Keeping the TAWID: Isneg Elders and Leaders’ Experiences in Cultural Transmission in Dumalneg, Ilocos Norte

The TAWID program, institutionalized by the Local Government Unit of Dumalneg through Municipal Ordinance No. 2019-02, aims to preserve and transmit the cultural heritage of the Isneg community to the younger generation. Its implementation primarily involves the Isneg elders and leaders, who serve as culture bearers and learning resources because of their expertise in Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSPs). Despite their significant roles, few studies have explored and documented their experiences in facilitating cultural transmission through the program. Therefore, this study explored their experiences and identified their recommendations for improving the program. A qualitative descriptive research design was employed. Seven (7) key informants from the three barangays of Dumalneg, namely, Quibel, Cabaritan, and Kalaw, were purposively selected and interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Thematic analysis of the collected data identified three themes: (1) roles of Isneg elders/leaders in the TAWID program; (2) challenges they encountered in its implementation; and (3) the interventions they perceived as necessary to improve the program. The findings highlighted the roles of Isneg elders and leaders in cultural transmission, while the challenges they encountered underscored the need for continued program development. The recommendations include reviewing and reassessing the program’s existing framework by the LGU, considering the participation of teachers in the program, and conducting further studies to expand the existing body of knowledge on cultural transmission and preservation program at the provincial and national levels.