Abstract:
This study sought to know how the Aytas of Porac Pampanga perceive Tsibi as a life experience
and to discover its meanings, causes, symptoms and remedies. It also discusses how the past and
present beliefs of Aytas regarding spirits taint their healing practices and rituals. Native healers,
elders and former Tsibi patients were selected to participate in the study. After obtaining their
informed consent, a pretested questionnaire that looked into their perception of the illness, their
knowledge about its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and remedy, including the rituals such as
manganito séance, was administered. In-depth individual and group interviews provided richer
information about: the activities and food dishes that may cause Tsibi; the physical
manifestations of the illness; the process of diagnosis; the medicinal plants and anitos which aid
the healing ritual; and the patients’ process of recovery. The data was analyzed and presented
using typology, event (frame) analysis, and narratology. The findings have indicated that Tsibi,
also known as “Tibi”, is a curable fever-like illness acquired through engaging in activities that
disrespects life; and neglecting the responsibility in maintaining balance in nature and in one’s
physical body. Indigenous plants, as well as vinegar, are used to treat Tsibi. Furthermore, native
healers seek the help of their personal anito, who is also their apprentice, to diagnose and treat
patients. The Aytas subscribe to two beliefs: their still enduring belief in animism and their
newly found Christian belief. These syncretized beliefs guide them in their everyday lives and
become the basis of their health practices.
