Panagarem: Traditional Ilocano Courtship Songs

Abstract

Courtship in llocos is locally known as panagarem, which came from the root word arem, meaning affection, admiration or love for the opposite sex. It is a process in which a man asks a maiden to reciprocate his love resulting in formal relationship. This is basically the main focus of the paper in which the characteristics of llocano courtship as expressed by the folk songs, are abstracted in order to describe the community's identity. The paper is relevant to the present society since it presents the fine values that are continuously observed in courtship but are either modified or estranged by foreign factors. In addition, it reveals llocano identity that comprises a part of Filipino identity. Initially, related studies were reviewed. Then, folk songs were recorded (by video and audio) directly from llocos Norte in which llocano fellows were asked to perform. Upon documenting the songs, analyses based on the musical elements, and the theme and language of ·the pieces were done. Formalist and thematic approaches to the texts were applied. For the interpretation part, feminist and contextual approaches were used. Based on the study undertaken, the researcher came up with the following: First, that the Ilocano community is an introvert showing its "conservativeness" and "shyness" not because of fear in expressing self but because of fear that action might be misinterpreted. There is consideration for others' opinions. Though it gradually adapts to the changes in the environment, it does not totally go out of its way. Second, that the llocano courtship songs convey the predominance of women in society. In relation to this, there is also respect and love of parents and elders who are usually packaged with the woman being courted. Third, the llocano has a traditional quality, which is being "pakipot" that shows control of emotions. Though the lover appears to be struggling so hard, the woman is not easily carried away. Fourth, there is predominance of elements of nature such as sun, moon and flower that greatly influence man's life. Perhaps, the closeness to nature is due to the fact that being an agricultural society, most of the time is spent with the environment. Finally, the symbolic quality of the songs makes it very rich and effective. Thus, llocano folk songs are effective ways of expressing one's self particularly the inner being deeply concealed to retain the reserved image. The llocano is a person who does not openly show what he has inside but instead, convey it metaphorically and poetically. His being reserved primarily brings about his romanticism that is usually unknown to him. The characteristics established prove that there is a commonality in the traits of llocano people especially in courtship. The theme conveys the trueness and richness of culture and tradition as proven by the songs.