Cultural Activities, Resources, Practices, and Preservation of the Higaonon Tribe: An Ethnographic Study
Cultural Activities, Resources, Practices, and Preservation of the Higaonon Tribe: An Ethnographic Study

Summary/Abstract: The Higaonon Tribe, an indigenous community in the Philippines, is the custodian of a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in their unique customs, traditions, beliefs, and practices. This ethnographic study was conducted to explore and document the cultural resources and preservation practices of the Higaonon Tribe, particularly in Simbalan, Buenavista, and Agusan del Norte. Through immersive fieldwork involving Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and interviews with key tribe members such as the Datu and Elders, the researchers gained insights into the tribe’s social organisation, religious rituals, traditional knowledge systems, material culture, and artistic expressions. The research documents the tribe’s significant cultural resources, including traditional crafts, oral literature, sacred rituals, and community dances. The findings reveal the tribe’s multifaceted efforts to preserve their cultural heritage through oral traditions, sustainable farming methods, ecological wisdom, and cultural revitalisation initiatives. These practices are not only crucial for maintaining the Higaonon Tribe’s cultural identity but also contribute to the promotion of sustainable living and environmental protection. The study underscores the urgent need to recognise, preserve, and celebrate the Higaonon Tribe’s cultural heritage. It recommends the inclusion of the Higaonon culture in the national educational curriculum and suggests that government programs be designed to promote cultural pride and the embracement of indigenous heritage. The broader implications of these findings extend beyond the Higaonon community, offering valuable insights for global cultural preservation efforts.

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