By Alyanna Cariño

The Sama-Bajau people have faced significant discrimination and stigmatization over the years, which has led to widespread misconceptions and negative stereotypes. Oftentimes, they have been subjected to ridicule on social media, and many people do not view them as an ethnolinguistic group that has a rich cultural heritage, but more of a nuisance to the public, or a group that is to be avoided.

With all the negative connotations that are tied to the Sama-Bajau community, most people fail to recognize the beauty in their culture. More than the notion that they are beggars and street dwellers, they have a rich cultural heritage that spans through many generations. Their community is widely known to have a deep connection with the seas and oceans, and a huge part of their cultural beliefs and practices are a reflection to their folkways.

By breaking down the barriers, we can build stronger and more inclusive communities that celebrate diversity and cultural richness while also challenging misconceptions. There are a lot of ways to do this—one of which is through the means of cultural exchange activities that advocate greater understanding and respect for indigenous communities.

With its continuous efforts in empowering the Indigenous Peoples youths, Cartwheel Foundation Inc., in collaboration with the Ateneo de Manila Junior High School (AJHS) took on the initiative to promote cultural awareness and understanding among young people from different backgrounds through “Pag-enda-enda: Pagtatagpo ng Mayayamang Kulturang Filipino,” a cultural exchange event that was attended by our Sama-Bajau learners from the Parañaque Learning Center and the Grade 7 students from AJHS.

April 18, 2023 was surely a celebration of cultures as our Sama-Bajau learners and young Ateneans participated in interactive activities that allowed them to explore each other’s cultures and traditions. The event was divided into 8 segments, which started with an opening prayer, followed by opening remarks from Paolo Ven B. Paculan, the Filipino Department Chair of Ateneo de Manila Junior High School. The event proceeded with a little ice breaker activity, which was initiated by our Bajau learners through singing of the Sinama version of “Paa, Tuhod, Balikat, Ulo.” The AJHS students then learned the words and started singing along with their Sama-Bajau guests.

During the “Tanungan” segment of the event, the Sama-Bajau learners and their parents shared personal stories and cultural practices with the students of Ateneo de Manila Junior High School. The students were given the opportunity to ask questions to their Sama-Bajau guests, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of their culture, while also learning more about their struggles.

One of the most integral parts of the Sama-Bajau culture is dance, as it reflects their collective spirit and values. During the “Pagtatanghal” segment of the event, our Sama-Bajau learners confidently demonstrated and taught their AJHS peers the Igal, their traditional dance. The AJHS students eagerly followed along and danced with enthusiasm, enjoying the experience of learning about a new culture through dance. As the event featured activities of cultural exchange, the young Ateneans also showcased their talents, prepared thoughtful mementos, and gathered resources to put together generous gift packs of school supplies and groceries for their Sama-Bajau guests. The event concluded with an exchange of gifts, where both the Sama-Bajau learners and the AJHS students happily presented their tokens of appreciation.

The event successfully highlighted the importance of cultural diversity and the value of promoting intercultural understanding among the students. It served as an eye-opener for the students and provided a gateway for them to gain a deeper understanding of the Sama-Bajau community. When asked about her thoughts on the event, Elvita, one of or Sama-Bajau learners expressed, “Masaya, dahil nakakilala kami ng bagong mga kaibigan.” (I am happy because we were able to meet new friends).

This exchange has been made possible through the hard work and support of Paolo Ven B. Paculan, Airalyn Gara, the Grade 7 team of Filipino teachers, the Culture and Collaboration Committee, the Campus Ministry Office, the Educational Media Center, and the AJHS Administration. This is just one of the many ways in learning more about other cultures and breaking down stereotypes and prejudices. By celebrating and preserving the rich cultural traditions of Indigenous Peoples, we can gain a greater appreciation for them and foster a more inclusive society.