Mainstream Culture and Practices to the Ethnic Conservatism of the Dumagat People of Santa Maria, Laguna

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Modernization is the world's solution for a better globalization. It is widely patronized by people of every nation led by progress and innovation. However, as it fosters the country's development, it puts ethnicities to tribal extinction and soon be only part of history books if not given proper attention by the government authorities. In this study, the researcher explored the ethnic conservatism of the Dumagat People of Santa Maria, Laguna to identify how steadfast they are when it comes to the conservation of their cultures and practices.

METHODS

In this study, the researchers applied quantitative method particularly with the use of survey questionnaire. A Quasi-Experimental design was used. It seeks to establish a cause-effect relationship among two or more variables. Prior to the conduct of the study, the researchers identified one group of respondents through purposive sampling technique. Among the group are thirty indigenous Dumagats from Sta. Maria Laguna with no specific demographic profile who responded to a set of survey questionnaires using a 5-point Likert scale. Data gathered were treated using the paired T-test statistical analysis.

RESULTS

When it comes to the extent of mainstream cultures and practices, the Dumagats are slowly assimilating to the larger accepted culture. However, the level of their ethnic conservatism is considered to be very low. Although they have been practicing their customs and traditions for centuries of generations, the late millennium had brought innumerable changes to their lives, socially and economically. Due to these rapid changes in the environment, loss of centuries old customs and traditions were held. They already set aside what their ancestors have given for them to be able to cope and survive to the changing environment. On the other hand, there's no significant relationship between mainstream and ethnic conservatism showing that the null hypothesis is true. The tremendous rise of modernization affected the way indigenous people live, removing the indigenous people from isolation to their phase of introduction to globalization.

DISCUSSIONS

The results indicated the grave need for the government's assistance to the Dumagat people, in order to achieve their basic needs without entering cultural borders. Dumagat ethnic culture will continue to vanish if the government won't respond immediately. The main reason why they assimilated to the larger culture is due to survival and the fall of isolation which is the result of urbanization.