Haplos Ng Tradisyon: Exploring the Motivations of Clinically Diagnosed Patients in Adopting Folk Medicine

Abstract

The continued reliance on folk medicine among clinically diagnosed individuals remains underexplored, particularly in rural communities where cultural identity and spirituality influence health behavior. This study examined the lived experiences of clinically diagnosed individuals in Santander, Cebu who continue to adopt folk medicine despite access to biomedical care, using Colaizzi’s (1978) phenomenological method through in- depth interviews. Findings produced nine interrelated themes across the three statements of the problem. Under motivations, three themes emerged: (1) Faith-Driven Motivation, (2) Perceived Inadequacy and Procedure-Related Fear in Conventional Care, and (3) Socially Influenced Trial and Validation, reflecting the emotional, spiritual, and social factors prompting individuals to seek folk healing. Under influences, three themes were identified: (1) Spiritual and Holistic Beliefs as the Foundation of Healing, (2) Social and Cultural Forces as Influential Drivers, and (3) Personal Experience and Inner Conviction as Reinforcing Influences, highlighting how belief systems, community norms, and personal histories sustain this practice. Under impacts, two themes surfaced: (1) Holistic Restoration of Well-being; Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual, and (2) Rejection of Folk Healing After Experiential Failure, depicting both the perceived benefits and limits of folk medicine. Overall, the findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive and integrative healthcare practices.