(37%), Tagalog (5%), Ilocano (3%) and others (4%).
The study was conducted from December 2011 to February 2012.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
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Figure 1. Map of Baguio Cityshowing thelocale of the study (A)
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Respondents of the Study
The study purposively selected three Ifugao Elders who were Joseph Dominggo,
Romeo Bimmuyag and Daniel Ibatas key informants who were knowledgeable of
Bagor,and must have performed Bagor at Asin road barangay.
Aside from the key informants,fifteen respondents were chosen through purposive
sampling which included five married women and five married men who practices
Bagorat present and fiveothers who have attended the actual practiceof Bagor. This was
to further support and provide possible answers in identifying the changes, values gained,
and strategies in communicating and passing this practice.
Data Collection
Data were gathered through guide question with key informant and interview
schedule with the respondents. During the interview,Ilocowas used as a medium of
communication since it was the most convenient and most appropriate for both the
interviewee and interviewer. Further questions were asked to verify data and facts.
Photos were collected from the people who have documented the practice as
suggested by the respondents.
Data to be Gathered
The data gathered were the characteristics of Bagoras a form of
communication,values gained among the community with this practice, the
communication strategies in transmitting this cultural practice to the youngergeneration,
and the changes as well as challenges encountered in practicing the culture.
Photos
of
Bagorpractice were also collected.
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Data Analysis
The data gathered was consolidated, summarized and presented in narrative form.
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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Socio-Demographic Profile of Respondents
Among the 18 respondents, there were three Key informants who were
interviewed to explain the characteristics of Bagor.
The three key informants were Ifugao elders who have performed Bagorfor how
many years and were knowledgeable of the said practice. These were: Joseph Dominggo,
74 years old, has practiced Bagorfor 40 years; Romeo Bimmuyag, 61 years old, and has
practiced “Bagor” for 30 years. He is a Kagawad of Barangay Asin Road; and Daniel
Ibat, 60 years old, has practiced Bagorfor 34 years.
The three key informants were asked to describe Bagor; the purpose of this
practice; who performs it; and processes involved. Furthermore, they were the ones who
could tell the changes of this practice, the factors affecting it and challenges in passing
down this practice to younger generation.
Table 1 shows the socio-demographic profile of the respondents. The respondents
were characterized according to their age, sex, ethno-linguistic group, number of years in
Asin Road, educational background and civil status. The ‘n’ in this table refers to the
total number of respondents interviewed.
The table indicates that 40% of the respondents were ranging from age bracket
31-43 years old during the time of the study. Also, the table illustrates that the
respondents of the study were female 53.3% and only 46.67% were accounted as male.
Majority of the respondents (86,66%) were Ifugaos indicating that they belong to
the Ifugao ethno-liguistic group.
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Table 1. Characteristics and the socio-demographic profile of the respondents
CHARACTERISTICS
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
N=15
Age Bracket
18-30
4
26.67
31-43
6
40
57-69
5
33.33
Total
15
100
Sex
Female
6
53.33
Male
7
46.67
Total
15
100
Ethno-Linguistic Group
Ifugao
13
86.66
Ibaloi-Ifugao
1
6.67
Kankana-ey
1
6.67
Total
15
100
Years of stay in Asin Road
10-21
6
40
22-33
3
20
34-45
4
26.67
46-57
2
13.33
Total
15
100
Educational Background
College Graduate
4
26.67
College Level
4
26.67
Vocational Graduate
4
26.66
Highschool Graduate
3
20
Total
15
100
Civil Status
Married
10
66.67
Single
5
33.33
Total
15
100
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Most of them were married (66.67%) and considered as parents who have
practiced “Bagor” in the community while the other respondents (33.33%) were chosen
as the witnesses of the said practice.
In terms of educational attainment, most of them were college graduate (26.67%);
vocational graduate (26.67); have reached college level (26.66%); and the rest were high
school graduates (20%).
Furthermore, most of the respondents have stayed in Asin road for about 10-21
years (40%), followed by 34-45 years (26.67), indicating that some of them grew up in
Asin road while others have migrated there as supported by the age bracket of the
respondents.
Characteristics of Bagor
According to all the respondents,Bagor is a practice among Ifugao to welcome a
baby for whom birth is an arrival made special by the ceremony being held purposelyto
receive a child in the family, society and the community. It is a way for the Ifugaos to
show love and acceptance to the child and serves as a thanksgiving for the safe delivery
and good health of the baby. This also served as a simple gathering for the family to be
acquainted with each other as well as to have reunion other than the main purpose which
is the thanksgiving for the child (Figure 1).
In addition, all the respondentssaid that Bagoris a tradition that has been valued
by the community and this has also served as their identity being an Ifugao.
Processes involved in performing Bagor. There were preparations being done and
practices performed beforeBagor is being conducted, during and after (Table 2).
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Figure 1.Reunion with families during Bagor
First, the parents of the baby will have to prepare financially, emotionally and
physically a year or less before the expected birth of the baby. Then, theywill decide who
to invite during Bagorwhichwill then be communicated through personal invitation or
house to house. As Joel Bumey’a stated, dakami gamin timismomangi-ayabkaru ta
agkakaaruba kami lang, ken tidadumamangeg da langketumaydan, sunga come one,
come all ( We usually inform people through personal invitation or house to house since
we are neighbors while others would just hear of the occasion and they’ll attend). On the
other hand, they have to inform the elders ahead of time for them to prepare the materials
to be used during the ritual.
According to Ibat, one of the key informants, the elders would prepare a salted
meat that were sliced and would be stored in a container. This will serve as the viand for
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Table 2. Methods and materials used and their purposes for the ritual
METHODS
MATERIALS
SYMBOL/PURPOSE
a. Before the
Preparation of
Pig or chicken
ritual
materials and
setting of date for
the ritual
Preparation of
Any meat, salt,
Serves as prohibition
viand for the
legumes or
period for the mother
mother
beans
Blowing of apug
apug
This serves as
after birth
keeping the child
from any harm
b. During the
Setting the
Pig and/or
ritual
materials to be
chickens
used
Butchering of pig
or chickens will
follow
The mombaki will
tapuey
The mombaki drinks
say his prayers to
of the tapuey as he
their gods
starts the ritual
The cooked meat
will be offered
later be eaten for
those who are
present
c. After the ritual
Gifts were given to Duck, chicken,
Present for the child
the child
vegetables,
to rear (animals) and
money
use (money)
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the mother before giving birth. The meat will only be added with legumes because the
Ifugaos believed that to have anything fresh viand during the prohibition period or
ngilinwill expose the child to misfortune.
Then, after the mother has given birth, the key informants said that they are to
prepare the apug three days after birth. They have to blow this apug as soon as the sun
rises on the third day while holding the child. This would also keep the child from any
harm,sickness or any bad luck.
Moreover, after the preparations and practices being done,Bagoris to be
conducted four to six days after birth for female while eight to nine days after birth for
males. The reason for the difference of the number or days of the performance was
indefinite because according to Johnny Bayuc-a, one of the respondents said,
bastadaytatinaipasakanyamingaifugao, ngemawantiustongarason nu apayngakasta
(There was no certain explanation of the said days; it was just passed on to us like that).
Bagorstarts in the morning wherein there were elders or people assigned to
prepare the materials needed. Then, they will butcher a pig or several chickens,
depending on financial capacity of the family (Figure 2 and Figure 3). Some could afford
pig while others would consider chicken for the family to partake. No vegetables or fish
were allowed to be mixed with the meat only legumes. According to the key informants,
the beans or legumes are believed to have medicinal powers to help the mother recuperate
and the eating of meat gives her the right ownership over the baby as protection against
any evil intentions the anitumight have against the baby.
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Figure 2.Butchering of pig
Figure 3.Chickens being butchered
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Aside from those, it does not only provide soup for the mother but it also provides
food for the community who are also forbidden to eat fresh vegetables and fish during the
Bagor.
Afterwards, the mombakiwill drink the tapuey or rice wine when he or she starts
the ritual or process that serves as the call for the spirits, and then he or she still
drinkstapuey as he or she recites the prayers to their gods like diwata, liddum, ampual,
yogyog and others for them to bless the child. Then he or she will also be praying for the
meat to be blessed by their gods that would serve as a food for the community. According
to the 12 respondents, through this practice, it is believed that the child will have the
sense of direction in his or her life and to have a bright future.
Then the community will also bless the child through the gifts they give to him or
her. Among these were chickens, ducks, and vegetables which were given mostly by the
elders while others would give money for the child.
Values gained by the community
fromthis practice
Respectfor culture. Inspite of differences of religious beliefs and decreased
number of mombaki, the Ifugaos were able to maintain the essence of Bagoreven if it was
not the same practice as before. This is how they respect and value the traditions that
have been passed to them from generation to generation.
According toRamona Pinkisanshe said that she witnessed how Ifugao valued their
tradition that until now they embrace it. That is why she as a Kankana-ey, who has stayed
54 years at Asin Road Barangay, respects their practice by learning to accept their beliefs,
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opening her mind to their culture and the people around her and most especially accept
everyone’s unique differences.
Respect for elders.In the part of the Ifugao, Joel Bumey’a emphasized that they
respect their elders, that’s why they do what they are told to do though changes are
inevitable; they were able to maintain the purpose of Bagorand this practice is continued
up to now. Thus, they treat them with due respect for they will be respected in return.
He also added that elders are respected for their wisdom because they are the
carriers of tradition. Besides they become the decision-makers in the family and often
sought for advice which means they have probably experienced more and have grown
very wise.
Unity.Almost all of the respondentssaid that this values is shown when relatives
and friends gather together with one purpose that is to celebrate for the arrival of a new
family member. Thus, Bagoris done as a thanksgiving celebrated by the community as a
whole. Also, they work together for the success of this celebration through helping the
family prepare what they need, inviting the community, preparation of food, joining the
celebration, and guiding the child as he or she grow.
This then shows how Ifugao would cherish each and every member of the family
as Delos Reyes (1987) said that kinship is the basis of all relations.
Accountability. According to the researcher, she observed that the Ifugaos were
accountable to every member of the family because it is the mutual duty of each
individual to his family and kinship to aid, advice, assist and support the child and the
family. With this,family members have to help one another according to their means or in
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any way that they can extend help. Thus, each Ifugao possess the willingness to accept
responsibility towards the child by being a model and a second parent.
Fostering family ties. According to the respondents Bagordoes not only create
closeness and reunion within the family but, mutual defense among Ifugaos. Also, this
gathering would help them be acquainted with each member of the familyand this is done
for the common good or for the benefits of the family. So the children should obey
their parents because if they will defy parental advise it will bring misfortune or their life
becomes tragic.
Generosity. For the family, they have the enthusiasm to share the joy they have by
preparing a simple celebration as thanksgiving for the child. This is shared within the
family, relatives and friends.
In return, relatives may bring any food that they have prepared. As Peralta
mentioned there were elders who still practice giving chicken, ducks or any vegetables as
their gift to the child. Aside from those, money is usually given by the relatives.
According to the respondents,the give and take relationship among Ifugaos was
already established that was why theyshare what they have and help in ways they can. It
may not always be through material things but they can also show generosity by helping
the family in the preparation, during and after Bagor.
Cooperation. This was shown when the Ifugaos come together to support one of
the traditions they have that is Bagor. Most of them participate in the said practice, even
if they were not personally invited but have heard of the celebration they voluntarily join.
As Bumey’a has said, this is a celebration where everybody is welcomed to attend and
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join, come one, come all. Thus, everybody is involved in the celebration and there is the
sense of volunteerism in helping the family in any way they can.
Love.As Bimmuyag mentioned they were gathered together because love binds
them. That is love towards the family, in the sense that they celebrate or perform the
ritual primarily because of the child. This is one way of showing their love to the child,
their commitment, and that they treasure every member of the family.
Communication Strategies in Transmitting
Bagorto Younger Generation
Instruction. Elders or parents of the community pass Bagoras a practice to the
younger generation through training for which someone will be selected from the family.
The elder or mombakiwill teach the processes involved in Bagorthese are: the materials
to be used, people to be invited, prayers to be recited, and method to be performed before,
during and after Bagor. The person chosen is expected to pass this practice to the next
generation and will also be able to train someone who can continue the practice.
Also, storytelling was used to inform the younger generation on how Bagoris
performed. This is done when an elder or parents tell stories to their children during
family talks or conferences (usually before, during or after meals) concerning Bagorand
relating to them how they lived before. These opportunities will give the elders or parents
the chance to impart such knowledge to their children and for them to appreciate and be
aware of such practice. Therefore, younger generation would appreciate and understand
the whole context of Bagoror of any tradition as it is learned. Yet, it is best learned
through its environment according to Panopio and Rolda (2000).
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According to most of the respondents, this explains the crucial role of elders
and/or parents in imparting their traditional knowledge to children. This corroborates the
statement of Serrano (2006) that when an elder dies, a library burns down.
Observation. During the practice of Bagor, elders, parents and mombakiencourage
and expose their children to such practice. Through observation they were able to learn
their own culture and adopt it. As TonieLamsie one of the youthsaid, Dakami gamin
ngauubingmakitkita mi ngaar-aramidentipamilya mi, ken naibagikanyamindaytoynga
aramid. Isunga nu dakami met timaadaantianak, agpa-bagor kami metlang. (We usually
learn our traditions through actual practice, and we will practice Bagor if we will be
having children in the future).
This then explains that most of the younger generation learns best through
observation wherein they have better opportunities of discovering and understanding their
culture because they have witnessed the practice.
Actual Practice. Elders give tasks and involve people in the community to be a
part of the practice, these are: preparation of materials to be used, butchering of pigs or
chicken, helping in preparation of food; inviting the community; or simply being at hand
when needed.
This corroborates the study of Bag-ayan(2010) that the youth are connected to
the life of their ancestors when they participate in rituals because they are reminded of
them. It is through actual events that accepting or rejecting the practice for them is easier.
Furthermore, this supports the study of Nuval (2010) that the participation of
young people in their practices with the elders helped them recognize their function as a
bridge to continue and embody the culture that binds the people in their community.
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On the part of the parents, they emphasized that they perform Bagorfor their
children to follow in the future so they served as a model for the younger generation. This
would also be the time that they will have the chance to explain why they do such
practice.
Changes in the Practice of Bagor
in the Community
There has been a great change in the practice of Bagor, but according to most of
the respondents they were able to maintain the main purpose of this practice (Table 3).
Before the Ritual.Traditionally, according to thekey informants, the mother has to
eat salted meat prepared by the elders that would serve as her viand before giving birth
but during the time of the study, the mother is now allowed to eat anything especially for
foods that are nutritious for her and for the baby.
Today, Bagor is just a simple celebration done as a thanksgiving for the birth of
the child. The respondents understood that not all Ifugaos in the community can afford to
perform Bagor and so others would not perform this practice anymore.
The Ifugaos do oral invitation in informing the community of the Bagor but
because they have migrated to Baguio which an Urban community, they can now
communicated this practice through gadgets available. In addition, since we are in the
modern age as DetyGaddang, one of the respondents said, Maus-usaramintiklasenga
pang-ayabkaru ta nalakangamacontactdagititataotatta ,mabalinngaagayab baba-en ti
invitation, text, internet ken social networks. (Any form of communication can now
beused to contact people since communication today is much easier, it can be through
invitation, text messages, internet and social networks).
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Table 3. Changes in the practice of Bagor
OLD PRACTICE
CHANGES IN PRACTICE
Before the Bagor
The mother will eat salted meat as her viand The mother can eat anything especially
before giving birth
nutritious foods for her health and her
baby
The elders will blow apug three days after It is not being practiced anymore
the mother has given birth
Personal invitation is used to invite the Any form of communication is used to
community
inform the community of Bagor
(text, social networks, invitation card,
personal invitation)
During the Bagor
Pig and chickens are butchered, no Variety of food are being prepared and
vegetables and fish are added except for vegetables are added
beans or legumes
Bagoris led by a mombakiwherein he offer An elder or a pastor (depending on the
prayers to their gods
religious of the family) will lead the
Bagoroffering thanksgiving to the
Almighty God
Passing this practice to younger generation No more trainings are held, and the
was through trainings, story telling, written written documents were not preserved
documents, and actual practice
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They then impart that during the time of the study, they communicate Bagor in
the community through any form of communication may it be oral and/or personal,
written, through gadgets and social networks. Texting was usually used bymost of the
respondents, for according to them, it is the most convenient and cheapest way ofinviting
other than personal invitation especially for those who are from far distant areas and from
their province.
This supports Crabtree (n.d.) stating that the values of society change. Thus,
people are becoming wiser and resourceful that leads them to the invention of materials
perfectly significant in communicating.
Furthermore, according to Mendi (n.d.), technologies were dominantly used as
medium in transmitting information, commonly used to transmit information through
internet accessible through computer. He also added that cell phone has become one of
the easiest ways in communicating with each other and even to distant places. Even if it
may not be as intimate as face to face conversation, however it is the most practical
means of interacting.
During the Ritual.The animals being sacrificed were several chickens and a pig
(and later eaten by those present) needed for the ritual. No fish and vegetables were
allowed to be prepared only after the Bagor ended. Preparing tapuey or rice wine was
also a part of the celebration. But then, during the time of the study (Figure 4), Ifugaos
would prepare either a pig or chicken depending on the financial capacity of the family.
Most of the respondents addedthat now, any vegetables or food are being
prepared because the ngilin or prohibition done for the community before has vanished.
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Figure 4.Other foods were prepared aside from pig and chickens
Also, this practice is performed or led by a mombaki wherein he or she will recite
the prayers for the child to their gods like diwata, liddum, ampual, yogyog, and others for
protection from evil spirits, good health and a good life for the child. But because of the
introduction of Christianity, these beliefs are now being changed for according to 13 of
the respondents they learned that everything should be offered to the God Almighty. So
those who belong to the religious groups like protestant, Baptist and others would invite a
pastor to pray for the child while the Catholics and Anglican have a separate celebration
for Bagor and child baptism.
As for the passing of this tradition to the younger generation, Hilda Mangili, one
of the respondents shared that in her younger days in Ifugao, they passed Bagorthrough
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trainings, written documents, stories and actual practice. For the training, someone will
be selected from the family that will be taught by an elder or a native priest regardingtheir
practice of Bagor. While, for the written documents, there were some who were able
to write their practices in a notebook that was passed on to the next generation, but as
time passed by these documents were not preserved and was not taken care of so these
were gone. Nowadays, trainings are not being applied to the younger generations due to
factors like resistance and death of the mombaki as well as elders. But still, some of the
Ifugaos opt to pass such practice to their children for the tradition to remain alive.
Challenges Encountered in Practicing Bagor
Religious Affiliation. One of the greatest factors that marked an impact to the
community is their spiritual belief. Most of the respondents indicated that Christianity
made them realize that God is the only God and is worthy to be praised in any situation,
which then gave them the choice to continue or divert some of their practices including
Bagor. So they do not perform Cañao anymore during Bagorespecially for the prayers
given to the gods.
This supports the statement of Angiwan (1983) regarding acculturated beliefs and
ritualsis true enough that this had resulted from the altered basic religious belief and
practices of people caused by embracing Christianity. Consequently, it is now common to
see people attending church at the same time remained animistic in their cultural belief
and practices. As more and more people embrace Christianity, their traditions and
cultural practices were discarded.
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Furthermore, JesieBatuna who is a pastor expressed that through Christianity, the
community perceived this practice as paganistic. Batuna also added, that his family
abandoned such practice since they became Christians.
Level of Education.Ifugaos are becoming knowledgeable and are having a deeper
understanding of circumstances happening around them. Thus, most of the respondents
said that they tend to accept or reject the continuing practice of Bagorsince they can
determine what is applicable or not, and practical or not.
Younger generation will eventually reach maturity with a decent education behind
them. Inevitably, they will move to the cities so it was unlikely that they would want to
continue or carry traditions they have instead they will relocate to go to university and
find a good job pursuing greater opportunities given as pointed out by the youth.
This corroborates the Cordillera Schools Group (2003) that education has
introduced a totally different culture and values that brought modification in social norms
and way of life. With the diminishing influence of the unschooled shamans and other
community leaders, the kinship group in the education and socialization of the individual
diminished as the school largely took over the responsibility for education and
socialization.
Consequently, with education comes mobility, and with mobility comes a
weakening of the sense of community and they have been freed from cultural bondage.
Thus, cultures based on closely knit rural societies, will become diluted, fading into being
protected.
Intermarriage. There could be modified practices since their traditions have been
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exposed to other people’s culture, so changes in the practice have been constantly
taking place.
ValentinaGuminigin, one of the respondents also observed that others would
compromise in not practicing such traditions as a sign of respect especially if there is a
clash between the beliefs of both sides. But, it can be remedied if there is an arrangement
of both parties regarding culture and belief for which they can meet half way, adopt or be
modified.
Migration. Job would takes place in this situation wherein they look for places of
better employment that could support them financially, so separation from the family is
needed or that the whole family will have to move to a new environment. This has been
the situation of Ifugaos for according to the three key informants, they have migrated
from their province and settled in Barangay Asin Road, Baguio City to find a better life
and an opportunity to look for a stable job. Therefore, they have less time in giving
attention to their respective tradition because they were busy with their jobs.
Also, this situation gave them the option to continue their culture or not since they
settled in an urban area that is exposed to modernization which has altered their belief
and attention in one way or another. Most of the respondents have laid aside baki, the
embodiment of the traditional Ifugaos that developed through time and handed down
from generation to generation.
Still, there were Ifugaos who talked about keeping some of their traditional
practices and adding new positive ones while living far away. During the process of
migration, they leave behind what is familiar to them and adjust to their new
environment. So they are forced to reflect on and evaluate their beliefs, values and
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practices they hold as well as new ones that they are exposed to. This enables them to
decide what beliefs, values, and practices to hold onto, what to give up, and what to
adopt.
Some Ifugao would keep their practices and adopt new ones with the primary
intention of benefitting their children.
Modernization. New changes and development are taking place as time passes by
according to most of the respondents. These would actually distract not only their
attention but it includes the traditions that they hold like Bagor especially the youth, they
would be adjusting and adopting what is In in a community and thus, their cultures and
traditions were slowly neglected and diminished.
Majority of the respondents observed that technologies have altered the attention
and behavior of young people for which they give more time to these technologies like
computers, gadgets and the like. As observed by AlkaineBunnol, younger generation
would prefer going out with friends or playing at the computer shop, or strolling rather
than learning their culture for it seems that such tradition was outmoded.
Accordingly, this corroborates Dulawan (1996) stating that the process of cultural
change has greatly altered the life of the Ifugaos and it is expected that more changes
would take place as they adapt their ways to the modernizing world. With the rate of
assimilation by the Ifugao group of other cultural practices, Dulawan (1996) predicts that
the Ifugao shall slowly lose their cultural identity as a people, the pace varying in time
and place.
Lack of interest of younger generation. Another observation of the
respondentswas that, young people tend to compromise with modernization, wherein
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
38
there was less interest in them to be familiar with their culture for they are already
blinded with a lot of technologies that satisfies their needs and wants.
Another factor was that, according to Alkaine, parents or elders do not practice or
share their traditions to their children when they were young that was why they have the
tendency to say that it was not taught to them which then resulted to ignorance of young
people to their culture. But, Bimmuyag emphasized that this would also serve as an eye
opener for the youth to have the initiative and responsibility to learn their culture.
Decreased number of native priests. Nowadays, native priests were continuously
diminishing for which they were not able to pass on the practice they started.
Also, Bimmuyag said, Maaw-awanendagitimambunongtatta. Ni lolo mi
timaysakadagitimambunong, ngemtiinbaganakanyami nu
mataytukanuisunaketurayisardeng mi tiCañaongaararamidennaitiBagor. Thus, this is
one of the indications that even native priests would encourage them not to continue
Cañao anymore that append to the changes that happened in the practice of Bagor.
Moreover, elders have not seen this practice fit for them to pass to their children.
Financial Problem.Almost half of the respondents observed thatBagoris not
practiced due to economic crisis that caused a higher cost of goods. Therefore, some
people can no longer afford to buy even a small pig since it will cost thousands. That’s
why financially unstable Ifugao members will prefer not to do Bagorbut would simply be
thankful for the child that she or he was safely born.
As Daniel Ibatsaid, han mi nga kaya nga i-Bagoramintiannak mi
sungangatinagbagorlangketdiyayinauna mi (We cannot afford to perform Bagorfor all
my children, so what we did was to perform Bagor with our first child only).
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
39
As supported by most of the respondentsthey also mentioned that if they are to
perform Bagorfor the first child, usually they would prepare pig since it would be one
time celebration, but if the family cannot really afford, chicken is good enough for the
purpose of Bagor.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
40
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study aimed to determine the communication strategies used by the Ifugaos in
transmitting Bagoras their cultural practice and the medium used; values gained by the
community; the changes encountered, factors for these changes and challenges
encountered in practicing Bagor.
Three elders who have rich knowledge on Bagorand must have performed the
practice served as key informants of the study. And, there were five wives, five husbands,
and five audiences who have witnessed Bagorserved as respondents of the study.
Aside from interviews, photos were also taken from the community depicting the
practice of Bagor.
The Study revealed that, the Ifugao managed to continually practice Bagorup to
now. Bagoris characterized as to who performs it; methods or processes involved; and
other description of Bagoras explained by the key informants.
Values acquired from this practice are respect for culture, respect for elders, unity,
accountability, fostering family ties, generosity, cooperation and love.
The communication strategies used by the Ifugaos were through the following:
instruction, observation and actual practice.
There has been a great change in this practice like the processes done before
during and after.
As for the challenges encountered, these were the religion, education,
intermarriage, migration, modernization, lack of interest of younger generation, decreased
number of native priests, and financial problem.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
41
Conclusions
The following conclusions were derived based on the result of the study:
1. The Ifugao practice Bagoreven if they reside outside their province.
2. The Ifugaos use variety of communication strategies to transmit their practice
to the younger generation.
3. Several Values weregained from Bagor.
4. Changes in the practice of Bagoras affected by several factors did not hinder
Ifugaos to continue and retain such practice according to its purpose.
Recommendations
The following are the recommendation based on the findings of the study:
1. Since there are other areas who conducts Bagorfurther studies may also be
conducted to support and validate the findings of this study.
2. To produce a video documentation regarding Bagorthat will serve as a material
that will be used by the community and other interested people since there were no
documents preserved regarding Bagor.
3. Researchers may undergo a more in depth study and documentation regarding
other cultural practices of Ifugaos like momma (engagement), bugwahon (transferring the
dead), and carvings (one of their famous art).
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
42
LITERATURE CITED
ANDRES, T. 2004. Understanding Ifugao Values. Quezon City, Philippines: Giraffe
Books. Pp. 8, 11.
ANGIWAN, M. 1983. Mayaoyao Social Institution, Customs and Practices. MS Thesis.
BCF, Baguio City.P. 10.
BAG-AYAN, F. 2010. Communication Strategies in Transmitting Cultural
PracticesAmong the Karao Tribe of Bokod, Benguet. MS Thesis. BSU, La
Trinidad. P. 38.
CAVENDISH, M. 2002. Cultures of the World Philippines. Retrieved on March 5, 2011,
from
http://books.google.com.ph/books?id=6BWFruOcDQ&1pg=PA&
dq=baby+ritual+in+the+philippines7source=bl&ots=1fgI5dPYIL&sig=rLcdMzph
HOBAN#GUGahbhT7pbk&hl=tl&ei=KpJTY6ApCwvgPw1P29AQ&sa=X&oi=b
ookresult&ct=result&resnum=7&vd=0CEsQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q&f=false
CORDILLERA SCHOOLS GROUP. 2003. Igorot : A People Who Daily Touch the
Earth and Sky. Quezon City: New Publishers. P. 18.
CRABTREE, D. n.d.The Importance of History. Retrieved on November 3, 2011, from
http://www.mckenziestudycenter.org/society/articles/history.html
DAULOG, Z. B. 1989. Compiled version of Ifugao, IB. Benguet.P. 18.
DE LOS REYES A.J. and A.M. DE LOS REYES (Ed.). 1978. Cordillera History:
IGOROT People Who Daily Touch the Earth and Sky. Baguio City: Cordillera
Schools Group. Pp. 2-3.
DULAWAN, L. 2001. Ifugao Culture and History. Philippines: National Commission for
Culture and the Arts. P. 28.
ENCYCLOPEDIA BRITANNICA. 2007. USA: Encyclopedia Britannica, Incorporated.
P.
245.
ELLGAARD, H. 2003. Infant Baptism. Retrieved on March 8, 2011, from
http://hubpages.com/hub/Infant-Baptism-Christening-Baby-Naming-Ceremony-
and-Baby-Dedication
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Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
43
FABAAN, L. F. 2007. Communication Media Used in Transmitting Cañao Rites and
Practices: The Case of the Laoyan Clan. B.S. Thesis. BSU, La Trinidad, Benguet.
Pp.
9-10.
GERBE, K. 2007. Intercultural Communication as a Stategy of Global
Marketing.Norderstedt Germany : GRIN Verlag. P. 4
GODA, T. 2002. Cordillera: Diversity in Culture Change: Social Anthropology of Hill
People in Northern Luzon. Quezon City, Philippines: New Day Publisher. P. 112.
MENDI, L. S. n.d. Teaching Igbo Culture. Retrieved on October 10, 2011,
fromhttp://www.kwenu.com/publicationc/orabuchi/2006/27passing_culture.html
MIELE, J. 2011. Pagana (Ybanag Series part 3 of 11). Retrieved on March 5, 2011,
fromhttp://www.thealbularyo.com/2011/01/12/pagana-ybanag-series-part-3-of-11/
NUVAL, P. 2010. Ba’diw as Communication Tool for CommunityDevelopment in
Topdac, Atok, B.S. Thesis. BSU, La Trinidad, Benguet. P. 36.
PANOPIO, I. S. and R. S. ROLDA. 2000. Society and Culture Introduction to Sociology
and Anthropology. Quezon City: JMC Press Incorporated. P. 57.
ROHER, D. 2012. The Value of Cultural Tradition. Retrieved on March 16, 2012,
fromhttp://www.droherphd.com/publications.php.
SAMOVAR, L.et. al., 2006. Intercultural Communication: A reader.Boston, USA
Cengage Learning, Inc. P.14
SERRANO, J. 2006. Protecting Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions: The
Experience of Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines. Retrieved on March 5, 2011,
from
http://www.wipo.int/edocs/mdocs/tk/en/wipogrtkfic9/wipogrtkfic9inf7c.pdf
WEYGAN, P. C. 2009. Rituals of the Tingguians of Abra from the Philippines. Retrieved
on March 5, 2011, from http://philouise.wordpress.com/2009/08/25/rituals-of-
thetingguians-of-abra-from-the-philippines/
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
44
APPENDIX B
Interview Schedule for Respondents
Name: ______________________________
Age:__ Civil Status:______
Sex:__ No. of years in Asin Road:____
Educational Background: Tribal Affiliation:_____________
__
College
Graduate
__
College
Level
__ Vocational Graduate
__ High School Graduate
__ High School Level
__ Elementary Graduate
__ Elementary Level
I.
Characteristics of Bagor
II.
Who performs Bagor?
Grandparents
Elders (Tribe leaders)
Parents
Others, please specify____________________________________
III.
What are the methods or processes involved in performing Bagor?
Prayer
Butchering
of
animals
Chants
Others, please specify____________________________________
IV.
Communication Strategies
V.
How is Bagor communicated in the community?
Invitation
paper
Personal
Invitation
Phone
call
Text
Others, please, specify___________________________________
VI.
How is Bagor communicated to younger generation?
Family
Reunions
Fiesta
Actual practice of Bagor (Child blessing)
Story
telling
Books/Literature
45
Others, please specify____________________________________
III. Values
1. What are the values acquired from this practice?
Unity, How?___________________________________________
Solidarity,
How?________________________________________
Respect,
How?_________________________________________
Commitment, How?_____________________________________
Generosity,
How?_______________________________________
Others, please, specify___________________________________
IV. Changes
1. What are the differences of Bagor from past to present in terms of:
Past
Present
Participants involved
Proper time being
performed
Length of time
Offerings given
Others, pls. specify
2. What are the possible reasons of these changes in your practice?
Religion
Education
Intermarriage
Migration
Others, please specify____________________________________
3. What are the factors affecting the change of Bagor practice?
Lack of communication
Resistant
to
change of younger generation
Financial
problem
Others, please specify____________________________________
V. Challenges encountered
1. What were the problems encountered during the transmission of this
cultural practice in younger generation?
Lack of interest from younger generation
Lack of communication between elders and younger generation
Intermarriage
Others, please specify____________________________________
46
APPENDIX C
Guide Questions for Key Informants
Name: ______________________________
Age:__ Civil Status:______
Sex:__ Occupation:___________
No. of years in Asin Road:____
How long have you been practicing Bagor? ___________
I.
Characteristics of Bagor
1. Describe Bagor.
_________________________________________________________
2. Who performs Bagor?
_________________________________________________________
3. What is the purpose of this practice?
_________________________________________________________
4. What are the methods or processes involved in performing Bagor?
_________________________________________________________
II.
Communication Strategies
1. How do you inform the community, if Bagor is to be practiced?
_________________________________________________________
2. How is Bagor communicated to younger generation?
_________________________________________________________
III.
Values
1. What are the values learned from the practice of Bagor?
____________________________________________________________
IV.
Changes
1. What are the differences of Bagor from past to present in terms of:
Past
Present
Participants involved
Proper time being
performed
47
Length of time
Offerings given
Others, pls. specify
2. What are the possible reasons of these changes in your practice?
_________________________________________________________
3. What are the factors affecting the change of Bagor practice?
_________________________________________________________
V.
Challenges encountered
1. What were the problems encountered during the transmission of this
cultural practice in younger generation?
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
48
APPENDIX D
Interview with the Respondents
Interview with Romeo Bimuyag, one of the key informants
Interview with Joseph Domingo, one of the key informants
49
Interview with Daniel Ibat, one of the key informants
Interview with Julieta Peralta
50
Interview with Dety Gaddang
Interview with Maria Dong-e
51
Interview with Tonie Lamsie
Interview with Ramona Pinkisan
POTECTAN, JELLY PEARL F. APRIL 2012. Communication Strategies in Practicing
Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin Road, Baguio City.Benguet State University,
La Trinidad, Benguet.
Adviser: Igrelyn P. Pinos-an, BSc
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted at Barangay Asin Road, Baguio City from December 2011 to
February 2012.
The study aimed to determine the socio-demographic profile of the respondents;
determine the characteristics of Bagor as a form of communication;to determine the values
gained in the community from this practice; to identify the communication strategies used in
transmitting Bagoras a cultural practice to younger generation; to identify the changes in the
practice of Bagorin the community; and to identify the challenges encountered in practicing
Bagor.
The data were obtained through interview schedule with the Ifugao tribe and using guide
question for the key informants.
The findings revealed that Bagoris still practiced by Ifugaos until now. There are values
gained from this practice like respect for culture, respect for elders, unity, accountability,
fostering family ties, generosity, cooperation and love. The communication strategies used by
the community are instruction, observation and actual practice.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin Road,
Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
There were also perceived challenges such as religion, education, intermarriage,
migration, modernization, lack of interest of younger generation, decreased number of native
priests, and financial problem.
Recommendations derived from the study were: Further studies may also be conducted to
support and validate the findings of this study; produce a video documentation regarding Bagor
that will serve as a material that will be used by the community and other interested people since
there were no documents preserved regarding Bagor; Researchers may undergo a more in depth
study and documentation regarding other cultural practices of Ifugaos like momma
(engagement), bugwahon (transferring the dead), and carvings (one of their famous art).
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin Road,
Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Bibliograhy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
i
Abstract. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
i
Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
iii
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1
Rationale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1
Statement of the Problem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
Objectives of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Importance of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Scope and Limitations of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
REVIEW OF LITERATURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Ifugao. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Traditional Family Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Values Gained by the Community. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8
Communication Strategies Used in
Transmitting Bagor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
Challenges Encountered in
Practicing Bagor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .
12
Definition of terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12
METHODOLOGY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14
Locale and time of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14
Respondents of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Data Collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Data to be Gathered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Data Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17
RESULTS AND DISCUSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18
Socio-demographic
Profile of the Respondents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18
Characteristics of Bagor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
Values Gained in the
Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25
Communication Strategies in
Transmitting Bagor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28
Changes Encountered in
Practicing Bagor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30
Perceived Challenges Affecting
Bagor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
34
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION . . . . . . . . . .
40
Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
40
Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
41
Recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
41
LITERATURE CITED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
42
APPENDICES
A. Communication Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
43
B. Interview Schedule for Respondents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
44
C. Guide Questions for Key Informant Interview . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
45
D. Photos of Interviews with Respondents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
48
1
INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Our culture serves as a trade mark that is recognized all over the world.The
culture and the values followed in a particular community display its own unique identity.
By practicing a set of rituals and traditions, the community gains a unique character and
personality, simply because of the culture of the people belonging to it. Being shared
amongst various members of a community, the language, art, and religion serve as the
major symbols of culture, thereby distinguishing it from other cultures in the society.
Furthermore, it is learned and passed on from the older generations to the newer ones,
thereby keeping the culture alive and fresh.
Over the past few years, there has been a dramatic increase in interest concerning
theroles of indigenous knowledge in participatory approach to sustainable development.
Such traditional knowledge is often passed down through generations orally and seldom
in any form of documentation (Serrano, 2006).
Many older generations still have and are keepers of their respective traditional
knowledge, among the indigenous tribes that maintained some of their cultures are the
Ifugao. In the Ifugao family, the child is the primary element for the family’s existence.
The children are treasured because of their role in the perpetuation of the family and
kinship group. As the children grow, it is the duty of the parents to impart to them the
tribal knowledge of a well regulated Ifugao life. All important stages in the life of an
Ifugao require corresponding ritual. One of their rituals is called Bagor. It is welcoming
the arrival of a new baby in a family. This arrival is made more special by the ceremony
being held to welcome the child to the family, to society and to religious communities.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
2
This is a celebration done a week after the mother has given birth. Within that week,
sheis not allowed to eat any kind of vegetable until Bagorhas ended.
Interestingly,
Bagorstill exists in some parts of Baguio specifically at Barangay
Asin Road, a place known to be inhabited by Ifugao people. In fact, the community
practices the said ritual up to now.
Now, there is a great concern that such knowledge may soon be lost. This is due
to changing lifestyles, priorities and the availability of modern amenities, resulting in
diminishing dependence of the younger generation on the traditional and indigenous
knowledge of their elders or communities and also the biggest contributor is the so called
modernization.
Thus, attention should be given on the proper usage or ways to communicate this
traditional knowledge in order to protect, develop, and sustain this kind of culture and
values imparted. For if properly utilized, traditional knowledge can bring much benefit
and develop the community. More so, it keeps the indigenous community alive.
Also, there were literatures discussing the different practices or traditions of
Ifugao but not particularly for Bagoras well as the communication strategies used in this
practice, thus, this study came about.
Statement of the Problem
The study aimed to answer the following questions:
1. What is the socio-demographic profile of the respondents?
2. What are the characteristics of Bagor as a practice?
3. What are the values gained by the community from this practice?
4. What are the communication strategies used in transmitting Bagorto the
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
3
younger generation?
5. What are the changes in the practice of Bagorin the community?
6. What are the challenges encountered in practicingBagor?
Objectives of the Study
Generally, the study aimed to determine the communication strategies in
Transmitting Bagor as a Cultural Practice
Specifically, the study:
1. Determined the socio-demographic profile of the respondents;
2. Determined the characteristics of Bagoras a form of communication;
3. Determined the values gained by the community from this practice;
4. Identified the communication strategiesused in transmittingBagorto the
younger generation;
5. Identified the changes in the practice of Bagorin the community; and
6. Identified the challenges encountered in practicing Bagor
Importance of the Study
Results of the study may benefit the community by recognizing the need toprotect
and sustainBagoras a cultural practice. The younger generation’s knowledge regarding
Bagor may enlighten them as well as may substantiate the importance of transmitting this
culture.
It will also provide information not only for the people in the community but for
other communities who are interested to understand the said practice.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
4
Findings may be used as reference of researchers with related field study as well
as other people who are interested to know about Bagor.
Scope and Limitation
This study focused on how the cultural practice Bagoramong Ifugaos in Asin
Road isbeing retained, practiced and how values can be reflected. Thus, the outputs that
the respondents providedwere the data and information that came from the interview.
Photos were collected from the people who performed or practiced Bagor.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
5
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
Ifugao
The
word
Ifugaoas defined by Andres (2004), is derived from the term
Ipugowhich means from the hills. Ifugao province is situated in the Cordillera Mountains
of Northern Luzon. Its geographic location was instrumental in the Ifugaos’ for
developing their own culture and beliefs. Ifugao is known for the Banaue rice terraces,
comparable to any wonders of the world. Inhabiting their rugged terrains of the exclusive
Cordillera mountain ranges of Central Luzon with their centuries old beliefs and
practices, they developed a distinct culture which, until lately has repulsed outside
influences.
In addition, Ifugao are of Malay stock and their language is Austronesian (Malay
or Polynesian); as is that of their neighbors, but they have developed a number of cultural
characteristics that set them apart. Ifugao social organization is based almost exclusively
on kinship. Each individual is the center of a kinship circle which extends to the third
cousin, and these units were all important in the feuds and headhunting activities that
formerly prevailed (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2007).
Traditional Family Practices (Child birth)
Birth is usually an occasion everyone welcomes as they speculate over the baby’s
gender, name and later which parent or uncle or aunty the baby takes after. In rural areas
most women give birth at home. The placenta buried beneath the house, often with an
object symbolizing what the parents hope the child will grow up to be. In the cities, this
practice is prohibited by the health authorities (Cavendish, 2002).
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
6
Thus, there are rites performed at the start of every phase in man’s life as
according toDulawan (2001). The rites are performed by a native priest called mumbaki.
The mumbaki must have knowledge of the pedigrees of the person for whom the baki is
performed as he has to involve their ancestors of the least to the 4th generation ascending,
inviting them to join the rites and act as mediator or intermediaries’ to the gods. Not a
single right is performed without the initial invocation of ancestors. Hence, in the
Ifugao’s religious life, knowledge of pedigrees is the most important since all custom
laws are supported by pedigrees.
Goda (2002) stated that when the baby is born, the husband has to push sharpen
bamboo sticks with ginger into the four corners of the roof that are believed to prevent
the attack of evil anito. Also, he sets some ginger inside the room where the mother and
new baby stay. It is believed that the ginger has special powers to drive away the evil
spirits. After three days, the mother and the new baby have to take their first bath at the
entrance of the house. Then water they use should not be taken from the river. The
husband has to get water from the irrigation system for one month for his wife. It is
prohibited for him to go to the forest during the ritual seclusion. After one year, they
practice the Pyla-ang ritual to celebrate the birth of the baby. In this ritual, the expenses
are shouldered by both sides of a couple and they exchange some goods. From the
husband’s side, they present female goods like woven skirts, belts, an iron spatula for
weeding, and a digging stick to clean the forest for slash and burn agriculture. In the same
way, the wife’s side prepares male goods such as blankets, a sword and spear, and a G-
string as a gift to her husband. Also, in some mumbaki will attend this ritual. The
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obligations of the couple are equal and the main purpose of this ritual is to affirm the tie
of the couple and their relatives by exchanging goods.
Moreover, after delivery, a knotted runo plant called pudong is placed at the door
of the house. This is a sign that no visitors are allowed to enter the house until a
sacrificial rite called among is performed. At this rite, the baby is given a name which is
usually that of an uncle, aunt, or grandparent. Several rites intended for the healthy
development of the child are performed. Rituals are always attended by some offering.
Chickens, pigs, dogs, and carabaos and in some places ducks, are ritually sacrifices
according to the occasion and then eaten. There is also the recitation of myths, as well as
occasional singing, drinking, and dancing according to the occasion (Daulog, 1989).
The Tingguians of Abra on the other hand, Weygan (2009) presented that the
gipas or Sikkiis a birth rite performed for the bright future of the child. After delivery the
fire is kept burning for 29 days in a shallow box beside the mother for warmth and
protection from evil spirits. On a research of Divine Word College they found out that
the most important significance of the Sikki is the naming of the child. The name is after
an ancestor, a relative who possess exceptional traits or acts that they wish the child will
inherit. The mamaltot (traditional midwife) performs the rite to a newborn baby.
According to Cole and DWC the child is placed on an inverted winnowing basket while
an old woman and man gives the name. The basket is then lifted and gently laid down
several times while the name is uttered. A pig is butchered for the ritual.
While, according to Miele (2011), after the birth, the husband should perform an
atang-atang ritual, making an offering for the benefit of the child, protecting him from
the spirits by constructing a small raft with the offerings and carrying it to the river on his
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head, visible to all of the Gods and spirits, for dispatch to the other world. A chicken or
pig sacrifice is often made, with the meat given to the family members nearby as
celebration. The placenta and other objects left over from the birth, such as suob material,
are thrown into the river.
Nowadays, the first religious ritual for a Filipino baby born in a catholic family is
into baptism. Baptism is a sacrament common to all Christian traditions. It is the
symbolic application of water to the head or immersion of the body into water and
resulting in admission of the recipient into the community of Christians. One of it is the
Infant baptism or dedication is one of the seven sacraments wherein the original sin is
said to be forgiven and washed away through ceremonial pouring or sprinkling drops of
water on their foreheads as they are baptized by the priest in the name of the Father, the
Son and the Holy Spirit. Though the child becomes member of the body of Christ, which
is the Church, but because babies cannot express their faith yet and cannot make their
vows, parents or godparents make baptism vows for the child, waiting for his coming of
age when he can personally confirm those vows, his "confirmation” (Ellgaard, 2003).
Values Gained in Culture
Values represent those things we hold important in life, such as morality, ethics,
and aesthetics. We use values to distinguish between the desirable and the undesirable.
Each person has a set of unique, personal values and a set of shared, cultural valuesand
thatthese cultural values are motivating forces behind our behaviors. Moreover, our
beliefs and values push us to hold certain attitudes, which are learned tendencies to act to
act or respond in a specific way to events, objects, people, or orientations. Culturally
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instilled beliefs and values exert a strong influence in our attitudes. Thus people intend to
embrace what is liked and avoid what is disliked (Samovar et. al., 2006).
For the Ifugaos, the knowledge of a clan’s genealogy strengthens the unity and
mutual defense among the Ifugao. Many conflicts are avoided and others are solved when
the concerned parties realize that they are of the same family origin. In addition, kinship
is the basis of all social relations. The success of one is the success of everybody in the
clan and the failure of one is the burden of all (de los Reyes and de los Reyes, 1987).
Furthermore, the culture in which we grow up molds our views of ourselves and
the world around us and maintains a connection with our ancestors and traditions. The
feeling of belonging to a group of people with whom we identify is a human need that
gets expressed by learning and cherishing one’s ethnic, religious and cultural
heritage. This identification is very important in shaping our identity.The different ethnic
identities teach all of us to value diversity and encourage us to be more tolerant and
accepting of others.These cultural traditions connect us to our ancestors and provide a
cultural treasure that connects generations to one another, providing continuity and
identification (Roher, 2012).
Communication Strategies Used In Transmitting
Bagor to Younger Generations
Communication and interaction between cultures is refers to as Intercultural
communication. Referring to the communication framework by Shannon and weaver, the
source belongs to one culture and receiver is part in another. In the context of Encoding
or Decoding, the source has encoded his message according to his cultural standard like
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language, script and values; the receiver will decode it according to his cultural
background.
As cited by Gerbe, (2007) from Jacobs et. al. (1991), in order to communicate
successfully with another culture and avoid misunderstandings, knowledge about the
receiving culture is important, because the message cannot only be expressed by words,
but also by culturally loaded non-verbal communication including gestures, images and
colours.
For the Ifugaos, knowledge of pedigrees is of paramount importance. Tribal
priests (mombaki) pass on the knowledge of a clan’s genealogy (tupon) from one
generation to the next. Indeed, some priest-experts are able to provide genealogies for ten
to eleven generations which include descendants in both lines of certain important
ancestors. Thus at an early age, children are taught the family genealogy, which may
include relatives to the tenth degree on the father’s and mother’s sides. A functional
knowledge of one’s lineage easily determines whom to invite for religious feasts and
other gatherings which require the presence of relatives. During the prestige feast (baya;
bunaya) the most knowledgeable of the clan’s genealogists identifies the people to be
invited. The hosts’ representatives (munila) go from one village to another beating their
gongs at the same time extending the invitation to the relatives-familiar and unfamiliar
(de los Reyes and de los Reyes, 1978).
Moreover, Ifugao children sleep with their parents until they are about six to ten
years of age where myths and legends are narrated to them. From these stories, they also
learn their customs and beliefs (Cordillera Schools Group, 2003).
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These then supports the saying of Serrano (2006), stating that “When an elder
dies, a library burns down” which clearly illustrates the magnitude and importance of
traditional knowledge and the need to the full participation of everyone within the
communities to document their respective traditional knowledge as their heritage.
Subsequently, Crabtree (n.d.) mentioned that as wet season ends and as summer
intervenes, “the values of society change.” People are becoming wiser and resourceful
that leads them to the invention of tools and materials perfectly significant in
communicating and/or preserving such.
Today, wire is dominantly used as medium in transmitting information according
to Mendi (n.d.), which are commonly used to transmit information through the use of the
internet that is accessible through the computer lately. He also added that we have cell
phone, radio and television where cell phone has become one of the easiest ways of
communicating with each and everyone even to distant places. He pointed out that it may
not as intimate as face to face conversation, however, it is the most practical means of
interacting. Also, television is one of the most patronized and almost available at every
homes and every establishment for entertainment and information as well. According to
him, this communication media is one of the doors to the outside world. People from the
rural communities are given the opportunity to gasps ideas from urban areas, which was
supported by Mendi (n.d.), stating that other methods of transmitting culture include
videos, instruction and folk songs
On the other hand, Faba-an (2007) mentioned in her study that book is one of the
traditional printed material and is highly patronized.
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Still, Panopio and Rolda (2000) said that the transmission of culture naturally
depends on the traits that define it. The rate of recurrence of activities of the belief
systems and religions, norms, traditions, rites, and ritual, and the like that characterizes
the culture would help the younger generation understand and appreciate the whole
complex of their culture. This is so because culture is being learned. However, it is best
learned through on its own environment.
Challenges Affecting Culture
Change is especially evident in the religious life of the Ifugaos. With the
introduction of Christianity, the basic religious beliefs and practices were altered
resulting in acculturated beliefs and rituals. Hence, it was not uncommon to see people
attending Sunday services and at the same time, remaining animistic in their way of life
and practices. As more and more people embrace Christianity, the complex rites related
to their life cycle and culture was discarded (Angiwan, 1983).
Furthermore, the process of cultural change has greatly altered the life of the
Ifugaos and it is expected that more changes would take place as they adapt their ways to
the modernizing world. With the rate of assimilation by the Ifugao group of other cultural
practices, Dulawan (2001) predicts that the Ifugao shall “slowly lose their cultural
identity as a people, the pace varying in time and place.”
One of the reasons for cultural change is that of the education according to the
Cordillera Schools Group (2003), which has introduced a totally different culture and
values that have brought about modification in social norms and way of life. With the
diminishing influenced of the unschooled shamans and other community leaders,
community leadership shifted from the elders to the educated younger generations. The
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role of the elders, the kinship group and the agamangs in the education and socialization
of the individual diminished as the school largely took over the responsibility for
education and socialization.
Besides, Cash economy has completely replaced the traditional method of
exchange such that bartering is almost unknown to the present generation. Increase
contact with traders led to the introduction of modern agricultural implements, building
materials, household utensils, and other equipment that virtually displaced their
traditional technologies (Cordillera Schools Group, 2003).
Operational Definition of terms
The following terms were conceptually defined to give clearer understanding of
the study.
Observation. Witnessing of Bagorpractice among the participants and people
involved.
Instruction. An elder, parent, or mombakitrain somebody regarding the processes
of Bagorbeing done.
Actual practice. An elder or mombaki door perform Bagorwhile people involved
are to observe the practice for learning.
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METHODOLOGY
Locale and Time of the Study
The study was conducted at Asin Road, Baguio City (Figure 1). This area was
chosen because of its suitability for the study in which majority of the Ifugaos are still
practicing Bagoruntil today.
The Barangay is one of the third biggest Barangay in land area and in population
in the entire city. It has a land area of 3.5 sq. kilometer bound on the Eastern side is San
Luis Barangay, Western Side is Barangay Tadiangan, Tuba Benguet, Northern side is
Bakakeng Norte Barangay and Southern portion is Irisan Barangay. It is politically
subdivided by eight puroks.
Asin Road Barangay is located on a rolling flat with hilly areas. It was named by
the old folks as “Asin Road” since it is the road going to Asin Hot Spring. Furthermore, it
is considered one of the Tourist Spots because of the genuine, popular woodcarving
industry in the community.
Residents of this Barangay are from Ifugao, Mt. Province and nearby lowland
provinces. Based on the Barangay Population Census (2010), it was estimated that
Barangay Asin is most occupied by Ifugaos (51%), followed by people of Mt. Province
(37%), Tagalog (5%), Ilocano (3%) and others (4%).
The study was conducted from December 2011 to February 2012.
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Figure 1. Map of Baguio Cityshowing thelocale of the study (A)
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Respondents of the Study
The study purposively selected three Ifugao Elders who were Joseph Dominggo,
Romeo Bimmuyag and Daniel Ibatas key informants who were knowledgeable of
Bagor,and must have performed Bagor at Asin road barangay.
Aside from the key informants,fifteen respondents were chosen through purposive
sampling which included five married women and five married men who practices
Bagorat present and fiveothers who have attended the actual practiceof Bagor. This was
to further support and provide possible answers in identifying the changes, values gained,
and strategies in communicating and passing this practice.
Data Collection
Data were gathered through guide question with key informant and interview
schedule with the respondents. During the interview,Ilocowas used as a medium of
communication since it was the most convenient and most appropriate for both the
interviewee and interviewer. Further questions were asked to verify data and facts.
Photos were collected from the people who have documented the practice as
suggested by the respondents.
Data to be Gathered
The data gathered were the characteristics of Bagoras a form of
communication,values gained among the community with this practice, the
communication strategies in transmitting this cultural practice to the youngergeneration,
and the changes as well as challenges encountered in practicing the culture.
Photos
of
Bagorpractice were also collected.
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Data Analysis
The data gathered was consolidated, summarized and presented in narrative form.
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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Socio-Demographic Profile of Respondents
Among the 18 respondents, there were three Key informants who were
interviewed to explain the characteristics of Bagor.
The three key informants were Ifugao elders who have performed Bagorfor how
many years and were knowledgeable of the said practice. These were: Joseph Dominggo,
74 years old, has practiced Bagorfor 40 years; Romeo Bimmuyag, 61 years old, and has
practiced “Bagor” for 30 years. He is a Kagawad of Barangay Asin Road; and Daniel
Ibat, 60 years old, has practiced Bagorfor 34 years.
The three key informants were asked to describe Bagor; the purpose of this
practice; who performs it; and processes involved. Furthermore, they were the ones who
could tell the changes of this practice, the factors affecting it and challenges in passing
down this practice to younger generation.
Table 1 shows the socio-demographic profile of the respondents. The respondents
were characterized according to their age, sex, ethno-linguistic group, number of years in
Asin Road, educational background and civil status. The ‘n’ in this table refers to the
total number of respondents interviewed.
The table indicates that 40% of the respondents were ranging from age bracket
31-43 years old during the time of the study. Also, the table illustrates that the
respondents of the study were female 53.3% and only 46.67% were accounted as male.
Majority of the respondents (86,66%) were Ifugaos indicating that they belong to
the Ifugao ethno-liguistic group.
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Table 1. Characteristics and the socio-demographic profile of the respondents
CHARACTERISTICS
FREQUENCY
PERCENTAGE
N=15
Age Bracket
18-30
4
26.67
31-43
6
40
57-69
5
33.33
Total
15
100
Sex
Female
6
53.33
Male
7
46.67
Total
15
100
Ethno-Linguistic Group
Ifugao
13
86.66
Ibaloi-Ifugao
1
6.67
Kankana-ey
1
6.67
Total
15
100
Years of stay in Asin Road
10-21
6
40
22-33
3
20
34-45
4
26.67
46-57
2
13.33
Total
15
100
Educational Background
College Graduate
4
26.67
College Level
4
26.67
Vocational Graduate
4
26.66
Highschool Graduate
3
20
Total
15
100
Civil Status
Married
10
66.67
Single
5
33.33
Total
15
100
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Most of them were married (66.67%) and considered as parents who have
practiced “Bagor” in the community while the other respondents (33.33%) were chosen
as the witnesses of the said practice.
In terms of educational attainment, most of them were college graduate (26.67%);
vocational graduate (26.67); have reached college level (26.66%); and the rest were high
school graduates (20%).
Furthermore, most of the respondents have stayed in Asin road for about 10-21
years (40%), followed by 34-45 years (26.67), indicating that some of them grew up in
Asin road while others have migrated there as supported by the age bracket of the
respondents.
Characteristics of Bagor
According to all the respondents,Bagor is a practice among Ifugao to welcome a
baby for whom birth is an arrival made special by the ceremony being held purposelyto
receive a child in the family, society and the community. It is a way for the Ifugaos to
show love and acceptance to the child and serves as a thanksgiving for the safe delivery
and good health of the baby. This also served as a simple gathering for the family to be
acquainted with each other as well as to have reunion other than the main purpose which
is the thanksgiving for the child (Figure 1).
In addition, all the respondentssaid that Bagoris a tradition that has been valued
by the community and this has also served as their identity being an Ifugao.
Processes involved in performing Bagor. There were preparations being done and
practices performed beforeBagor is being conducted, during and after (Table 2).
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Figure 1.Reunion with families during Bagor
First, the parents of the baby will have to prepare financially, emotionally and
physically a year or less before the expected birth of the baby. Then, theywill decide who
to invite during Bagorwhichwill then be communicated through personal invitation or
house to house. As Joel Bumey’a stated, dakami gamin timismomangi-ayabkaru ta
agkakaaruba kami lang, ken tidadumamangeg da langketumaydan, sunga come one,
come all ( We usually inform people through personal invitation or house to house since
we are neighbors while others would just hear of the occasion and they’ll attend). On the
other hand, they have to inform the elders ahead of time for them to prepare the materials
to be used during the ritual.
According to Ibat, one of the key informants, the elders would prepare a salted
meat that were sliced and would be stored in a container. This will serve as the viand for
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Table 2. Methods and materials used and their purposes for the ritual
METHODS
MATERIALS
SYMBOL/PURPOSE
a. Before the
Preparation of
Pig or chicken
ritual
materials and
setting of date for
the ritual
Preparation of
Any meat, salt,
Serves as prohibition
viand for the
legumes or
period for the mother
mother
beans
Blowing of apug
apug
This serves as
after birth
keeping the child
from any harm
b. During the
Setting the
Pig and/or
ritual
materials to be
chickens
used
Butchering of pig
or chickens will
follow
The mombaki will
tapuey
The mombaki drinks
say his prayers to
of the tapuey as he
their gods
starts the ritual
The cooked meat
will be offered
later be eaten for
those who are
present
c. After the ritual
Gifts were given to Duck, chicken,
Present for the child
the child
vegetables,
to rear (animals) and
money
use (money)
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the mother before giving birth. The meat will only be added with legumes because the
Ifugaos believed that to have anything fresh viand during the prohibition period or
ngilinwill expose the child to misfortune.
Then, after the mother has given birth, the key informants said that they are to
prepare the apug three days after birth. They have to blow this apug as soon as the sun
rises on the third day while holding the child. This would also keep the child from any
harm,sickness or any bad luck.
Moreover, after the preparations and practices being done,Bagoris to be
conducted four to six days after birth for female while eight to nine days after birth for
males. The reason for the difference of the number or days of the performance was
indefinite because according to Johnny Bayuc-a, one of the respondents said,
bastadaytatinaipasakanyamingaifugao, ngemawantiustongarason nu apayngakasta
(There was no certain explanation of the said days; it was just passed on to us like that).
Bagorstarts in the morning wherein there were elders or people assigned to
prepare the materials needed. Then, they will butcher a pig or several chickens,
depending on financial capacity of the family (Figure 2 and Figure 3). Some could afford
pig while others would consider chicken for the family to partake. No vegetables or fish
were allowed to be mixed with the meat only legumes. According to the key informants,
the beans or legumes are believed to have medicinal powers to help the mother recuperate
and the eating of meat gives her the right ownership over the baby as protection against
any evil intentions the anitumight have against the baby.
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Figure 2.Butchering of pig
Figure 3.Chickens being butchered
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Aside from those, it does not only provide soup for the mother but it also provides
food for the community who are also forbidden to eat fresh vegetables and fish during the
Bagor.
Afterwards, the mombakiwill drink the tapuey or rice wine when he or she starts
the ritual or process that serves as the call for the spirits, and then he or she still
drinkstapuey as he or she recites the prayers to their gods like diwata, liddum, ampual,
yogyog and others for them to bless the child. Then he or she will also be praying for the
meat to be blessed by their gods that would serve as a food for the community. According
to the 12 respondents, through this practice, it is believed that the child will have the
sense of direction in his or her life and to have a bright future.
Then the community will also bless the child through the gifts they give to him or
her. Among these were chickens, ducks, and vegetables which were given mostly by the
elders while others would give money for the child.
Values gained by the community
fromthis practice
Respectfor culture. Inspite of differences of religious beliefs and decreased
number of mombaki, the Ifugaos were able to maintain the essence of Bagoreven if it was
not the same practice as before. This is how they respect and value the traditions that
have been passed to them from generation to generation.
According toRamona Pinkisanshe said that she witnessed how Ifugao valued their
tradition that until now they embrace it. That is why she as a Kankana-ey, who has stayed
54 years at Asin Road Barangay, respects their practice by learning to accept their beliefs,
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opening her mind to their culture and the people around her and most especially accept
everyone’s unique differences.
Respect for elders.In the part of the Ifugao, Joel Bumey’a emphasized that they
respect their elders, that’s why they do what they are told to do though changes are
inevitable; they were able to maintain the purpose of Bagorand this practice is continued
up to now. Thus, they treat them with due respect for they will be respected in return.
He also added that elders are respected for their wisdom because they are the
carriers of tradition. Besides they become the decision-makers in the family and often
sought for advice which means they have probably experienced more and have grown
very wise.
Unity.Almost all of the respondentssaid that this values is shown when relatives
and friends gather together with one purpose that is to celebrate for the arrival of a new
family member. Thus, Bagoris done as a thanksgiving celebrated by the community as a
whole. Also, they work together for the success of this celebration through helping the
family prepare what they need, inviting the community, preparation of food, joining the
celebration, and guiding the child as he or she grow.
This then shows how Ifugao would cherish each and every member of the family
as Delos Reyes (1987) said that kinship is the basis of all relations.
Accountability. According to the researcher, she observed that the Ifugaos were
accountable to every member of the family because it is the mutual duty of each
individual to his family and kinship to aid, advice, assist and support the child and the
family. With this,family members have to help one another according to their means or in
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any way that they can extend help. Thus, each Ifugao possess the willingness to accept
responsibility towards the child by being a model and a second parent.
Fostering family ties. According to the respondents Bagordoes not only create
closeness and reunion within the family but, mutual defense among Ifugaos. Also, this
gathering would help them be acquainted with each member of the familyand this is done
for the common good or for the benefits of the family. So the children should obey
their parents because if they will defy parental advise it will bring misfortune or their life
becomes tragic.
Generosity. For the family, they have the enthusiasm to share the joy they have by
preparing a simple celebration as thanksgiving for the child. This is shared within the
family, relatives and friends.
In return, relatives may bring any food that they have prepared. As Peralta
mentioned there were elders who still practice giving chicken, ducks or any vegetables as
their gift to the child. Aside from those, money is usually given by the relatives.
According to the respondents,the give and take relationship among Ifugaos was
already established that was why theyshare what they have and help in ways they can. It
may not always be through material things but they can also show generosity by helping
the family in the preparation, during and after Bagor.
Cooperation. This was shown when the Ifugaos come together to support one of
the traditions they have that is Bagor. Most of them participate in the said practice, even
if they were not personally invited but have heard of the celebration they voluntarily join.
As Bumey’a has said, this is a celebration where everybody is welcomed to attend and
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join, come one, come all. Thus, everybody is involved in the celebration and there is the
sense of volunteerism in helping the family in any way they can.
Love.As Bimmuyag mentioned they were gathered together because love binds
them. That is love towards the family, in the sense that they celebrate or perform the
ritual primarily because of the child. This is one way of showing their love to the child,
their commitment, and that they treasure every member of the family.
Communication Strategies in Transmitting
Bagorto Younger Generation
Instruction. Elders or parents of the community pass Bagoras a practice to the
younger generation through training for which someone will be selected from the family.
The elder or mombakiwill teach the processes involved in Bagorthese are: the materials
to be used, people to be invited, prayers to be recited, and method to be performed before,
during and after Bagor. The person chosen is expected to pass this practice to the next
generation and will also be able to train someone who can continue the practice.
Also, storytelling was used to inform the younger generation on how Bagoris
performed. This is done when an elder or parents tell stories to their children during
family talks or conferences (usually before, during or after meals) concerning Bagorand
relating to them how they lived before. These opportunities will give the elders or parents
the chance to impart such knowledge to their children and for them to appreciate and be
aware of such practice. Therefore, younger generation would appreciate and understand
the whole context of Bagoror of any tradition as it is learned. Yet, it is best learned
through its environment according to Panopio and Rolda (2000).
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
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According to most of the respondents, this explains the crucial role of elders
and/or parents in imparting their traditional knowledge to children. This corroborates the
statement of Serrano (2006) that when an elder dies, a library burns down.
Observation. During the practice of Bagor, elders, parents and mombakiencourage
and expose their children to such practice. Through observation they were able to learn
their own culture and adopt it. As TonieLamsie one of the youthsaid, Dakami gamin
ngauubingmakitkita mi ngaar-aramidentipamilya mi, ken naibagikanyamindaytoynga
aramid. Isunga nu dakami met timaadaantianak, agpa-bagor kami metlang. (We usually
learn our traditions through actual practice, and we will practice Bagor if we will be
having children in the future).
This then explains that most of the younger generation learns best through
observation wherein they have better opportunities of discovering and understanding their
culture because they have witnessed the practice.
Actual Practice. Elders give tasks and involve people in the community to be a
part of the practice, these are: preparation of materials to be used, butchering of pigs or
chicken, helping in preparation of food; inviting the community; or simply being at hand
when needed.
This corroborates the study of Bag-ayan(2010) that the youth are connected to
the life of their ancestors when they participate in rituals because they are reminded of
them. It is through actual events that accepting or rejecting the practice for them is easier.
Furthermore, this supports the study of Nuval (2010) that the participation of
young people in their practices with the elders helped them recognize their function as a
bridge to continue and embody the culture that binds the people in their community.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
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On the part of the parents, they emphasized that they perform Bagorfor their
children to follow in the future so they served as a model for the younger generation. This
would also be the time that they will have the chance to explain why they do such
practice.
Changes in the Practice of Bagor
in the Community
There has been a great change in the practice of Bagor, but according to most of
the respondents they were able to maintain the main purpose of this practice (Table 3).
Before the Ritual.Traditionally, according to thekey informants, the mother has to
eat salted meat prepared by the elders that would serve as her viand before giving birth
but during the time of the study, the mother is now allowed to eat anything especially for
foods that are nutritious for her and for the baby.
Today, Bagor is just a simple celebration done as a thanksgiving for the birth of
the child. The respondents understood that not all Ifugaos in the community can afford to
perform Bagor and so others would not perform this practice anymore.
The Ifugaos do oral invitation in informing the community of the Bagor but
because they have migrated to Baguio which an Urban community, they can now
communicated this practice through gadgets available. In addition, since we are in the
modern age as DetyGaddang, one of the respondents said, Maus-usaramintiklasenga
pang-ayabkaru ta nalakangamacontactdagititataotatta ,mabalinngaagayab baba-en ti
invitation, text, internet ken social networks. (Any form of communication can now
beused to contact people since communication today is much easier, it can be through
invitation, text messages, internet and social networks).
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
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Table 3. Changes in the practice of Bagor
OLD PRACTICE
CHANGES IN PRACTICE
Before the Bagor
The mother will eat salted meat as her viand The mother can eat anything especially
before giving birth
nutritious foods for her health and her
baby
The elders will blow apug three days after It is not being practiced anymore
the mother has given birth
Personal invitation is used to invite the Any form of communication is used to
community
inform the community of Bagor
(text, social networks, invitation card,
personal invitation)
During the Bagor
Pig and chickens are butchered, no Variety of food are being prepared and
vegetables and fish are added except for vegetables are added
beans or legumes
Bagoris led by a mombakiwherein he offer An elder or a pastor (depending on the
prayers to their gods
religious of the family) will lead the
Bagoroffering thanksgiving to the
Almighty God
Passing this practice to younger generation No more trainings are held, and the
was through trainings, story telling, written written documents were not preserved
documents, and actual practice
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
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They then impart that during the time of the study, they communicate Bagor in
the community through any form of communication may it be oral and/or personal,
written, through gadgets and social networks. Texting was usually used bymost of the
respondents, for according to them, it is the most convenient and cheapest way ofinviting
other than personal invitation especially for those who are from far distant areas and from
their province.
This supports Crabtree (n.d.) stating that the values of society change. Thus,
people are becoming wiser and resourceful that leads them to the invention of materials
perfectly significant in communicating.
Furthermore, according to Mendi (n.d.), technologies were dominantly used as
medium in transmitting information, commonly used to transmit information through
internet accessible through computer. He also added that cell phone has become one of
the easiest ways in communicating with each other and even to distant places. Even if it
may not be as intimate as face to face conversation, however it is the most practical
means of interacting.
During the Ritual.The animals being sacrificed were several chickens and a pig
(and later eaten by those present) needed for the ritual. No fish and vegetables were
allowed to be prepared only after the Bagor ended. Preparing tapuey or rice wine was
also a part of the celebration. But then, during the time of the study (Figure 4), Ifugaos
would prepare either a pig or chicken depending on the financial capacity of the family.
Most of the respondents addedthat now, any vegetables or food are being
prepared because the ngilin or prohibition done for the community before has vanished.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
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Figure 4.Other foods were prepared aside from pig and chickens
Also, this practice is performed or led by a mombaki wherein he or she will recite
the prayers for the child to their gods like diwata, liddum, ampual, yogyog, and others for
protection from evil spirits, good health and a good life for the child. But because of the
introduction of Christianity, these beliefs are now being changed for according to 13 of
the respondents they learned that everything should be offered to the God Almighty. So
those who belong to the religious groups like protestant, Baptist and others would invite a
pastor to pray for the child while the Catholics and Anglican have a separate celebration
for Bagor and child baptism.
As for the passing of this tradition to the younger generation, Hilda Mangili, one
of the respondents shared that in her younger days in Ifugao, they passed Bagorthrough
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
34
trainings, written documents, stories and actual practice. For the training, someone will
be selected from the family that will be taught by an elder or a native priest regardingtheir
practice of Bagor. While, for the written documents, there were some who were able
to write their practices in a notebook that was passed on to the next generation, but as
time passed by these documents were not preserved and was not taken care of so these
were gone. Nowadays, trainings are not being applied to the younger generations due to
factors like resistance and death of the mombaki as well as elders. But still, some of the
Ifugaos opt to pass such practice to their children for the tradition to remain alive.
Challenges Encountered in Practicing Bagor
Religious Affiliation. One of the greatest factors that marked an impact to the
community is their spiritual belief. Most of the respondents indicated that Christianity
made them realize that God is the only God and is worthy to be praised in any situation,
which then gave them the choice to continue or divert some of their practices including
Bagor. So they do not perform Cañao anymore during Bagorespecially for the prayers
given to the gods.
This supports the statement of Angiwan (1983) regarding acculturated beliefs and
ritualsis true enough that this had resulted from the altered basic religious belief and
practices of people caused by embracing Christianity. Consequently, it is now common to
see people attending church at the same time remained animistic in their cultural belief
and practices. As more and more people embrace Christianity, their traditions and
cultural practices were discarded.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
35
Furthermore, JesieBatuna who is a pastor expressed that through Christianity, the
community perceived this practice as paganistic. Batuna also added, that his family
abandoned such practice since they became Christians.
Level of Education.Ifugaos are becoming knowledgeable and are having a deeper
understanding of circumstances happening around them. Thus, most of the respondents
said that they tend to accept or reject the continuing practice of Bagorsince they can
determine what is applicable or not, and practical or not.
Younger generation will eventually reach maturity with a decent education behind
them. Inevitably, they will move to the cities so it was unlikely that they would want to
continue or carry traditions they have instead they will relocate to go to university and
find a good job pursuing greater opportunities given as pointed out by the youth.
This corroborates the Cordillera Schools Group (2003) that education has
introduced a totally different culture and values that brought modification in social norms
and way of life. With the diminishing influence of the unschooled shamans and other
community leaders, the kinship group in the education and socialization of the individual
diminished as the school largely took over the responsibility for education and
socialization.
Consequently, with education comes mobility, and with mobility comes a
weakening of the sense of community and they have been freed from cultural bondage.
Thus, cultures based on closely knit rural societies, will become diluted, fading into being
protected.
Intermarriage. There could be modified practices since their traditions have been
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
36
exposed to other people’s culture, so changes in the practice have been constantly
taking place.
ValentinaGuminigin, one of the respondents also observed that others would
compromise in not practicing such traditions as a sign of respect especially if there is a
clash between the beliefs of both sides. But, it can be remedied if there is an arrangement
of both parties regarding culture and belief for which they can meet half way, adopt or be
modified.
Migration. Job would takes place in this situation wherein they look for places of
better employment that could support them financially, so separation from the family is
needed or that the whole family will have to move to a new environment. This has been
the situation of Ifugaos for according to the three key informants, they have migrated
from their province and settled in Barangay Asin Road, Baguio City to find a better life
and an opportunity to look for a stable job. Therefore, they have less time in giving
attention to their respective tradition because they were busy with their jobs.
Also, this situation gave them the option to continue their culture or not since they
settled in an urban area that is exposed to modernization which has altered their belief
and attention in one way or another. Most of the respondents have laid aside baki, the
embodiment of the traditional Ifugaos that developed through time and handed down
from generation to generation.
Still, there were Ifugaos who talked about keeping some of their traditional
practices and adding new positive ones while living far away. During the process of
migration, they leave behind what is familiar to them and adjust to their new
environment. So they are forced to reflect on and evaluate their beliefs, values and
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
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practices they hold as well as new ones that they are exposed to. This enables them to
decide what beliefs, values, and practices to hold onto, what to give up, and what to
adopt.
Some Ifugao would keep their practices and adopt new ones with the primary
intention of benefitting their children.
Modernization. New changes and development are taking place as time passes by
according to most of the respondents. These would actually distract not only their
attention but it includes the traditions that they hold like Bagor especially the youth, they
would be adjusting and adopting what is In in a community and thus, their cultures and
traditions were slowly neglected and diminished.
Majority of the respondents observed that technologies have altered the attention
and behavior of young people for which they give more time to these technologies like
computers, gadgets and the like. As observed by AlkaineBunnol, younger generation
would prefer going out with friends or playing at the computer shop, or strolling rather
than learning their culture for it seems that such tradition was outmoded.
Accordingly, this corroborates Dulawan (1996) stating that the process of cultural
change has greatly altered the life of the Ifugaos and it is expected that more changes
would take place as they adapt their ways to the modernizing world. With the rate of
assimilation by the Ifugao group of other cultural practices, Dulawan (1996) predicts that
the Ifugao shall slowly lose their cultural identity as a people, the pace varying in time
and place.
Lack of interest of younger generation. Another observation of the
respondentswas that, young people tend to compromise with modernization, wherein
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
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there was less interest in them to be familiar with their culture for they are already
blinded with a lot of technologies that satisfies their needs and wants.
Another factor was that, according to Alkaine, parents or elders do not practice or
share their traditions to their children when they were young that was why they have the
tendency to say that it was not taught to them which then resulted to ignorance of young
people to their culture. But, Bimmuyag emphasized that this would also serve as an eye
opener for the youth to have the initiative and responsibility to learn their culture.
Decreased number of native priests. Nowadays, native priests were continuously
diminishing for which they were not able to pass on the practice they started.
Also, Bimmuyag said, Maaw-awanendagitimambunongtatta. Ni lolo mi
timaysakadagitimambunong, ngemtiinbaganakanyami nu
mataytukanuisunaketurayisardeng mi tiCañaongaararamidennaitiBagor. Thus, this is
one of the indications that even native priests would encourage them not to continue
Cañao anymore that append to the changes that happened in the practice of Bagor.
Moreover, elders have not seen this practice fit for them to pass to their children.
Financial Problem.Almost half of the respondents observed thatBagoris not
practiced due to economic crisis that caused a higher cost of goods. Therefore, some
people can no longer afford to buy even a small pig since it will cost thousands. That’s
why financially unstable Ifugao members will prefer not to do Bagorbut would simply be
thankful for the child that she or he was safely born.
As Daniel Ibatsaid, han mi nga kaya nga i-Bagoramintiannak mi
sungangatinagbagorlangketdiyayinauna mi (We cannot afford to perform Bagorfor all
my children, so what we did was to perform Bagor with our first child only).
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
39
As supported by most of the respondentsthey also mentioned that if they are to
perform Bagorfor the first child, usually they would prepare pig since it would be one
time celebration, but if the family cannot really afford, chicken is good enough for the
purpose of Bagor.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
40
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary
The study aimed to determine the communication strategies used by the Ifugaos in
transmitting Bagoras their cultural practice and the medium used; values gained by the
community; the changes encountered, factors for these changes and challenges
encountered in practicing Bagor.
Three elders who have rich knowledge on Bagorand must have performed the
practice served as key informants of the study. And, there were five wives, five husbands,
and five audiences who have witnessed Bagorserved as respondents of the study.
Aside from interviews, photos were also taken from the community depicting the
practice of Bagor.
The Study revealed that, the Ifugao managed to continually practice Bagorup to
now. Bagoris characterized as to who performs it; methods or processes involved; and
other description of Bagoras explained by the key informants.
Values acquired from this practice are respect for culture, respect for elders, unity,
accountability, fostering family ties, generosity, cooperation and love.
The communication strategies used by the Ifugaos were through the following:
instruction, observation and actual practice.
There has been a great change in this practice like the processes done before
during and after.
As for the challenges encountered, these were the religion, education,
intermarriage, migration, modernization, lack of interest of younger generation, decreased
number of native priests, and financial problem.
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
41
Conclusions
The following conclusions were derived based on the result of the study:
1. The Ifugao practice Bagoreven if they reside outside their province.
2. The Ifugaos use variety of communication strategies to transmit their practice
to the younger generation.
3. Several Values weregained from Bagor.
4. Changes in the practice of Bagoras affected by several factors did not hinder
Ifugaos to continue and retain such practice according to its purpose.
Recommendations
The following are the recommendation based on the findings of the study:
1. Since there are other areas who conducts Bagorfurther studies may also be
conducted to support and validate the findings of this study.
2. To produce a video documentation regarding Bagorthat will serve as a material
that will be used by the community and other interested people since there were no
documents preserved regarding Bagor.
3. Researchers may undergo a more in depth study and documentation regarding
other cultural practices of Ifugaos like momma (engagement), bugwahon (transferring the
dead), and carvings (one of their famous art).
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
42
LITERATURE CITED
ANDRES, T. 2004. Understanding Ifugao Values. Quezon City, Philippines: Giraffe
Books. Pp. 8, 11.
ANGIWAN, M. 1983. Mayaoyao Social Institution, Customs and Practices. MS Thesis.
BCF, Baguio City.P. 10.
BAG-AYAN, F. 2010. Communication Strategies in Transmitting Cultural
PracticesAmong the Karao Tribe of Bokod, Benguet. MS Thesis. BSU, La
Trinidad. P. 38.
CAVENDISH, M. 2002. Cultures of the World Philippines. Retrieved on March 5, 2011,
from
http://books.google.com.ph/books?id=6BWFruOcDQ&1pg=PA&
dq=baby+ritual+in+the+philippines7source=bl&ots=1fgI5dPYIL&sig=rLcdMzph
HOBAN#GUGahbhT7pbk&hl=tl&ei=KpJTY6ApCwvgPw1P29AQ&sa=X&oi=b
ookresult&ct=result&resnum=7&vd=0CEsQ6AEwBg#v=onepage&q&f=false
CORDILLERA SCHOOLS GROUP. 2003. Igorot : A People Who Daily Touch the
Earth and Sky. Quezon City: New Publishers. P. 18.
CRABTREE, D. n.d.The Importance of History. Retrieved on November 3, 2011, from
http://www.mckenziestudycenter.org/society/articles/history.html
DAULOG, Z. B. 1989. Compiled version of Ifugao, IB. Benguet.P. 18.
DE LOS REYES A.J. and A.M. DE LOS REYES (Ed.). 1978. Cordillera History:
IGOROT People Who Daily Touch the Earth and Sky. Baguio City: Cordillera
Schools Group. Pp. 2-3.
DULAWAN, L. 2001. Ifugao Culture and History. Philippines: National Commission for
Culture and the Arts. P. 28.
ENCYCLOPEDIA BRITANNICA. 2007. USA: Encyclopedia Britannica, Incorporated.
P.
245.
ELLGAARD, H. 2003. Infant Baptism. Retrieved on March 8, 2011, from
http://hubpages.com/hub/Infant-Baptism-Christening-Baby-Naming-Ceremony-
and-Baby-Dedication
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Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
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FABAAN, L. F. 2007. Communication Media Used in Transmitting Cañao Rites and
Practices: The Case of the Laoyan Clan. B.S. Thesis. BSU, La Trinidad, Benguet.
Pp.
9-10.
GERBE, K. 2007. Intercultural Communication as a Stategy of Global
Marketing.Norderstedt Germany : GRIN Verlag. P. 4
GODA, T. 2002. Cordillera: Diversity in Culture Change: Social Anthropology of Hill
People in Northern Luzon. Quezon City, Philippines: New Day Publisher. P. 112.
MENDI, L. S. n.d. Teaching Igbo Culture. Retrieved on October 10, 2011,
fromhttp://www.kwenu.com/publicationc/orabuchi/2006/27passing_culture.html
MIELE, J. 2011. Pagana (Ybanag Series part 3 of 11). Retrieved on March 5, 2011,
fromhttp://www.thealbularyo.com/2011/01/12/pagana-ybanag-series-part-3-of-11/
NUVAL, P. 2010. Ba’diw as Communication Tool for CommunityDevelopment in
Topdac, Atok, B.S. Thesis. BSU, La Trinidad, Benguet. P. 36.
PANOPIO, I. S. and R. S. ROLDA. 2000. Society and Culture Introduction to Sociology
and Anthropology. Quezon City: JMC Press Incorporated. P. 57.
ROHER, D. 2012. The Value of Cultural Tradition. Retrieved on March 16, 2012,
fromhttp://www.droherphd.com/publications.php.
SAMOVAR, L.et. al., 2006. Intercultural Communication: A reader.Boston, USA
Cengage Learning, Inc. P.14
SERRANO, J. 2006. Protecting Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions: The
Experience of Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines. Retrieved on March 5, 2011,
from
http://www.wipo.int/edocs/mdocs/tk/en/wipogrtkfic9/wipogrtkfic9inf7c.pdf
WEYGAN, P. C. 2009. Rituals of the Tingguians of Abra from the Philippines. Retrieved
on March 5, 2011, from http://philouise.wordpress.com/2009/08/25/rituals-of-
thetingguians-of-abra-from-the-philippines/
Communication Strategies in Practicing Bagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin
Road, Baguio City / Jelly Pearl F. Potectan. 2012
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APPENDIX B
Interview Schedule for Respondents
Name: ______________________________
Age:__ Civil Status:______
Sex:__ No. of years in Asin Road:____
Educational Background: Tribal Affiliation:_____________
__
College
Graduate
__
College
Level
__ Vocational Graduate
__ High School Graduate
__ High School Level
__ Elementary Graduate
__ Elementary Level
I.
Characteristics of Bagor
II.
Who performs Bagor?
Grandparents
Elders (Tribe leaders)
Parents
Others, please specify____________________________________
III.
What are the methods or processes involved in performing Bagor?
Prayer
Butchering
of
animals
Chants
Others, please specify____________________________________
IV.
Communication Strategies
V.
How is Bagor communicated in the community?
Invitation
paper
Personal
Invitation
Phone
call
Text
Others, please, specify___________________________________
VI.
How is Bagor communicated to younger generation?
Family
Reunions
Fiesta
Actual practice of Bagor (Child blessing)
Story
telling
Books/Literature
45
Others, please specify____________________________________
III. Values
1. What are the values acquired from this practice?
Unity, How?___________________________________________
Solidarity,
How?________________________________________
Respect,
How?_________________________________________
Commitment, How?_____________________________________
Generosity,
How?_______________________________________
Others, please, specify___________________________________
IV. Changes
1. What are the differences of Bagor from past to present in terms of:
Past
Present
Participants involved
Proper time being
performed
Length of time
Offerings given
Others, pls. specify
2. What are the possible reasons of these changes in your practice?
Religion
Education
Intermarriage
Migration
Others, please specify____________________________________
3. What are the factors affecting the change of Bagor practice?
Lack of communication
Resistant
to
change of younger generation
Financial
problem
Others, please specify____________________________________
V. Challenges encountered
1. What were the problems encountered during the transmission of this
cultural practice in younger generation?
Lack of interest from younger generation
Lack of communication between elders and younger generation
Intermarriage
Others, please specify____________________________________
46
APPENDIX C
Guide Questions for Key Informants
Name: ______________________________
Age:__ Civil Status:______
Sex:__ Occupation:___________
No. of years in Asin Road:____
How long have you been practicing Bagor? ___________
I.
Characteristics of Bagor
1. Describe Bagor.
_________________________________________________________
2. Who performs Bagor?
_________________________________________________________
3. What is the purpose of this practice?
_________________________________________________________
4. What are the methods or processes involved in performing Bagor?
_________________________________________________________
II.
Communication Strategies
1. How do you inform the community, if Bagor is to be practiced?
_________________________________________________________
2. How is Bagor communicated to younger generation?
_________________________________________________________
III.
Values
1. What are the values learned from the practice of Bagor?
____________________________________________________________
IV.
Changes
1. What are the differences of Bagor from past to present in terms of:
Past
Present
Participants involved
Proper time being
performed
47
Length of time
Offerings given
Others, pls. specify
2. What are the possible reasons of these changes in your practice?
_________________________________________________________
3. What are the factors affecting the change of Bagor practice?
_________________________________________________________
V.
Challenges encountered
1. What were the problems encountered during the transmission of this
cultural practice in younger generation?
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
48
APPENDIX D
Interview with the Respondents
Interview with Romeo Bimuyag, one of the key informants
Interview with Joseph Domingo, one of the key informants
49
Interview with Daniel Ibat, one of the key informants
Interview with Julieta Peralta
50
Interview with Dety Gaddang
Interview with Maria Dong-e
51
Interview with Tonie Lamsie
Interview with Ramona Pinkisan
Document Outline
- Communication Strategies in PracticingBagor among Ifugaos Residing at Barangay Asin Road, Baguio City
- BIBLIOGRAPHY
- TABLE OF CONTENTS
- INTRODUCTION
- RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
- REVIEW OF LITERATURE
- METHODOLOGY
- RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
- SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
- LITERATURE CITED
- APPENDICES