Healthcare Practices Of Yapayao-Isneg Tribe: An Ethnographic Study In Contemporary World
Mark Gil A. Vega1,
Nelson O. Arguilles2,
Dr. Luisito T. Evangelista3
Visayas State University, Baybay City Leyte, Philippines1
Marikina Polytechnic College,
Marikina City, Philippines2
Philippine Normal University,
Taft Manila, Philippines3
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54476/13139318
ABSTRACT
Indigenous healthcare practices played as an integral part of human evolution and development since ancient times and have been exercised in every culture around the world.Traditional knowledge and practices from Yapayao-Isneg had sustained their communities long before Westernization had any significant impact. However, they are affected by different environmental factors, especially when it comes to medical practices that affect their beliefs and traditions. This descriptive-ethnographic research was to determine the traditional health care practices and beliefs among the Yapayao living in Adams, Ilocos Norte. Informants were nine (9) elders of the Yapayao tribe. Findings revealed that throughout the life cycle, they once operated distinctly primitive health care practices, which are primarily affected by their beliefs and traditions. However, most of their old beliefs and practices are influenced by modernization. It only implies that the Yapayao are receptive to changes that may affect their way of living. More so, the government health care and educational support in their community significantly affect their present way of living. In their community, the local government discouraged them from doing their old health care practices, explicitly giving birth for safety and hygienic purposes. Despite the changes and influence of modernization on health care practices, few Yapayao still practicing their traditional exercises.
Keywords: Indigenous Healthcare, Indigenous Beliefs, Ethnographic Study, Yapayao-Isneg, Adams, Philippines