Echoes of Fading Narratives: Protecting Mindanaoan Folklore Through AI and Dynamic Community Engagement

Mindanao’s folklore holds the heartbeat of its people’s identity, history, and values-passed down through generations by the voices of elders and storytellers. This study explores how these treasured stories continue to live on, even as modern life and shifting languages challenge their survival. Through in-depth interviews with indigenous narrators, close observation of storytelling traditions, and careful review of existing literature, this study paints a vivid picture of the current state of Mindanaoan folklore. Using thematic analysis supported by Orange Data Mining, ten key themes emerged that reveal how folklore connects communities, adapts to change, and faces new opportunities and risks. Theories on oral tradition, cultural transmission, folklore morphology, and Digital Folkloristics helped deepen the understanding of how these stories are shared and preserved. Participants spoke with pride and concern-pride in their rich heritage and concern for the younger generation’s fading connection to traditional storytelling. While modernization brings challenges, it also offers new tools like AI and digital media that, when used thoughtfully and respectfully, can help keep these stories alive. The study highlights the vital role of community involvement and education, and introduces the Mindanao Folklore Revitalization Program (MFRP), a practical approach combining documentation, technology, teaching, and dynamic public engagement. This research offers hope that by honoring tradition and embracing innovation, Mindanao’s oral heritage will continue to inspire and unite its people for generations to come.