Conceptualizing Indigenous Identity: Negotiation of Internal and External Factors for Indigenization

Abstract

This paper discussed the concept of the Indigenous Peoples based on the cultural concept of ethnolinguistics group in the Philippines that are in the level of endangerment. The objectives of this study are the following: to identify who are the indigenous of the Philippines by highlighting distinct cultures and practices of indigenous peoples such as hunting, family, rituals, and other cultural aspects; to enumerate the specific terms used by indigenous peoples related to their indigenous ways and practices; to analyze how their indigenous system and practices significant to their assertion as indigenous peoples; and to explore the issues and challenges faced by indigenous peoples in the country. The development of the identity and concept of indigenous peoples is anchored on the internal and external experiences of the community. External factors refer to social norms, standards, and policies that affect the assertion of the indigenous peoples in the country, while internal factors refer to the lens or perspective of indigenous peoples based on their organic culture and indigenous narratives. External factors include the Republic Act No. 8371 also known as Indigenous Peoples Right Act of 1997 (IPRA 1997) and other government policies, while community assertions and indigenous cultures are used as an internal basis for understanding the concept of "indigenous." The negotiation of two factors is essential to understand the concept of Indigenous Peoples. In relation community assertion and indigenous cultures, this study presented some terminologies of the unique cultures and indigenous knowledge of the Dumagat- Bulos from Sierra Mountain range of Doña Remedios Tridinad, Bulacan, Philippines.