The health perceptions and practices of Lumads in Southern Philippines

ABSTRACT

The Lumads or non-Islamized indigenous peoples (IPs) of Mindanao, specifically in Maramag, Bukidnon, have demonstrated a high level of awareness of the right to health. The results of the study conducted in 2006 revealed majority of the 200 IP respondents interviewed have basic knowledge and understanding of concepts like the universality of the right to health across economic status, sex, and religion; and equality of the right to health of Christians and Lumads. Factors like exposure to the mass media and influence of the barangay health center have contributed to the high level of knowledge of IPs on the right to health, also a reflection of their assimilation into mainstream society. However, they continue to hold on to their indigenous health and treatment beliefs, practices and rituals like patronizing the services of the baylan or traditional healer, using herbal plants and medicines, and utilizing traditional structures in the community when confronted by serious health problems, and performing rituals such as the pamuhat, patawalan and talotho. Promoting the IPs right to health requires political will and commitment on the part of the State to fulfill its obligations to these sections of the population who have continuously been marginalized and discriminated by mainstream society. The active participation of the IPs and their organizations is likewise critical in the development of specific and culturally-appropriate health plans, programs and services.