The Problem: Ilocos Sur National High School - Senior High School

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ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
Chapter I
THE PROBLEM
Introduction
Humans are naturally directed to have personal relationship with the
opposite sex. Man desires to have a personal attachment to the woman he
loves, and vice versa. It is through this desire that he will get moving in order
to win the hand of his beloved. This initial action of a man to win his loved
one’s heart is called courtship or courting. Courtship is the action done by the
man in order to woo someone so dear to him. It is the process of getting to
know each other.
When it comes to courtship, attraction and curiosity is the point from
where it starts. Getting attracted towards members of the opposite sex means
noticing and paying extra attentions to physical attributes with pleasure and
spontaneity. Before a man and a woman enter into a relationship, the girl
needs to disclose herself to the boy at first to be able to know if the boy is
serious about her. Treating a woman well requires a combination of courtesy
and common acts of love.
Filipino culture has been known of its meaningful traditions that have,
unfortunately, changed because of Western influences over time. With all
the richness the Philippine tradition has, the best known culture of the Filipinos
is its very own harana or serenade which dates back during the Spanish
colonization
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“Harana” is a vanishing tradition of serenading prevalent in old
Philippines. During the old times and in the rural areas of the Philippines,
Filipino men would make harana (serenade) the women at night and sing
songs of love and affection. This is basically a Spanish influence. The man is
usually accompanied by his close friends who provide moral support for the
guy, apart from singing with him.
Aside from serenading or harana, there is also handing written love letter
by a suitor to get the attention of the one he likes. In the early times cell phone,
pc, tablets, and other gadgets and social networking sites and platforms are
not trendy to use for communication that is why ancient people use hand
written love letters to express how they feel towards the girl they like. In
handing written love letters, a man will write poetic words in his letter to
capture the hearts of young women.
Courting under Filipino tradition gives huge importance on the value of
respecting the woman and her family and strictly adhering with proper rules set
by society in pursuing a lady. It is a long and arduous process of winning the
heart of a woman. This practice which dates back to the Spanish times
prohibits men to be very aggressive or becoming even when they want the
lady very much. One cannot just talk and approach a lady in the street and ask
her number or address. If a young man sees a lady he likes, he should seek
out the help of a go between, usually a common friend of both family, to ask
the permission of the girl’s father whether he can visit them in their house. This
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is the gentlemanly thing to do so the parents will most likely approve unless of
course the lady is just a child.
Courtship is different for each culture, particularly that one of the
Ilokanos. In Ilocano culture, they have traditional courtship (“panaginnarem”).
This courtship was witnessed and experienced by elderlies in Ilocos Sur. The
Panaginarem is done by a Baro (young man) to the Balasang (young women)
of his choice. There are traditional ways on how a Baro court a Balasang but
those ways are almost dying and near to its extinction because this generation
does not observe these anymore.
The cultures and traditions of Ilokanos has been part of their lives,
specifically the courtship narratives that is performed by the ancient Ilocano
people. The impact of technologies of individual’s life, and the expansion of
usage of social media are the reasons why the courtship narratives of Ilocanos
have a huge development and as a result of the major change, the traditional
courtship of the Ilocanos is gradually forgotten. The ancient traditions of
courtship of the Ilocanos must continue and must be passed to the younger
generations because it is part of the Ilocano culture. The romance of the
ancients, the vitality of the said traditions, such as “panagtapat”, writing love
letters and many more is starting to disappear. These narratives of Ilocanos
must be taken cared of so that the future generations will know and continue
these cultures of Ilocanos so that it will not fade away.
Today, technology has made easy interaction even more possible. The
dawn of the internet, men and women are no longer need to be with each
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other physically or in the woman’s home to interact; it can all be done with a
simple click of a few buttons. Now taken into the context of the Ilokano setting,
changing trends and patterns are not so much different from their western
counterparts. Over the past decades, they have taken a more practical
approach towards the relationships involved in their lives due to increased use
and innovation of technology and change in social landscape.
The modern courtship has adapted itself to modern times especially with
the western influence and the advancement of technology affecting the life-
style of Filipino specifically the Ilokanos. Though the modern ways have
retained many of the main ideas from the traditional courtship setting, there
are significant differences that lead to uncertainties of effective courtship. For
example, the traditional way greatly involves the physical presence of the
pursuing male, termed henceforth as “Suitor”, since he is required to do manly
chores around the house while in the modern way advancement in technology
make it easier for the suitor to communicate with the pursued female, termed
henceforth as “Courtee”, especially through text and social media.
The traditional courtship is replaced by modern pursuit. Courtship that
this generation observed and performed is completely departed from how
elderlies observed it, before. If a man wants to pursue the woman he likes, he
must go to the house of that woman and ask the parents for permission. Now,
through text or chat they can already court the girl or be in the relationship with
the someone they like, perhaps, that is the reason why there are so many
teenagers who keep their relationship to their parents, because of that parents
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do not know and cannot appraise the man whom their child like. The old
fashioned giving letters and the serenades are not already trendy unlike
before, because nowadays there are so many social networking sites for them
to keep in touch most of the time. High technology can be considered
competitive towards the old fashioned way courting.
The present generation has already forgotten the ways and values their
ancestors had on the traditional courtship. These had been influenced by
western views on relationships and the modern views about marriage. Young
people have engaged in a relationship through social media on some people
they have not met in person. Many people also disregarded the role of the
family and community in the union of a couple. In terms of morality, many
youth, have also neglected respect for sexual relations after marriages which
have resulted mostly in fragile relationship. This context provided the
researchers the objective to explore the experiences of the elderlies on
courtship and describe their narratives to extract the social and cultural values
of the traditional practices. This study expects that the result will provide
meaningful learning and cultural appreciation among the youth. Further, the
researchers also expect more studies on the Ilokano cultural heritage for
educational integration.
Statement of the Problem
The study aimed to describe the narratives of elderlies from San Vicente
Ilocos Sur on their experiences along traditional courtship.
Specifically, the research sought answers to the following questions:

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1. What are the experiences of the informants during courtship?
2. What is the significance of courtship among the informants?
3. What social values are reflected in the traditional courtship of Ilokanos?
Importance of the Study
Realizing the objectives of this paper, the researchers intend to provide
benefits for the following: Teenagers, future reseachers, parents, and teachers
Ilokano Teenagers. This study will open the minds of the youth with how
traditional way of courtship becomes a priceless culture.
Future researchers. This study will help other researchers to conduct
investigations on other Ilokano traditional courtship performed by a suitor
before.
Parents. As nurturers of change, progress and development of the
children, this study will be a guide to the traditional way, proper way and
ethical way of courting.
Teachers. As facilitator of learning, teachers will find help in this study as
they find the difference between traditional and modern courtship.
Scope and Delimitation
This qualitative research used the phenomenological study design to
describe the lived experiences on courting among Ilokano elderlies in San
Vicente, Ilocos Sur used to perform, it also aimed to describe the three
variables, which is the experiences of the informants, significance of traditional
courtship, and social values reflected to the traditional courtship. The data
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collection was limited was to one-on-one interviews with four selected
informants. They were identified based on their popularity in San Vicente.
Analysis was limited to the data that transpired from interview.
Theoretical Framework
This section presents significant literatures dealing with the research
study.
On Ilokano Culture
According to an online article of Nunag (n.d.) he mentioned that
Ilokanos are one of the dominating groups in the Philippines. He stated in his
book that Ilokanos are unique because they have their own way of living. He
also mentioned that Ilokanos differ from how they live it and how they make it.
“Ilokanos Culture,Customs and Traditon” (2020) explains the cultures of
Ilokanos, according to it, most customs and traditions of the Ilokanos are
influence by their frugality which means the from cradle grave, the Ilokano
rituals reflect on what they believe in. Another online article “Ilocano Folk
Beliefs” (n.d.) describe the beliefs of Ilokanos according to the book Ilokano
has an elaborate network of beliefs and practices through which they deal with
the world around them. These beliefs and practices developed and nurtured by
their ancestors, guide him in going through the different stages of life. It is
possible, however, that many of these beliefs and practices are gaining less
importance among Ilokanos of today.

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On Courtship
According to Francisco (1974) Panliligaw or ligawan are the Tagalog
terms for courtship, which in some parts of the Tagalog-speaking regions is
synonymous with pandidiga or digahan (from Spanish diga, 'to say,
express'). He stated that “manliligaw” is the one who courts a
girl; “nililigawan” is the one who is being courted. He said that in Philippine
culture, courtship is far more subdued and indirect unlike in some Western
societies. He also said that if a man wants to be taken seriously by a woman,
he has to visit the latter's family and introduce himself formally to the parents
of the girl. It is rather inappropriate to court a woman and formalize the
relationship without informing the parents of the girl. It is always expected that
the guy must show his face to the girl's family. And if a guy wants to be
acceptable to the girl's family, he has to give pasalubong (gifts) every time he
drops by her family's house. It is said that in the Philippines, courting a
Filipina means courting her family as well. In his article he mentioned that
during the old times and in the rural areas of the Philippines, Filipino men
would make harana (serenade) the women at night and sing songs of love and
affection. This is basically a Spanish influence. The man is usually
accompanied by his close friends who provide moral support for the guy, apart
from singing with him. There are so many songs that the elderlies used to play
before.
Another article from Nunag (n.d.) mentioned in his article the traditional
Ilokano courtship begins with normal conversation and visits to the woman ‘s
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home where the man meets her family and get to know them more. He also
mentioned that Ilokanos are fond of having long courtships to make sure about
their own feelings for each other. The boy sends love letters to the girl daily as
a constant reminder and declaration of willingness to continue the erotic
pursuit. He also mentioned that “harana” or serenade in English is one way of
expressing love by the Ilokano.
Additionally, a research study by Guayco and Macasaet explains that
the Ilokanos have songs and dances delegated for certain situations – from
courtship to marriage. Examples of the songs are: Osi – Osi portrays the
traditional ways of courtship and Binigan – Bigat (Every Morning) is a courtship
dance depicting a boy who is in love with a girl from whom he asks pity. The
examples of famous traditional songs of the Ilocanos are also associated to
either courtship or simply the aspect of love of one another in general.
Pamulinawen (Hardened Heart) is the most popular Ilocano love song which
equates the heart of a girl, who does not heed the pleading of her lover, to a
hardened flint. Duayya ni Ayat(Love’s Lullaby) expresses a man’s tender
loving care for his ladylove to be careful in changing her mind and choosing
another man.
On the importance of courtship
According to Juguana (2010) courtship is the stage whereby both the
partners get to know each other well. Without it, you cannot know what the
person whom you are marrying likes or dislikes and other things. Courtship
period should not be too short and should not be too long. Short period
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courtship is not good because there is no time to learn each other very well.
Long period courtship is very dangerous because the spouses may bore each
other and separate without achieving their vision of marrying. Time of
courtship is time for learning each other. During this period, both partners must
meet regularly and share their ideas. As Mueller (2017) stated that it is
important to realize that the habit of courtship is essential at every stage of a
relationship. Courtship is the best way to build a relationship, and it is also the
best way to maintain a happy, healthy relationship. Getting in the habit of
courtship now, while it is fueled by intense emotion and desire, will help you
carry that habit into a relationship that lasts, which will create more emotion
and desire, which will keep the relationship exciting and fulfilling.
On the Courtship Etiquettes
In order to impress and catch the attention of the one a person you like
you must possess some basic etiquette. A man should possess manners that
will surely impress the family of the lady and so with the lady. Walton (2014)
emphasizes the etiquettes that man should possess in his article he stated that
the man should be decidedly respectful toward the parents of the woman, be
thoroughly honest and never strive to be something he was not. Lastly a
gentleman should make himself as attractive as possible and use every power
possessed, whether it be attractiveness manner, physical characteristics,
education, position, skill, and strength because it will be your advantage while
still a suitor. Walton (2014) also includes etiquette tips for a suitor to impress
and catch the attention of the one he likes. He stated that a man should
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always treat the ladies with the greatest respect, be a person with pure-minded
manly boldness, be not over-precise in your manner, be at all times, be neat in
your person, be a thorough manly man, be prudent in you proffers of love, and
lastly be polite.
According D. J. McAdam if a gentleman behaves with ease and
courtesy without a freedom or slightest approach to license in manner or
conversation: if he never speaks slightingly of the sex, and be ever ready to
honor its virtues and defend her weakness: a lady may continue to incline
towards him a willing ear. His habit and his conduct must awaken her vigilant
attention before it be too late. D. J. McAdam also stated in his article that if a
Lady is attentive to her duties: respectful and affectionate to her parents: kind
and forbearing to her brothers and sisters; not easily ruffled in temper; if her
mind be prone to cheerfulness and to hopeful aspirations; if her pleasures and
enjoyments be those which chiefly center in home; if her words be
characterized by benevolence, goodwill; and charity; then a gentleman should
not hesitate, but hasten to enshrine so precious gem the casket of his
affections. Having those characteristics in your life during courtship will give
you a better relationship towards each other. As Walton (2012) said:
“…Especially will it be to your advantage while still a suitor, to unfold
gradually the adornments of your character, making some new
favorable impression, if possible at each interview, and it will
all through your courtship, yea, all through your married life”
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Having these characteristics as a suitor, you will surely attract and get the
attention of the woman you like. As long as you carry this attributes and
characteristics through your married life, you will surely have a great and
strong relationship towards you partner.
Conceptual Framework
The conceptual framework of the study is shown below.
Figure. The Paradigm
This qualitative research described the lived experiences on
Panagarem or traditional courtship in San Vicente, Ilocos Sur through
interviews among the elderly people. It looked into their narratives of courtship
experiences, the perspectives on the importance of traditional courtship, and
the social values learned from their experiences.
Operational Definition of Terms
The following terms are defined as they will be used in this study:
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 Courtship. It is a period during which a couple develop a romantic
relationship, especially with a view to marriage
 Culture. This is a social behaviour and norms found in human societies.
 Experience. It pertains to the knowledge or skill in a particular job or activity
 Elders. It refers to a person who has a great experience in courtship.
 Values. This pertains to the characteristics that a suitor must posses.
 Significance. It refers to the quality of being worthy of attention.
 Suitor. This refers to a man who pursues a relationship with a particular
woman, with view to marriage.
 Tradition. It relates to the customs or beliefs from generation to generation,
or the fact of being passed on in this way.
Assumptions
The study is premised on the following assumptions:
1. The experience of informants, narratives of the traditional courtship and the
social values reflected to courtship of elderlies in San Vicente Ilocos Sur
can be explored using interviews.
2. The interview schedule was valid and reliable in determining the objectives
of this study
3. The participants willingly cooperate in the conduct of the study
4. The responses of informants reflect their honest understanding and
experiences on courtship.
5. The analysis of the findings is unbiased and theoretically grounded on set
parameter.
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Methodology
This portion presents a discussion of the research design, research
locale, population and sample, instrumentation, procedures, and ethical
considerations in the study.
Research Design
This qualitative research used the phenomenological study design to
recognize the lived experiences on courting among Ilokano elderlies used to
performed it also aims to describe the three variables, which follows: (1)
experiences, (2) significance of traditional courtship, and (3) social values
reflected.
The study explored the traditional ways and practices of courting that
the elderlies observed before in their courting stage. The research proponents
further examined the traditional courtship to deepen the understanding about
it. Moreover, the research proponents conducted a semi-structured focused-
group discussion with the elders who are involved in the study.
Research Locale
The study conducted at San Vicente, Ilocos sur. In particular, the study
is undertaken among the elderly men in Barangay Poblacion, San Vicente.
Population and Sample
In determining the sample size, the researchers use purposive
sampling. There are approximately 4-5 male elderlies that the researchers will
be interviewing. The elders were chosen as informants because of their rich
experiences and expert knowledge about courtship. The informants will be

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selected for the study through careful observation based on following the
criteria:
1. 70 years old and above,
2. has experienced courtship, and
3. willing to participate in the study.
The informants were presented below.
Table 1: Profile of Informants
Informants Age
A 72
B 72
C 71
D 78
The table shows that all the informants are elders. They elders were
considered because of their rich experience about courtship.
Instrumentation
The researchers used semi-structured interview to gather information
using an interview schedule about the practices of Ilokano elderlies towards
courtship.
Procedures
In realizing the objectives of the study, the researchers followed a
definite procedure which was conducted from December 15, 2019 – January
15, 2020. Specifically, the researchers observed the following:
a. prepared a content-validated interview schedule in English and Ilokano;

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b. secured permission to conduct the study from the Principal of Ilocos Sur
National High School (Appendix A)
c. met the target informants and explain the objectives, nature, and requested
extent of their participation in the research;
d. identified those who are willing to participate in the research to read and
sign the informed consent document (Appendix B);
e. conducted an interview with the proponents using an interview schedule
translated in Ilokano (Appendix C and D);
f. analyzed and interpreted the data gathered from the survey interview;
g. validated data gathered from the questionnaire using individual discussion;
h. translated the information gathered from Ilokano to English;
i. discussed the findings of the study with the informants without including
their names in the discussion to protect their identity and to affirm the
correctness of the recorded information.
j. supported the results of the analysis of the data gathered by credible
sources from the theoretical framework;
Ethical Considerations
Risks and Inconveniences
Approval to conduct this study was obtained from the panel of
examiners and the school principal of Ilocos Sur National High School and
research advisory committee which ensured that the research study
satisfactorily complied with the key ethical principles.

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Prior to the handing in the questionnaires to the informants, the
researcher discussed with them the purpose of the study and explained
confidentiality and anonymity. After they agreed to participate, an informed
consent was obtained from them. The informed consent form stated voluntary
participation of the informants of the study, including their awareness of the
purpose of the study: data collection method and utilization and duration of
participation. In addition, the participants gave consent for dissemination of
result of the study.
Lastly, the raw data gathered will be kept in sealed box and be placed
in a safe place and will be burnt a month after the writing of the research
manuscript.
Compensation
Since the participation in the study is completely voluntary, the
participants will not be receiving any compensation of any kind but will gain
insights as to the culture and traditions of the traditional courtship. Meanwhile,
the community will be given a token of appreciation through a complimentary
copy to enrich the existing knowledge on the culture. This will prompt them to
reflect and find ways on how to make themselves productive in preserving
their culture.
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Chapter II
PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
This section presents the data gathered in the research questions given
and interviews conducted.
Experiences of the informants during courtship
The informants express willingness to share their experiences during
courtship. The four informants narrated the things they usually do during
courtship.
The beginning of courtship
The four informants (informant A, B, C, and D) have similar statement
regarding when they started courtship. According to the informants they initiate
courtship when they finished their education and got a decent job. According
to them, taken singly, that in order to impress and get the permission of the
lady a suitor must have a decent job because the parents will be rest assured
that their daughter will have a husband that can support her and the family he
will be building. Informant A said that:
“Nasingpet nak idi. No nasingpet ka dagijay babbai ti umas-
edeg kanyam ken dapat ada trabaho mon sakbay ka agarem
tapno no sungbatan nakan tapos agpakasar kayo addan
to iti pangalaam iti pagpakan mo jay pamilyan”
He stated that when you are kind, you can easily attract girls but before
anything else, a suitor must have a stable job before doing courtship so that
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when the girl marries him and build a family he is capable of supporting his
family financially.
Walton (2012) mentioned in his article that a gentleman should make
himself as attractive as possible and use every power possessed, whether it
be attractiveness manner, physical characteristics, education, position, skill,
and strength because it will be your advantage while still a suitor.
As Walton (2012) said:
“…Especially will it be to your advantage while still a suitor, to unfold
gradually the adornments of your character, making some new
favorable impression, if possible at each interview, and it will
all through your courtship, yea, all through your married life”
From these findings, the researchers came up with an analysis that
some elderlies in San Vicente started to court when they finished their
education and got a decent job and during courtship a suitor must do
everything in order to get the attention and impress the woman he like.
During courtship
The researchers asked the informants on what are the things they
usually give and do to the women they like to impress and show how much
they really want her approval. Informant A, C and D, taken singly, has the
same acts during courtship. Informant A and D stated that they usually give
love letter to their wives during courtship. They also mentioned that they used
to do serenading when they courted their wives, they usually play
“Pamulinawen” is an original Ilocano folksong. It is about courtship and love.

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Some say it is the name of the girl in the song and some say that it means
‘stoned-hearted’ girl, “Kundiman” is written in tagalog. The melody is
characterized by a smooth, flowing and gentle rhythm with dramatic intervals.
It was the traditional means of serenade in the Philippines
Duayya ni Ayat” (Love's Lullaby) expresses a man's tender loving care for his
ladylove to be careful in changing her mind and choosing another man, and
“Manang Biday” is a traditional Filipino courtship serenade called “harana”.
The man is asking the lady called Biday to look outside the window and listen
to how he sings his heart out for her. This is to show respect and interest, the
women open the windows and listen to serenade. These are the songs which
they played along with their closest friends to the house of the girl.
Those are the songs that the informants usually sung during the time the
courted their wives. As informants:
“harana was part of panliligaw pero dito sa San Vicente at that time 1950’s to
1960’s nagdeclinen ti harana in the town center of the town but in the villages
adda pay laeng. Ti kangkantaen da met idi ket kundiman, pamulinawen,
minamahal kita, ken no duwa duwwaem pay. Awan dagijay barong nga
pagbadom dapat ordinary cloths kasjay ba ken dapat 7:00 to 8:00 “pm kay
mapan agharana madi ti narabii unay tah makariribok dagijay karruba da.”
According to informant A serenading was part of courtship but in the
year 1950s to 1960s the serenading declined in the center of the town but in
some rural areas they used this to court the girl. However, the traditional
serenading wherein a suitor wear the barong is not observed anymore.

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Hi. The informants also said that they visit the family of their beloved to show
respect to the parents of the lady. On the other hand, Informant C mentioned
that during courtship he usually give gifts like, love letter, fruits, and flowers
and he also visit the house of the woman to show respect to parents of the girl.
However, informant B stated that he does not give anything nor do serenading
during courtship stage. He just visits the woman in their house. Basically, the
informants show respect to the woman and to her family by visiting them in
their home.
Hi. A research study by Guayco and Macasaet (2014) explains that the
Ilokanos have songs and dances delegated for certain situations – from
courtship to marriage. Examples of the songs are: Osi – Osi portrays the
traditional ways of courtship and Binigan – Bigat (Every Morning) is a courtship
dance depicting a boy who is in love with a girl from who he asks pity. The
examples of famous traditional songs of the Ilocanos are also associated to
either courtship or simply the aspect of love of one another in general.
Pamulinawen (Hardened Heart) is the most popular Ilocano love song which
equates the heart of a girl, who does not heed the pleading of her lover, to a
hardened flint. Duayya ni Ayat (Love’s Lullaby) expresses a man’s tender
loving care for his ladylove to be careful in changing her mind and choosing
another man.
Another study on the topic by Francisco (1974) explains that if a guy
wants to be acceptable to the girls family, he has to give pasalubong (gifts)

22
every time he drops by her family's house. It is said that in the Philippines,
courting a Filipina means courting her family as well.
Through the findings, the researcher came up with an analysis that
some of the elders in San Vicente used to give and do things during courtship.
The things they usually do and give are, flowers, love letters and fruits they
used to do serenading for them to show how much they really like the woman.
Significance of courtship among informants
Importance of Courtship
The informants imparted their knowledge about the importance of
courtship. Taken singly, informants A, B, C, and D mentioned that courtship is
important because through it you will get to know if that person is really good
for you they also said that through courtship you will know if the both of you
are compatible for each other.
In fact, Juguana (2010) concluded in his study that courtship is the stage
whereby both the partners get to know each other well. Without it, you cannot
know what the person whom you are marrying likes or dislikes and other
things. Courtship period should not be too short and should not be too long.
Short period courtship is not good because there is no time to learn each other
very well. Long period courtship is very dangerous because the spouses may
bore each other and separate without achieving their vision of marrying. Time
of courtship is time for learning each other.
Through the findings, the researcher came up with an analysis that,
every elders give importance to the traditional courtship.

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On the Observation of present courtship.
Through the observation of informant, A, he broached that nowadays
courtship is departed from how elderlies performed it before. He said that
young people these days used the internet or social media to do courting. He
said that there are many relationships that did not last long because they did
not do courtship.
As Mueller (2017) stated that it is important to realize that the habit of
courtship is essential at every stage of a relationship. Courtship is the best
way to build a relationship, and it is also the best way to maintain a happy,
healthy relationship. Getting in the habit of courtship now, while it is fueled by
intense emotion and desire, will help you carry that habit into a relationship
that lasts, which will create more emotion and desire, which will keep the
relationship exciting and fulfilling.
Through the findings, the researcher came up with an analysis that,
Courtship is important but the present generation neglects the importance of it
that is why there so many relationships that did not last long.
Social values reflected in the traditional courtship
Social values present in the traditional courtship
The informants imparted their knowledge on the social values reflected in
traditional courtship. There are a lot of social values reflected in it. The
Informants shared the different social values reflected in the traditional
courtship. According to the four informants the social values reflected in the
traditional courtship are:

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 God fearing
 Respectful
 Loving man
 Persistent
 Hardworking
 Patience
 Brotherhood
According to informant B and C if suitors want to court a girl he must be a
(Maka- Diyos) God fearing man because if a suitor possesses this
characteristic he knows his limitations. Informant D shares the different values
which are reflected in the traditional courtship he said that a suitor must be
(Managrespeto) respectful to the girl as well as to her family, if the suitor does
not show respect to girl and in the family of the girl, the family will not allow him
to court their daughter. Another social values that the researcher extracted
from the informants was (Natalnek) persistent and (Naanus) patience.
According to informant D it is not easy to court a girl a suitor must have a long
patience and be persistent because in the early times suitors are being tested
by the parents of the lady for them to know if the guy is really suitable for the
lady. Informant D also stated:
“no talaga nga nagaget ka madlaw daka dagijay nagannak. Subsubkan daka
met ket no usto met lang ti ayayten ti babai, no adda kwartam atleast adda
security, haan agpukaw ti pamilya nga nasyaat, no adda potensyal mo nga
mangbyag ti pamilyam, ken syempre nagwapo ka”

25
According to him that if the suitor is (nagaget) hardworking the parents
will notice it because the parents were just testing you if you have a potential
to support the family you are going to make meanwhile informant B stated:
“You met people companionship, camaraderie, being with other people it
is part of being human”
He emphasizes that in courtship you met a lot people and make
socialized with them that is why the researchers include (manakikadwa)
brotherhood as one of the social values that can be seen in traditional
courtship.
In fact, in the article of Walton (2014) he emphasizes the etiquettes
that man should possess in his article he stated that the man should be
decidedly respectful toward the parents of the woman, be thoroughly honest
and never strive to be something he was not. Lastly a gentleman should make
himself as attractive as possible and use every power possessed, whether it
be attractiveness manner, physical characteristics, education, position, skill,
and strength because it will be your advantage while still a suitor. Walton
(2014) also includes etiquette tips for a suitor to impress and catch the
attention of the one he likes. He stated that a man should always treat the
ladies with the greatest respect, be a person with pure-minded manly
boldness, be not over-precise in your manner, be at all times, be neat in your
person, be a thorough manly man, be prudent in you proffers of love, and
lastly be polite.
26
The findings reveal that many Ilokano social values are thought through
courtship, the researcher came up with an analysis that during courtship there
are social values you can learn and use throughout your life.
27
Chapter III
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This chapter presents the summary of the study, the conclusion, and
the recommendations forwarded by the researcher.
Summary
The researchers sought to describe the experiences of informants
during courtship and the significance of courtship. The researchers also
sought to the reflected social values in the traditional courtship. An interview
schedule was used to gather data. The study was done with four (4)
participants with the questions inquired by the researchers.
After a thorough analysis and interpretations of the data gathered in this
study, the researchers arrived the following findings:
Findings
The following are the findings in the study:
1. Experiences of informants during courtship
The beginning of courtship
Some elderlies in San Vicente started to court after they finished their
education and got a decent job and during courtship a suitor must do
everything in order to get the attention and impress the woman he like.
During courtship
Some of the elders in San Vicente used to give and do things during
courtship. The things they usually do and give are, flowers, love letters and
28
fruits they used to do serenading for them to show how much they really like
the woman.
2. On significance of courtship among the informants
The researchers found out that the elderlies of San Vicente give important to
courtship because it is where couples get to know each other well.
3. On social values reflected in traditional courtship
The following are the social values that the researchers extracted from the
informants:
 God fearing
 Respectful
 Loving man
 Persistent
 Hardworking
 Patience
 Brotherhood
Conclusions
For the conclusion of the study, the researchers hereby conclude the
following:
1. The traditional courtship of elderlies in San Vicente requires time and effort
2. The suitor does all his will to court a woman.
3. The elderlies in San Vicente gives importance to the traditional courtship.
4. The courtship has its significance and on why it is being observed.
5. There are so many social values reflected in traditional courtship.

29
6. The social effect of courtship is opportunity to build stronger relationship
and to meet new people.
Recommendations
In view of the drawn findings and conclusions, the researcher
recommends the following:
1. The experiences of the informants should be written for the preservation of
the culture and for the educational purposes.
2. There should be activities like seminars that will orient the youth on the
significance of traditional courtship.
3. The youth should give importance to the traditional courtship.
4. The youth should apply the values that are extracted from the study for
educational purpose and for self-development.
5. There should be a follow up study regarding to other courtship narratives.

30
REFERENCES
BIBLIOGRAPHY
31
A. Books
M. L. I. Ingel (2002). The Iloko, National Commission for the Culture and the Arts.
WEBLIOGRAPHY
A. Online Articles
Etiquette of courtship (n.d.). retrieve at

https://www.djmcadam.com/courting.html?fbclid=IwAR1jdtHs_Fvb
XQWhFfO_QBd73qjbFh4SS0g0D1WQVPsscBrBs2Z5Nj9kKr0 on February 7,
2020
Francisco (1974) Love, Courtship in the Filipino culture. Retrieve at

http://www.seasite.niu.edu/Tagalog/love.htm?
fbclid=IwAR0JY7Eyzhbm6vRqYJecsMw6NW90cTY39Q4Je0T1BF0LP87LbPb
D1DxQRec on February 7, 2020
Guayco and Macasaet. (2014). Comparison and contrast: An analysis on

Ilocano between American English and Manila Tagalog Wedding songs.
Retrieve at
https://www.academia.edu/7931889/Comparison_and_Contrast_An_analysis_
on_Ilocano_between_American_English_and_Manila_Tagalog_Wedding_Son
gs on February 7, 2020
Ilocano Culture, Customs and Traditions (2020) retrieve at

https://www.livinginthephilippines.com/culture-and-people/philippine-
culture/culture-and-traditions/1286-ilokanos-customs-and-traditions on
February 25, 2020
Ilocano Folk Beliefs (n.d.) retrieve at

http://www.seasite.niu.edu/Tagalog/Folk_Beliefs/ilocano_folk_beliefs.htm on
February 25, 2020
Juguana. (2010). Importance of courtship before marriage Retrieve at

https://robertnjuguna-tabby.blogspot.com/2010/04/importance-of-courtship-
before-marriage.html?
m=1&fbclid=IwAR09tg1WONzFTsVu8OwHArtiy3MAp2tKNdO2O9Pxmhwefb_
1Pw_UQnUoR4k on February 7, 2020
Kundiman (n.d.). Retrieve at https://enwikipedia.org/wiki/Kundiman on

February 12, 2020
Manang biday (n.d.) Retrieve at

https://uchsmapeh.blogspot.com/2013/07/manang-biday.html?
32
m=1&fbclid=IwAR00lXTZmfDkyUPI2pbhptUh5HmmhtdfD1IcI3qx_vKZe1Exdl0
0OJr4VH4 on February 12, 2020
Mueller. (n.d.). How to Understand the Importance of Courtship in Building a

Relationship Retrieve at http://filipinokastila.tripod.com/FilSpa.html on
February 7, 2020
Nunag (n.d.) at https://dbinders.wordpress.com/2017/03/09/the-ethnic-group-

ilocanos/ on February 25, 2020
Pamulinawen (n.d.) Retrieve at

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pamulinawen_(folk_song) on February 12, 2020
Pamulinawen (n.d.). Retrieve at https://www.mamalisa.com/?t=es&p=4812 on

February 12, 2020
Walton. (2014). Courtship Etiquette for Gentleman Retrieve at

https://www.geriwalton.com/courtship-etiquette-for-gentlemen/?
fbclid=IwAR1CiZwRN26DR1u0zSJAj3_gUyLKTvs-
Nei916o5_jaC6q2qnuQDQbgGvY4 on February 7, 2020
33
APPENDICES
34
Appendix A
Letter for the Principal
35
Appendix B
Sample informed consent and Parents consent
36
Appendix C
Interview Questionnaires
1.What are the experiences of the informant during courting?
 What is your name?

 How old are you?
 How long do you live here?
 Do you have wife?
 How long is your relationship with your partner?
 Do you have any child?
 How many children do you have?
 What is the age gap between you and your partner?
2.What is the significance of courtship among the informant?
 How did you meet each other?

 How did you get her sweet yes?
 What is your age when your beloved courted you?
 What is your life when you get into relationship?
 In your time how many boyfriends/girlfriends did you have?
 What are the things that your suitor gives you to show his willingness to
get your sweet yes?
 What did you feel when you get courted?
 Do you argue a lot with your partner?
 Did your life change when you get into relationship?
 Do you think courtship is important?
3.What social values are reflected in the traditional courtship of Ilocano’s?
 How did you court her?

 How do you show respect towards you and your family?
 Do you think that because of courtship you knew that she is your true
love?
 Did the family of the lady allow you to court her when you tried to
confess his feelings for you?
 How long does it take when you courted her?
 What are the things you shown during the courtship stage?
 Did she hesitated to give her sweet yes?
 Did you get tired courting her?
 When did you get that sweet yes what do you feel?
 Do you think there are social values that are reflected in courtship?
37
Appendix D
Transcription
A. Anya dagijay napateg nga napaspasmak idi nagarem ka?
 Anya ti nagan mo?

 Mano tawen mon?
 Kasano kabayag nga agnanaed ka ditoy?
 Adda asawam?
 Kasano kabayag ti relasyon yo ken asawam?
 Adda bah ti bunga ti pinagin inyayat yo?
 Mano ti bunga ti ayan ayat yo?
 Mano t baet ti tawen yo ken jay asawam?
B. Anya iti importansya iti pinaginnarem?
 Kasano kayo nagka amammo ti maysa ken maysa?

 Kasanom naala dejay nasamit nga wen na?
 Mano tawen mo idi inarem naka?
 Anya ti kasasaad mo iddi maki relasyon ka?
 Mano ti nagbalin nga nobyom/nobyam idi kabanbanuagam?
 Anya ti inted na nga regalo idi ararmen nakatapno ited mo ti
nasamit nga ayat mo?
 Apay Importante bah ti maarem?
 Ada iti nakaro nga panagriri yo iti asawam?
C. Anya dagijay paguugali nga maipakita no agararem?
 Kaanom isuna inarem?

 Kasano ti ipakpakita na nga respeto kanyam ken ti
pamilyam?
 Ammom bah nga isunan idi inarem nakan ?
 Kinayat ba iti pamilya na idi inarem mo isuna?
 Nagduwaduwa ba isuna idi inted na dejay nasamit nga
sungbat na?
 Haan kaba nabannog nga nangpasungbat kanyana?
 Idi naalam dejay nasamit nga sungbat na anya ti nariknam?
 Adda bah kaypapanan na ti pinaginnarem?
38
CURRICULUM VITAE
39
CURRICULUM VITAE
1.5x1.5 PHOTO
PERSONAL BACKGROUND
Name : Jefferson M. Loang
Address :Anonang Menor, Caoayan Ilocos Sur

Birth Date :February 7, 2002
Religion :The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Parents :
Father :Rene Loang
Occupation :Contractor
Mother :Jennifer Loang
Occupation :Housewife
Sibling/s :Jelorie Loang
Sibling/s :Regine Mae Loang
Sibling/s :Mary Jaen Loang
Sibling/s :Rj Loang
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
Elementary : Caoayan Central School
Address : Don Lorenzo Querubin
School Year : 2009 – 2015
Secondary :
Junior High School : Ilocos Sur National High School
Address : Gomez St., Brgy. VII, Vigan City
Senior High School : Ilocos Sur National High School
Humanities and Social Sciences Strand
40
CURRICULUM VITAE
1. 5x1.5 PHOTO
PERSONAL BACKGROUND
Name : Laurence P. Arizabal
Address : San Lorennzo Ruiz Village, Pantay Daya, Vigan City

Birth Date : September 29, 2003
Religion : Roman Catholic
Parents :
Father : Jerry S. Arizabal
Occupation : Tricycle Driver
Mother : Jean Catherine P. Arizabal
Occupation : none
Sibling/s : Angelica P. Arizabal
Sibling/s : Jeramy P. Arizabal
Elementary : Burgos Memorial School East
Address : Barangay 3, Vigan City
School Year : 2007 - 2015
Secondary : Ilocos Sur National Highschool
41
CURRICULUM VITAE
PERSONAL BACKGROUND
Name : Charlie M. Cabarloc
Address : Ayusan Norte Vigan Ilocos Sur

Birth Date : February 24,2003
Parents :
Father : Rizal Cabarloc
Occupation : Constructor
Mother : Rhoda Cabarloc
Occupation : House Wife
Sibling/s : Charlotte Cabarloc
Sibling/s : Charice Cabarloc
Elementary : Burgos Memorial School West
Address : Gomez Street,
School Year : 2007- 2015
Secondary : Ilocos Sur National High School
School Year : 2016-2029
42
CURRICULUM VITAE
PERSONAL BACKGROUND
Name : Mark Joshua R. De Peralta
Address : Bayubay Norte San Vicente Ilocos Sur

Birth Date : March 14, 2003
Parents :
Father : Rodolfo De Peralta
Occupation : Tricycle Driver
Mother : Maybel De Peralta
Occupation : House Wife
Sibling/s : Rubiemay de Peralta
Sibling/s : John Loyd de Peralta
Elementary : San Vincente Integrated School
Address : Poblacion San Vicente Ilocos Sur
Secondary : Ilocos Sur National Highschool

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1

ILOCOS SUR NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL – SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

Humans are naturally directed to have personal relationship with the

opposite sex. Man desires to have a personal attachment to the woman he

man in order to woo someone so dear to him. It is the process of getting to

know each other.

When it comes to courtship, attraction and curiosity is the point from

serious about her. Treating a woman well requires a combination of courtesy

and common acts of love.

unfortunately, changed because of Western influences over time. With all

“Harana” is a vanishing tradition of serenading prevalent in old

guy, apart from singing with him.

capture the hearts of young women.

Courting under Filipino tradition gives huge importance on the value of

by society in pursuing a lady. It is a long and arduous process of winning the

course the lady is just a child.

Courtship is different for each culture, particularly that one of the

Ilokanos. In Ilocano culture, they have traditional courtship (“panaginnarem”).

Panaginarem is done by a Baro (young man) to the Balasang (young women)

does not observe these anymore.

specifically the courtship narratives that is performed by the ancient Ilocano

people. The impact of technologies of individual’s life, and the expansion of

courtship of the Ilocanos is gradually forgotten. The ancient traditions of

generations because it is part of the Ilocano culture. The romance of the

letters and many more is starting to disappear. These narratives of Ilocanos

these cultures of Ilocanos so that it will not fade away.

and innovation of technology and change in social landscape.

are significant differences that lead to uncertainties of effective courtship. For

pursuing male, termed henceforth as “Suitor”, since he is required to do manly

henceforth as “Courtee”, especially through text and social media.

The traditional courtship is replaced by modern pursuit. Courtship that

this generation observed and performed is completely departed from how

to keep in touch most of the time. High technology can be considered

competitive towards the old fashioned way courting.

ancestors had on the traditional courtship. These had been influenced by

people have engaged in a relationship through social media on some people

family and community in the union of a couple. In terms of morality, many

have resulted mostly in fragile relationship. This context provided the

researchers the objective to explore the experiences of the elderlies on

Statement of the Problem

Ilocos Sur on their experiences along traditional courtship.

Specifically, the research sought answers to the following questions:

1. What are the experiences of the informants during courtship?

2. What is the significance of courtship among the informants?

3. What social values are reflected in the traditional courtship of Ilokanos?

Importance of the Study

Realizing the objectives of this paper, the researchers intend to provide

traditional way of courtship becomes a priceless culture.

Future researchers. This study will help other researchers to conduct

investigations on other Ilokano traditional courtship performed by a suitor

Parents. As nurturers of change, progress and development of the

ethical way of courting.

Teachers. As facilitator of learning, teachers will find help in this study as

they find the difference between traditional and modern courtship.

Scope and Delimitation

This qualitative research used the phenomenological study design to

describe the lived experiences on courting among Ilokano elderlies in San

variables, which is the experiences of the informants, significance of traditional

collection was limited was to one-on-one interviews with four selected