Cultural Preservation and IPRA: A Study on Traditional Practices and Education at Sitio Mati, Barangay Pangobilian, Brooke’s Point, Palawan, Philippines

This study examines how the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) or Republic Act 8371 of 1997 supports the cultural preservation of the Palaw’an tribe, the role of education in preservation of traditional practices and the lived experiences of the Palaw’an tribe in Sitio Mati, Brgy. Pangobilian, Brooke’s Point, Palawan. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, focus group discussions and interviews were conducted with elders, youth and community leaders. The findings show that traditional practices such as Tarek and Runsay remain important, but the involvement of youth in these traditional practices is declining due to modernization and loss of interest of the young generation. While IPRA 8371 has provided recognition, most community members have limited knowledge of the law's implementation. Cultural preservation occurs through elders and informal learning, as well as integrating traditional dances in formal education. This investigation highlights the need for stronger collaboration between schools, tribal elders and support from the government to sustain cultural practices. The recommendations include increasing the knowledge about IPRA 8371, and involving youth in cultural preservation.