Syncretization of modern and indigenous health knowledge and practices of the <i>Tumandoks</i> of Barangay Igpaho, Tubungan, Iloilo and its implications to community health

Abstract

Indigenous peoples (IP) in the Philippines are identified as among the poor and marginalized sectors. Health and nutrition problems continue to persist in their communities due to lack or absence of access to good healthcare systems caused by their disenfranchised situation. Literatures that discuss the health practices of IP groups in the Philippines, particularly in Panay Island, are limited and less popular. As an attempt to enrich the existing literatures on IP life, this study explored the indigenous and modern health systems and practices, including their syncretic characteristics that could draw out implications for community health of die Tumandoks of Barangay Igpaho, Tubungan, Iloilo. Case study analysis and methods were employed in this study which included key-informant interview and focus-group discussion. Nine community healers and tliree Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) were interviewed while eight Tumandoks participated in the FGD. This study documented four indigenous health practices: panghdof, pag-ubra, panghanggab, and pamulong herbal. The Tumandoks ’ knowledge on phytotherapy and the oral narrative of Tanyong Mangdaw were also noted in the study. The modern health practices identified were taking of medicine, going to a physician, getting vaccines, and accessing other health services at the MLGU. The identified syncretic characteristics implied that the lack of modern healthcare services in the community contributes to the endurance of indigenous health practices and knowledge of the Tumandoks of Igpaho. However, this also has detrimental effects to community health such as the prevalence of malnutrition and teenage pregnancy.