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Modernity vs. Culture: Protecting the Indigenous Peoples of the Philippines
Authors: Michael Teodoro G. Ting Jr., Augencio C. Bagsic, Mylene M. Eguilos, Ryan Jaen, Maria Lourdes P. Respicio, Christopher Ryan T. Tan
Number of views: 789
The indigenous peoples of the Philippines (IPs) held a distinct culture before the arrival of the Spanish, American, and Japanese colonizers in the archipelago. Once, they were original settlers with revered customs and rituals. Over time, the IPs evolved into a minority group of decreasing social, economic, and political power. Gradually, they transformed into one of the most ignored sectors of Philippine society. Progress looked down on their civilization. Technology threatened their traditions. Modernity infringed on their rights. This paper examines the plight of the IPs using historical, cultural, legal, and political viewpoints. It shall gauge their current situation, and recommend viable ways to improve their present condition and secure their future.