The Isnag Lapat System: Cultural Narratives And Indigenous Practices For Environmental Preservation

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge systems and practices (IKSP) remain an influential factor to how communities take care of their environment and maintain their culture. The Lapat System is one of the traditional practices of the Isnag people of Pudtol, Apayao, which governs the use of natural resources together with reinforcing the values of the community. Nevertheless, with modernization and social developments, passing such indigenous practices to the younger generations has become an issue of concern. This research investigates the Isnag Lapat System in Pudtol, Apayao, and discovers that it is a culturally appropriate, TEK-based system for managing natural resources that use culturally ingrained beliefs and restrictions to suggest the process of nature's regeneration and social cohesion. The findings underscore the importance for conservation of indigenous knowledge systems as a basis for sustainable environmental management and continuity of Indigenous cultures and traditions.The qualitative narrative method was taken and data were collected by semi structured interviews with the chosen community leaders and elders as well as culture bearers having knowledge about Lapat tradition. The stories gathered were analyzed through thematic analysis in order to find out the common notions and meanings that were common among the participants. It was found that the Lapat System is highly related to the ethical system termed Supdina which is informed by the concept of Annaw, Aliyaw and Ngilin. These values define the relationships between people, the society, and nature. It was also revealed that Lapat assists in the preservation of natural resources since it provides a temporary limitation of forests, rivers, and other spaces to enable the regeneration of the ecology. Besides that, the practice enhances social cohesion through the strengthening of values like respect, responsibility, cooperation, and harmony in the community. The paper provides a spotlight on the importance of recording and safeguarding indigenous knowledge systems as valuable pillars towards sustainable environmental management as well as in cultural heritage protection.