An Ethnographic study on the economic life of the Aytas in Brgy. Inararo, Porac, Pampanga

Abstract

There is a persistent inability for the Philippines to account for the economic systems of the indigenous groups present in the country today. Through ethnographic research, this study was conducted to thoroughly explore the current economic life of the Aytas, specifically in the setting of Brgy. Inararo, Pampanga. By examining the system as to how the Aytas produce, circulate and consume products, sufficient description of the Ayta economic life was produced. This study attempted to answer the questions: What is the current economic status of the Aytas in Brgy. Inararo? What is their main mode of subsistence and how does this reflect on their way of life? Several residents in Inarao were asked about the general living conditions in the area while a total number of six (6) locals participated for a more in-depth interview on the economic life in the site. After obtaining permission from the chairwoman and the leader of the tribe, a verbal informed consent was acquired from the participants. This is in the pursuit of exploring the selected respondents’ personal perspective in the current economic activities. Upon gathering the qualitative data, the researcher then organized and classified the data according to their corresponding themes. The results showed that there are several determining factors in the Aytas’ livelihood, these are the key element that enable their production, such as settlement, environment, seasonality, social relations and human capitals. The needs and expenses of the residents were also identified to give a viable explanation for their numerous economic activities. Their expenses reflect much of their decision in their choice of livelihood and also reflect their perceived problems, coping strategies and suggested interventions.