Chapter 1: Introduction

Background of the Study

The concept of political identity has long been a subject of interest and scrutiny in various

academic disciplines, particularly within the realm of political science and sociology. Political

identity encompasses an individual's sense of belonging, loyalty, and identification with a

particular political group, ideology, or community. It plays a crucial role in shaping political

behavior, attitudes, and participation, influencing voting patterns, civic engagement, and social

cohesion within societies. However, the evolution and formation of political identity remain

complex and multifaceted processes influenced by a myriad of factors, including historical,

cultural, socio-economic, and institutional contexts.

The Province of Southern Leyte, located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines,

provides a unique and compelling setting to explore the dynamics of political identity. With its

rich history, diverse population, and distinct socio-political landscape, Southern Leyte offers a

fertile ground for investigating how individuals navigate and negotiate their political identities

amidst shifting social, economic, and political realities. Understanding the evolution of political

identity in this context requires a nuanced and interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights

from phenomenology to delve into the lived experiences and subjective perceptions of its

residents.

Statement of the Problem

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This study aims to address the following central question: How do residents of the Province of

Southern Leyte perceive and experience the evolution of their political identity over time? To

explore this question, the research will delve into the following specific inquiries:

1. What are the factors that shape the formation and development of political identity among

residents of Southern Leyte?

2. How do historical, cultural, and socio-economic contexts influence individuals’ identification

with political groups, parties, or ideologies?

3. What role do personal experiences, interactions, and collective memories play in shaping and

reshaping political identity?

4. How do residents navigate and negotiate their political identities amidst changing political

landscapes, governance structures, and socio-political dynamics?

Scope and Limitation

This study focuses on residents of the Province of Southern Leyte, Philippines, as the primary

participants. It employs a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences and

subjective perceptions of individuals regarding their political identity. The research will involve

qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, to capture the richness

and complexity of participants’ narratives. However, it is important to acknowledge that the

findings may not be generalizable to other regions or populations outside the study's scope.

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Significance of the Study

The findings of this research are expected to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on

political identity, particularly within the Philippine context. By examining the evolution of

political identity from a phenomenological perspective, the study offers insights into the

subjective experiences and lived realities of individuals in Southern Leyte. This understanding

can inform policy-makers, community leaders, and stakeholders in designing more inclusive and

responsive political processes, programs, and initiatives that reflect the diverse perspectives and

needs of the population. Additionally, the study provides a foundation for further research and

exploration into the dynamic nature of political identity and its implications for democracy,

governance, and social cohesion.

Definition of Terms

- Political Identity: The subjective sense of belonging, loyalty, and identification with a

particular political group, ideology, or community.

- Phenomenological Study: An approach to research that focuses on understanding and

interpreting the lived experiences and subjective perceptions of individuals.

- Province of Southern Leyte: A province located in the Eastern Visayas region of the

Philippines, characterized by its diverse population and socio-political landscape.

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