Exploring the Understanding of Ilocano Culture among the younger generation

Chapter 1: Introduction

The Ilocanos are one of the largest ethnic groups in the Philippines, with a rich and
distinct cultural heritage. The Ilocano culture is characterized by its unique language,
customs, traditions, and beliefs, which have been passed down from generation to
generation. However, with the rapid globalization and modernization of society, there
is a growing concern that the younger generation of Ilocanos may be losing their
connection to their cultural roots. Ilocano culture has been present in the Philippines
for centuries and is deeply embedded in the country's history. Despite its long-
standing presence, there has been increasing concern about the preservation of Ilocano
culture among the younger generations.

A study conducted by Salazar (2020) aimed to determine the level of awareness of

Ilocano culture amongst high school students. The study found that while the majority
of the students have some level of familiarity with Ilocano customs, beliefs, and
traditions, their overall understanding and appreciation of the culture was limited. The
study attributed this to the lack of formal education on Ilocano culture in schools and
the limited exposure to the culture outside of the classroom.

In another study, Baclayon (2021) explored the factors that influence the awareness of
Ilocano culture amongst young people. The study found that family background,
exposure to traditional events, and access to cultural resources were key factors in
shaping the awareness of Ilocano culture amongst teenagers. The study also
highlighted the importance of cultural education in schools as a means of promoting
cultural awareness and appreciation.

A study by Gonzales (2022) investigated the role of media in shaping the awareness
of Ilocano culture amongst teenagers. The study found that traditional media such as
radio, television, and print media play a limited role in promoting Ilocano culture
amongst the youth. However, the study also noted the increasing influence of social
media in shaping the cultural awareness and practices of young people.

The studies reviewed indicate that the level of awareness of Ilocano culture amongst
teenagers is limited, but can be improved through cultural education in schools,
exposure to traditional events, and access to cultural resources. Additionally, the role
of media in shaping cultural awareness amongst the youth is significant, and its
impact is likely to increase with the growing influence of social media.

One of the primary gaps identified is the loss of the Ilocano language among younger
generations. Many young people have grown up speaking primarily English or
Filipino, and may have limited exposure to Ilocano language and culture. This can
create a disconnect between generations, as older family members may primarily
speak Ilocano. Many younger Ilocanos may also have a limited understanding of
traditional Ilocano customs and beliefs. This can include knowledge of traditional
foods, dances, and celebrations, as well as a lack of understanding of traditional
Ilocano beliefs about family, community, and spirituality. Finally, there may be a gap
in communication between younger and older generations regarding Ilocano culture.
This can make it difficult for younger people to learn from their elders and for elders
to pass down their knowledge and traditions.

This research aims to investigate the current level of knowledge and awareness of
Ilocano culture among young people, and to identify areas where further education
and promotion may be needed to increase their understanding and appreciation of
their heritage. This research also aims to to identify the challenges facing the
transmission of Ilocano culture to younger generations, and to develop strategies to
address these challenges.

The transmission of Ilocano culture to younger generations may be negatively

impacted by the increasing influence of mainstream media and popular culture, which
may lead young people to prioritize and identify more with non-Ilocano cultural
practices and beliefs. Exposure to Ilocano cultural practices and traditions will
increase young people's sense of connection to their cultural heritage. The
transmission of Ilocano culture to younger generations may be influenced by factors
such as urbanization, globalization, and the availability of digital media.
Younger generations may have different attitudes and values regarding Ilocano
culture compared to older generations, which may impact the way that cultural
traditions are transmitted and practiced. Intergenerational communication and
collaboration are important factors in preserving and promoting Ilocano culture
among younger generations.

Chapter 1: Theoretical/Conceptual Framework

This study is anchored on the theory which HT Trueba, L Jacobs, and E Kirton (2014)
developed. According to the notion, they uncovered interesting facts about the
adaptations of traditional Ilocano practices in modern society. The Ilocano people of
the Philippines valued cultural practices like family gatherings, music, and
storytelling to pass down values and traditions to the next generation. The authors
found that, as with many cultures, some of the traditional practices have been adapted
in modern society. For example, family gatherings are now often held in public
places, such as parks or restaurants, and digital tools, such as instant messaging, are
now used to facilitate communication. Additionally, the authors found that music and
storytelling still play a major role in modern Ilocano culture, but they are often used to
express political and social values in addition to traditional values. The authors
concluded that, while some traditional practices have been adapted in modern society,
they still remain deeply entrenched in Ilocano culture.

This theory is connected to our study because it demonstrates the resilience of

traditional practices in the face of modernization and globalization.
The examination of the role of language in connecting young people to their Ilocano
heritage is an incredibly important topic given the waning use of the Ilocano language
in recent years. As the younger generation becomes more exposed to the larger
Filipino culture, their understanding of and engagement with their own culture is
becoming less distinct and more blended. This is due to a variety of factors, such as
the increasing popularity of Filipino media and entertainment, as well as the growing
number of young Ilocanos who are attending school outside of their home province.
This is leading to a more homogenized view of Filipino culture, with the Ilocano
culture becoming more integrated with the larger Filipino culture.

Chapter 1: Statement of the Problem

Despite the rich cultural heritage of the Ilocano people, there is a growing concern
that the younger generation may be losing their understanding and appreciation of this
culture. With the influence of modernization, westernization, and globalization, there
is a need to explore the understanding of Ilocano culture among the younger
generation.
Specifically, it will seek to answer the following questions:
1. What Ilocano culture do they still practice?
2. How can the older generations better engage with and educate younger Ilocanos
about their cultural heritage, while also allowing for the evolution and adaptation of
Ilocano culture in the modern world?
3. How do younger Ilocanos balance their Ilocano cultural identity with their
participation in mainstream Filipino culture?

Chapter 1: Assumption of the study

1. There is a potential knowledge gap between younger generations and their elders in
terms of understanding and practicing traditional Ilocano customs, practices, and
beliefs.
2. The study may assume that younger generations are more influenced by modern
and Westernized culture, which may lead to a lack of interest or investment in
preserving Ilocano culture.
3. The younger generation may face challenges in accessing and understanding
traditional Ilocano materials, such as literature, music, and artifacts.

Chapter 1: Scope and delimination

The scope of this study is focused on the understanding of Grade 11 Ilocano

students whose both parents are Ilocano, regarding their knowledge about their
culture. This study will be limited to Ilocanos and will focus on younger generations
between the ages 14-17 years old to explore their understanding and perception of
Ilocano Culture. The study will focus on specific aspects of Ilocano culture and will
not delve into other aspects of Filipino culture outside of Isabela.

Chapter 1: Significance of the study

In this study, it is aimed to give valuable information about the understanding

of Grade 11 Ilocano students of UPHSL-IC regarding Ilocano Cultural heritage. The
following are the possible beneficiaries:
For students, the results of this study will help students understand the
importance of preserving Ilocano culture and heritage, which is an essential aspect of
Filipino culture. Students will learn the significance of cultural identity and how
cultural preservation is essential in maintaining a community's unique cultural
heritage.
 For teachers, this will help teachers who work with students from diverse
cultural backgrounds gain a deeper understanding of Ilocano culture, which will
enable them to develop cultural competence. Cultural competence is the ability to
effectively work with individuals from different cultures, and it involves
understanding cultural differences and similarities, recognizing and addressing
cultural biases, and adapting to diverse cultural practices.
For future researchers, The study can serve as a basis for further research on
Ilocano culture, including studies that examine the impact of cultural understanding
and preservation on individual and community well-being. Future researchers can
build on the study's findings and investigate different aspects of Ilocano culture, such
as the role of cultural preservation in health and wellness or the influence of
globalization on Ilocano cultural practices.

Chapter 1: Definition of terms

The following terms are either defined conceptually or operationally:

Cultural Identity- refers to a person's sense of belonging to a particular culture or
group, and the cultural values, beliefs, practices, and traditions that they share with
that group.
Culture- refers to the shared beliefs, values, customs, behaviors, and artifacts that
characterize a group or society.
Globalization- refers to the process of increasing interconnectedness and
interdependence among people, businesses, and countries worldwide, facilitated by
advancements in technology, transportation, and communication. It is characterized
by the rapid flow of goods, capital, ideas, and people across borders, resulting in
increased economic, cultural, and political integration.
Modernization- refers to the process of societal transformation that involves the
adoption of new technologies, institutions, and values.
Westernization- is the process of adopting Western culture and values, such as those
of the United States and Europe, or the spread of such culture and values around the
world.
High-School Students- are students who are enrolled in a secondary educational
institution and typically range in age from 14 to 18.
Younger Generations- is a term used to refer to people born after 2000, generally
from the ages of 13-25
Ilocano Culture- is the culture of the people from the Ilocos region in the
Philippines.
Mainstream Media- refers to large-scale media outlets that reach a wide audience
and are generally considered to be part of the dominant or mainstream culture.
Ilocano people- an ethnic group native to the northern Philippines, particularly in the
Ilocos Region