With the aim to forge a connection in exploring the integration of Indigenous Knowledge in various fields through bringing together experts, community members, scholars, and practitioners, Sorsogon State University – College of Engineering and Architecture (SorSU-COEA) faculty member Ms. Justeen Frances D. Manuel actively took part in the recently-concluded two-day international event called Contemporary Application of Indigenous Knowledge workshop organized by the Center for Taiwan-Philippines Indigenous Knowledge, Local Knowledge, and Sustainable Studies (CTPILS) at the National Chengchi University, Taiwan, where Ms. Manuel presented her study entitled: “Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices (IKSP) of the Agta Tabangnon of Donsol, Sorsogon for climate change adaptation,” held in Shangrila Boutique Hotel, Yilan County, Taiwan, from March 29-30, 2024.
During the two-day international undertaking, Ms. Manuel, under the panel of Indigenous Knowledge and Land Use Planning, presented her study on the indigenous knowledge of the Agta Tabangnon of Donsol, Sorsogon for climate change adaptation, where she tackled the various indigenous knowledge and practices that aid the indigenous communities of Donsol in combating the impacts and challenges of the rapidly changing climatic conditions. Moreover, Ms. Manuel also discussed the localized perception of the indigenous communities towards climate change.
The Panel III. Indigenous Knowledge and Land Use Planning, one of the four panels covered in the workshop, is designed to bridge the gap between Indigenous knowledge and Western science, with emphasis on the former as an equitable knowledge system and a distinctive way of understanding – not as inferior to the latter – but rather complementary to scientific methodologies. Notably, it seeks to shed light on the comparative outlook on how indigenous knowledge is both valued and integrated as well as aspires for participants to engage in mutual learning by adopting successful practices from their peers across the Asia-Pacific region.
In addition to Indigenous Knowledge and Land Use Planning, the international event also featured Panel I. Dialogue Between Indigenous Knowledge and Scientific Knowledge, Panel II. Indigenous Knowledge Research and Its Application, and Panel IV. The Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Social Dialogue at Museums, as well as panel discussions in between.
Further, the two-day international activity was also participated by selected representatives from various institutions, agencies, and organizations across the Philippines, including Western Mindanao State University, University of the Philippines Baguio, University of the Philippines Los Banos, Partido State University, Cordillera Disaster Response & Development Services, Save the Ifugao Terraces Movement, and National Museum of the Philippines.
SorSU conveys its deepest gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Stephen B. Acabado (Professor of Anthropology – University of California, Los Angeles; Chair of Archeology Interdepartmental Program; and Director of UCLA Center for Southeast Asian Studies) and Dr. Da-wei Kuan (Executive Director, Center for Taiwan-Philippines Indigenous Knowledge, Local Knowledge, and Sustainable Studies) for inviting Ms. Manuel to be part of this meaningful undertaking. (SorSU PIO & JFM)
Photo credit: Ms. Justeen Frances D. Manuel
