Request Letter For Funding

16 Calamba St. Corner Halcon, La Loma, Quezon City 1114 Philippines Tel Nos: 740-4415 (res) / 726-7763 (direct line, ofc) / 721-8677 (telefax) Cellphone No: 0919-6164868 E-mail: [email protected]

April 25, 2003 Mr. Buenaventura M. Maata, Jr. Executive Director, PhilGerFund Philippine – German Development Foundation, Inc. Dear Mr. Maata: I am Maria Fatima “Jofti” A. Villena, a graduate student at Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication (AIJC). Currently, I am in my last year of finishing my MA degree in Journalism. This year, I am to accomplish my graduate thesis. For this project, I have thought of not just an ordinary endeavor but one, which can result to practical applications in the future especially in carrying out development and empowerment among marginalized people. Title of project is: An Inquiry to the Role of the Communication Systems of the Agusanon Manobos in their Social Development As a communication student, I would like to make this project as my contribution to the social development of the ethnic group, which I will work with very closely in this project. I indeed believe that communication has a vital role in the social development of marginalized people especially the indigenous, which is often the neglected part of most researches conducted even by the professional anthropologists, sociologists, academicians and practitioners of communication here in the Philippines. I intend to use culture and the arts to bring social awareness to the would be audience/readers of this production thesis. It is a challenge of this project to create a positive tone and image of Mindanao amidst all the negative events brought about by violence, injustice and poverty just recently. Progress of the project as of this time includes: gathering of materials, which provided me with basic knowledge on the Agusanon Manobos – way of life and social conditions (one of the major ethnic groups in Mindanao – the third major island in the Philippines), the theoretical concepts and perspectives to start with. These are the primary content of Chapters 1-3, which I have

2 already accomplished. I have also established a good network within the area to accommodate me during my 3-month immersion period on the latter part of this year. Official organizations (NGOs / POs) and government offices responsible for the area have already approved my study and agreed to help in the fieldwork. Thus, giving me the necessary permits. Generally, I am now beginning to prepare for my immersion. However due to my limited capacities as student and employee of a religious congregation, I am bound to seek support from funding institutions. My work alone cannot sustain the expenses I am about to spend for this project, though, I do not want this limitation to stop me from realizing my dream of helping these indigenous people to realize their potential as citizens of this country. It is in this light that I wrote this letter to you to appeal to the generosity of your organization and be assured of the following:
endeavor will be a joint effort of the indigenous community and researcher rather than the researcher monopolizing the project; will be done thru continuous consultation and I will be there only to facilitate, initiate, be a mentor and organizer of the project
guiding concepts, principles and framework used are those, which permit participation and training of the indigenous community
concepts to be developed thru the project is to be used by the community for practical application particularly in resolving social problems and conflicts
proper credit will be given to your organization especially in the output of this project
comprehensive reports will be submitted to update the organization of the project’s progress.

The project proposal has been submitted also to other funding agencies and is still awaiting for a response. I fervently pray that your organization will give my project due consideration, find time to evaluate it and sincerely hope to here a positive response. If its not too much to ask, please inform me whatever your decision will be, at least before the month of August comes so that I would be able to make the necessary adjustments. Please find enclosed papers, which contains: abstract, project description, significance, guiding concepts/principles, timetable, budget and short curriculum vitae for your guidance and reference. Thank you very much and more power! In Christ,

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Maria Fatima “Jofti” A.Villena MA student, AIJC (in case there is a need for copies of my permits and approval of the graduate school, I am more than happy to send them to you)

AN INQUIRY ON THE ROLE OF THE COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS OF THE AGUSANON MANOBOS IN SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

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ABSTRACT

An Inquiry on the Communication Systems of the Agusanon Manobos in Social Development by Maria Fatima “Jofti” A. Villena

Agusanon Manobo is the fifth largest fraction of the Mindanao “lumadnon”. But the least explored, meaning, very little has been written about them as well as the communication aspect of any ethnic group. Their plight and condition has been quite ignored by most researches and studies about them – their injustice, poverty and violation of their rights as human being.

The project aims to discover, describe and understand the role of the communication systems of Agusanon Manobos in their struggle for social development. It aspires to come to a new understanding of the relationship of communication and social development. Apart from this, traditional/indigenous communication systems, its stages and processes will be showcased and the present issues/problems confronting the community will be exposed.

Further, the project will aid in the promotion of ideas on possible strategies and formulation of theories that would help marginalized and oppressed people to realize their potentials to contribute to national development. This also will fill in the gap of research studies on indigenous people, which are usually focused only on showcasing rituals and traditional practices without offering answers on how these practices manifest the community’s sentiments and thoughts on their plights and how it is used to combat feeling of hopelessness and motivate active participation from the community.

The project will be using the methods of ethnography and socially-shared inquiry in data collection. Output will be a full-length video documentary of 1 ½ hour and profile/manual/booklet of the Agusanon Manobo – demographic, geographical, profile, facts about their communication systems and social issues.

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I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION Statement of the Problem This project aims to understand the communication systems prevailing in the area and utilized by the Agusanon Manobos, both the traditional and current forms. Moreover, the project deems to identify the major social issues/ problems besetting the community and how they act on it. Further, how are these issues manifested in communication, will be discussed. Specifically, the study aims to answer the following questions: 1. What are the communication systems prevailing in the area, both traditional and current in forms? Criteria used to identify needed communication systems for this study are: indigenous, accessibility, capable of being managed by them, participatory, capable of influencing consciousness and raising awareness, using minimum and appropriate technology, and producing change that is self-generated or anything that the community suggest to be a criteria for this purpose. 2. How do these systems work? (stages, phases, if there’s any) 3. What are the major social issues/problems confronting the Agusanon Manobo community? 4. How the community used the available communication systems to achieve their goals of social change? 5. How are the issues manifested in communication? 6. What is the relationship of communication to social change in the context of this project? (to arrive at a new understanding of the relationship)

Research Design

The project will utilize both methods of Ethnography and Socially Shared Inquiry (SSI). This combination will aid the researcher/enabler in further probing to the issues confronting the Agusanon Manobos, especially relevant to their social development. Further, with these methods, community participation is stimulated, which would lead eventually to a unified social action.

6 The plan is to undergo an in-depth study and produce a full-length video documentary featuring the ethnic group, Agusanon Manobo. Project will be done by the group themselves with the researcher/enabler functioning as “facilitator, therapist, mentor and organizer.” Pre-production stage will include sharing, brainstorming sessions facilitated by the researcher/enabler. Consensus building will soon follow after several sessions. The group will have to come-up with a unanimous decision on what to include in the documentary – issues/problems/conflicts, details of the problem/cause and effect of problem and communication systems existing and used in resolving identified conflicts. In other words, the community will be deciding on the content, key players to form the core group and delegation of tasks. Core group will undergo mini-workshops and training to facilitate their learning of concept development and video production, which includes research, writing of script, and shooting proper. This stage will particularly employ the procedures, techniques and tools of SSI. Production phase, on the other hand, is going to use the ethnographic methods, and which will therefore be included in the documentary itself. Traditional media, which are currently used, will be included in the shoot. These are the rituals/rites, dances, material culture and other visual/print presentations. Key informant and interviews with other members of the Agusanon Manobo community will also be a part of the shoot. The core group will be having their major contributions in this stage. Lastly, post-production stage will involve: evaluation of data gathered, viewing of the shot scenes, formation of the documentary and writing of script. Brainstorming sessions will again be set for these purposes. Editing will be in Manila but an initial copy will be sent for the groups approval, then, final adjustments based on the community’s suggestions will be accommodated. Audio-visual aids will be employed to effectively facilitate the smooth progress of the project and determine how far the group has accomplished. These tools are: flip charts (list of ideas), journals and diaries (written documentation of daily activities), audio tapes and cassette recorders, bulletin boards, and other visual aids). These are, of course, according to what the group will decide on what is the most effective and adaptable to their socio-economic status and attainment. In case most are illiterate, the researcher/enabler will think of other tools that can accommodate these members of the community. Reechoing of results for each stage of production is necessary to get the consensus of the community. A written report/manual and a full-length, 1-½ hour video documentary will be the output of this project. The written part will include the profile of the Agusanon Manobo, issues/problems presently confronting them and a detailed description, explanation of their communication systems. Part of the plan will be the publication of this manual. Both manual and video documentary will be translated to the Manobo language.

Research Setting

The setting of the project is in Agusan del Sur, northeastern part of Mindanao. This is found in the CARAGA Region (Region XIII). Majority of the inhabitants are the Manobo ethnic group, which is also situated all-over Mindanao. The researcher/enabler has taken particular interest in the Manobo group of Agusan, those within the Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS) near the Agusan River. This are stretches over eight municipalities namely: San Francisco, Rosario, La Paz, Loreto, Veruela, Bunawan,

7 Sta. Josefa and Talacogon. Communities in the barangays of La Paz, Loreto and Bunawan will be the primary ‘research participants’; specifically, barangay Sabang Adgawan of La Paz, Katipunana of Loreto and Mambalili and San Marcos of Bunawan. Changes in the selected barangays are possible since over-all conditions in the locality are still to be checked. Usually, AMWS experiences seasonal flooding from December to March; thus, floating communities have emerged. The researcher/enabler will also try to access these communities. Agusan Marsh is the biggest swamp forest in the Philippines, considering its vastness; significance in the environment is also high that issues on preservation and conservation are of major concern. Moreover, these issues are affecting the inhabitants; thus, protection of their rights is very important. These are some of the reasons the researcher/enabler felt significant to respond to.

Sample Size and Sample Design

Barangays especially in remote places are usually small in size; thus, all are ‘research participants’. The entire community will be asked to participate in the sharing/brainstorming sessions. The community members will be the one to choose those who will form the core group. Target participants are those pure Agusanon Manobos since population of migrants are also growing. Selection of key informants are also within the discretion of the community but will be drawn by purposive non-probability sampling method and guided by the following criteria: a. Age, if possible a member of the council of elders in the community b. Position (one who has authority in the community) c. Knowledge level (those who have the grasp on pertinent issues, communication systems and traditional practices of the community) d. Respected member of the community e. Or based on the recommendations of the community.

II. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY Studying indigenous people is an interesting and significant endeavor because of the following concepts: 1. Many of the indigenous ethnic communities have preserved their colorful, elaborate and unique institutions and cultural practices. 2. Indigenous people are considered important links to the Philippine’s past. 3. Despite what has already been written about the different ethnic communities, very little research has actually been carried out among them by way of systematic field work. The researcher’s interest to study the lives of ethnic groups exceeds from the need to identify and know their way of life. It is in relation with her deep concern for the plight of the ethnic communities in this age of globalization. Their constant struggles for self-determination moves her to somehow help them uplift themselves.

8 It is also necessary to reiterate in this proposal the contribution of this endeavor to both industries – communication and anthropology. The researcher feels that both have their own share of misgivings considering the fact that after conscientious effort of looking at related literatures and studies much are still left unexplored and the absence of significant data on the Agusanon Manobo reflect the gap. In the field of communication, very few invest on studying the communication systems, processes, structures, patterns and means of a specific ethnic group. More studies are focused on linguistics (language) but the communication systems are left untouched. Others limit themselves to describing rituals on birth, death, marriage and religion without really going deeper on discussing the symbols/codes evident on these rituals especially in dances. Non-verbal form of communication is entirely unexplored. Problems impeding the socio-economic growth of the communities and how communication is used in addressing these problems are not yet discussed. Though, the researcher is aware of the contributions of these studies but would it be more significant if these endeavors advocate social development. These kinds of research are the most appropriate forms of promoting social development since data are collected, organized and analyzed systematically through social science methods. Unless documented in a manner that is long term, there will be great difficulty to preserve and protect the interests of the indigenous people, especially those ethnic communities unknown to people. In totality, national development is at a greater risk since there is a possibility of eroding indigenous ethnic cultures as important links to the country’s past. The researcher then is conceptualizing the best means to document, to effectively inculcate appreciation and develop a sense of national history among possible readers/audience of this project. The methodologies to achieve these aims are explained further in chapter three. The findings of this project will benefit the following institutions: The academe of different communication institutions. This project will help in promoting ideas for further studies, which would open discussions on possible strategies and theory formulations. Theories, which would best apply to further understand the plight of grassroot people. Aside from this, the project offers awareness to the social problems plaguing ethnic groups and gives opportunity to conceptualize communication means of addressing issues through participation of the communities and complement other devices already present in the area. Academicians can do this through engaging themselves in projects requiring fieldwork. Then, they can handover this learning experience to their students and also let them engage in the same endeavor. Through these exercises, students will appreciate more the Philippine culture with the indigenous people as an integral part of it. The social scientists and anthropologists. This project, how small it may seem, will at least help in filling in the gap in studies regarding Philippine IP customs, traditions, beliefs and social life with emphasis given to one of the least explored area – communication. Upon looking at this project, possible researches will be on mind. Communication is a part of culture. It is a social process. Therefore, what is the best way to study communication patterns, systems, practices, structures and ways but through analysis of symbols, codes used in rituals and traditional ethnic practices or exploration of the non-verbal communication inherent in the culture or understanding how the flow of communication within this communities are done. One observation of the researcher is the little attention given to the nonverbal aspect of communication within the IP communities and how it has been utilized in their formation as one body and social development. Since this project will also discuss on the communication systems both traditional and current

9 and, which is focused more on the non-verbal expressions then it can provide ideas geared towards that direction. Future researchers. The study is helpful to future endeavors on this type of study particularly those who will focus on the communicative ways and means of ethnic groups. Bibliographical entries included in the study will be of great assistance in looking for references. The communication/media practitioners. The project will strive to be a good example in terms of standards in making a media artifact, which the media workers in the field may apply on their endeavors. Accuracy of data and implementation of correct ethical interviewing styles will be pushed for in making the project. Approaches on establishing good contact and rapport with IPs through their involvement in the said endeavor will be utilized and at the same time documented for the reference and application to reports and documentaries of reporters, directors, researchers and other practitioners. This is to make a statement that stories on ethnic communities not only their cultures but their plight as marginalized people is an interesting story and there is market for it. The viewers/readers are interested in knowing their lifestyles and conditions. This is, needless to say, that reports, articles on indigenous people are fluctuating in number over the years. News reports and feature articles on these communities must be a regular see at the “Nation” section of all newspapers or wherever they need be. Even be as a regular segment in the programs on radio and television. There must be a call to this attention. Readers/Audience. The project will provide critical awareness of the situation of the indigenous people in the Philippines, specifically, the Lumad and motivate them to contribute and take part as citizens of the country to help the indigenous uplift themselves. The Agusanon Manobos. The project will serve as good depository of information, profile of the Agusanon Manobos, their communicative systems, their situation and continuous struggle to development and preservation. Moreover, the project aims to “enable” them as a community; thus, they can have the capability to change and uplift their lives, on their own terms, and they will be able to transform themselves socially for their betterment as community. The Agusanon Manobos will have the chance to learn the “research” process through involvement since they have a big role to play in the project and eventually use it to their own benefit and be able to learn and operate communication equipment such as video.

III. GUIDING CONCEPTS Premise The ‘Era of Globalization’, that is, 21st century is characterized by: 1. The promotion of economic growth and development through technological advances. 2. Creation of the new face of capitalism – that is, all life form are commodities to be sold. The continuous liberalization of commodities through pushing forward neo-liberal policies creating “free trade” paves the way to this new face. 3. It is the interest of global economy vis-à-vis interest of local economy.

10 4. It is a violation both to the right of the people to develop on their own terms and to a nation’s sovereignty. 5. Globalization is used by those powerful to give an illusion of economic superiority and dominance to those poverty-stricken nations for the purpose of manipulation and exploitation of resources, people’s rights and labor. 6. The gap between the rich and poor widens. 7. Marginalized people becomes even more marginalized, especially the indigenous people.

With the detrimental effects, brought about by globalization, the indigenous people are now in the forefront. They are most vulnerable to its effects. Today, the issue on ‘trade-related intellectual property rights (TRIPs) looms and has add to the serious problems the IPs have to contend with. This places them and their culture on the verge of extinction. TRIPs would enable the use of indigenous people as guinea pig to experiments wherein DNA make-up will be examined and copied. In other words, they are subject for cloning. Status of TRIPs agreement is now on the table for discussions at the World Trade Organization. Where do this leave the IPs? Are they and their culture commodities waiting to be sold? In chapter one, the condition of Mindanao both as poverty and violent-stricken area was pointed out. Mindanao, bombarded with the notorious acts of violence of Abu Sayyaf and insurgency groups, worsened by the presence of the American troops and other environmental, socio-economic-cultural leaves people on the edge. Thus, various non-governmental organization civic, church and social groups have contributed their share to this battle through forums, social mobilizations, education and formation programs. Where does the part of communication or social science as discipline lies? This project, how little may its contribution be, aims to respond to this challenge. With the creation now of theories particularly focused on social change as part of its long term goal provides a strong atmosphere for enthusiasm, motivation and hope. Thus, this endeavor desires to instill in the minds of the Agusanon Manobos of Mindanao the importance of community solidarity and the strength of community enablement. This is aside from the researcher’s desire to uplift the image of Mindanao through the grassroot people - Agusanon Manobos and their struggle for determination. That, it is within them the strength, which enables them to solve their problems, in their own terms, and to answer even more to bigger challenges in the context of national development. It is by having majority of these motivated and able communities that countries such as the Philippines can combat the harmful effects of globalization. The strength of the people is mightier than the working hands of imperialism. The commitment of this project to the enablement of social development is grounded to the principles of community organizing or re-organizing, development and participatory communication. Principles and concepts of community organizing are dealt on the formation of this of this project’s foundation: to plant the seeds of motivation and confidence in the community. In this project, the engaging of the Agusanon Manobos to a ‘re-search’ process through use of their own ways and means of relating and interacting with one another. This will serve as a starting point towards continuous involvement to small but encouraging endeavors such as this.

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In the discussion of the value of communication to social development, concepts of participatory and development communication will apply since both have contributions to its progression over the years. Both, primarily, are concerned with the alleviation of the oppressed, deprived and the marginalized: their education and building up of collective consciousness.

Here are some of the guiding concepts I adopted for this research:

On Communication and Social Development According to a case study on the fisherfolks of Asian Social Institute (ASI) written by Mina Ramirez, development and communication referred to an “interactive process through, which persons or groups relate of interrelate around a common concern, enabling the self-expression and self-determination particularly of the poor, deprived and oppressed people towards a quantitative, qualitative and structural change in their lives.” In this definition of communication, the following points are considered very important and are emphasized in the administration of this project: 

Interactive process – this happens through an ongoing dialogue within the community and does not occur in a package of one-shot deal. It is free-flowing, continuous contact within members of the group. It is a collective, collaboration of exchanging ideas. It is delivery and response/feedback in a cycle – no beginning, no end.



Relate or interrelate a common concern – a community, which creates contact among its members or outsiders who share a common goal, aspiration, feeling or situation in ways or means that are accessible and innate in them and reach a consensus.



Enabling self-expression leading to self-determination – continuous contact, interaction and interrelation provides the atmosphere for self-expression leading to self-determination of resolving conflicts and addressing oppressive situations.



Towards a quantitative, qualitative and structural change – with continuous dialogical process, people’s reference to development will eventually change and go for much higher development exceeding mere economic development. The collapse of oppressive systems and the propagation of just, equal and fair structures and mechanisms in the society for the benefit of every human being.

Man is a social being, as communication is a social process. Thus, man cannot live alone but needs to interact, relate with his fellowmen to continue living and assert a meaningful existence; and, communication is that way to interaction and connection. Moreover, development of one’s self should not be taken apart from the development of the community. It should be a collective effort because every human being is entitled to one’s growth and his surroundings/’environment has to be a part of that growth. Development is for everyone and should not be selfish.

12 Therefore, social development in this project evolves around the development of a human being together with his environment and community as a whole. It encompasses the economic, moral, spiritual and cultural development.     

The ability of the human being to develop in all aspects of his being. That he is able to progress together with his community as a whole. That each member of the community has develop into this human being and are now capable of social analysis leading to the deepening of consciousness and understanding of situation. That has led the community to critical awareness and is motivated to act and address conflicts and issues confronting them. In a way, this community ‘enablement has contributed to national development.

That is social development and its entirety. The definition applied within the context of Third World realities was appropriate since unbalanced, power and economic social arrangements evolving from feudalistic structures and long colonial status are manifested in the structural dimensions in communication processes: 1 2 3

monopoly media manipulation one way ‘top down’ communication

With these patterns, it is to conclude, “majority of economically or socially marginalized people in the Third World have no access to media resources and have no control over them. Therefore, the situation calls for more meaningful communication processes: decentralized people-to-people communication; a move towards empathy, truth, sense of responsibility; and a two-way responsive flow of communication.

Development Communication and Community Organizing.

This is where the concept of development communication and community organizing as twin processes of total human development comes in. Development communication with this specific context is thus focused on empowering the marginalized. That people may express themselves as communities or sectoral groups not only to enable them to articulate their needs but to contribute to meaningful societal development is a most essential objective of development communication. Community organizing, on the other hand, is a way by which the marginalized and poor people acquire power in a society. Particularly in this project, concept of development communication will be used since purpose of study is to start a small contribution to community capability building through training and mini-workshops. While, community re-organizing will be the focused of this project. The researcher/enabler is aware of the

13 fact that the community is already organized and are conscious of their situation but due to depression and eroded motivation brought about by worsening conditions, the community was left uncertain and badly needs a perking up.

People’s Communication. In a report made by Neville Jayaweera on Folk Media and Development Communication, the part on Experiences in People’s Communication, the following reality bites made an impact an this project: 

Traditional forms of communication are by themselves not generally capable of producing social change on any noticeable scale.



Traditional forms can be harnessed for effective social change when adapted and backed by a strong motivation and social consciousness. -



Consciousness of the need for liberation is fundamental to an understanding of people’s communication. -

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awakened social consciousness and prior social impetus must precede the use of traditional forms awakened social consciousness and prior social impetus are the concomitants of a whole range of other variables such as commitment, motivation, leadership, interpersonal communication and so on

emphasis on communication, whether technology-based or culture-based in isolation from the central issues of our daily living and without taking into account our social reality is misplaced primary need is to fully comprehend and combat the various forces that comprise the oppressive systems under which we live communication is ‘people’s communication’ only when it helps expose, combat and overcome our oppression

Developing a strategy for liberation is the beginning and the essence of people’s communication. -

identifying and analyzing the situation principal communication facility available to the oppressed was face-to-face or interpersonal communication as consciousness grew and as groups solidified into cells and cells into networks, interpersonal communication was supplemented by newsletters, pamphlets, audio and video cassettes, popular theatre, song and dance but focus was on cementing solidarity; a participatory process involving the unfolding of consciousness, deeper self-understanding, community education and collective action in a cyclical relationship, a trial and error process

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consciousness and understanding developed not only through listening to lectures or by reading books (theory), but equally through active struggles, successes and failures experienced in the field (practice) choice of medium and content of communication was determined by the levels of consciousness and the degree of solidarity attained by the people role of animateur is crucial networking is important. It implied decentralization, autonomy, flexible responses and minimizing the risks of “party bosses”. It dispersed power and provided the maximum space for participation traditional communication was never a substitute for mass media central communication reality was the consciousness of the people and their mobilization for struggle. The development of the consciousness of oppressed people was not the function of communication or of technology. It was the product of animation, face-to- communication, interaction, participation, trial and error and networking tools and forms of communication were only aids to the process.

With these realities, the project focuses more on the advocacy of the people’s causes, in this case, the Agusanon Manobos. Sees the types and forms of communication as support to the process. Traditional and current forms are realized to be not in competition but to supplement each other to effectively accomplish its mission. That this project will bring awareness to the practitioners of the field to open their eyes to reality and not be deliverers of ‘empty’ information, meaning, those which do not advocate propeople causes. Practitioners who look at communication as limited to the questions of who, what, when, where, why and how; but do not expose harsh realities of why the people are suffering, passive communicators who blinded themselves of these truths. Thus, oppression remains.

Ethnography with Journalism

In the area of journalism, there is the prevailing issue on the emergence of new journalism. In the book Interpretative Ethnography, a whole chapter was given to “New Journalism” for the discussion of its points. The latter part of the chapter contains a section entitled, “Merging Ethnography with Journalism.” To define, new journalism uses both methods of journalistic reporting and narrative writings in preparing reports. In the same way as ethnographic participant observation is also utilized by journalists to gather the meanings of a particular situation or experience. With this definition, the writer’s task is to stay with the subject of the writeup over a period of time to witness the unfolding of events first hand. For the new journalist, “it seemed allimportant to be to be there when dramatic scenes took place. New journalism with the aid of ethnographic methods attempts to write about important public issues. This new type adheres to the same basic principles of traditional journalism such as accuracy and balance reporting, though with particular emphasis to avoid harm, the readers right to know certain information and the writer’s moral obligation to make public the course of action they favor. Emphasis is also given to balance truth telling against the principle of nonmaleficience, the amount of harm that will be done to an individual or an oppressed group. With the venture in writing culture, new journalism borrows from public journalism its purpose of breaking old routines and manifest a desire to connect with the people and their concerns. It writes

15 ethnographies that move people to action and work, which promote serious discussion about democratic and personal politics. The norms of journalism pave the way for public or everyday journalism that advocated democracy by creating a space for and giving a civic (public) voice to the biographically, meaningful, epiphanal experiences that occur within the confines of the local moral community. Local, participatory, civic, journalistic ethnography answers to the new readership – the biographically situated reader who is a co-participant in a public project that advocates democratic solutions to personal and public problems. The next level, transformation of public-journalism-as-ethnography answers to the following goals; thus, public ethnography. ]  Helps citizens make intelligent decisions about private troubles that have become public issues, including helping to get these decisions carried out; 

Promote interpretative works that raise public and private consciousness;



Rejects the classic, heroic model of those good, investigative journalists who “root out the inside story, tell the brave truth, face down the known public officials, expose corruption and go on crusades”;



Seeks an ethnographer and a journalist who is an expert on public life, knows how to listen, to hear and present consensus when it emerges, is also a full-time citizen and is committed to the belief that public life can be made to work;



Sees the writer as a watchdog for the local community – a person who writes works that contribute to deliberative, participatory discourse, thereby maintaining the public’s awareness of its own voice.

The discussion on new journalism and public ethnography is what the researcher means to the possibility of two disciplines, to be in linked. In communication, journalism; in anthropology, ethnography. With the condition of the times, journalism should be flexible enough to accommodate changes the same way as ethnography. Primarily, the world now in great turmoil requires certain drastic changes/measures to meet up with the fight such as overcoming stereotypes, shying away from mediocrity, adaptability, acceptance of new norms and broadening horizons of practitioners of both fields and enable a cross-over. Rigidity and adherence to strict boundaries, rules of traditional journalism go nowhere. Journalists must use more of its analytical abilities in gauging situations, which can contribute to the betterment of people being written about. Journalism is more than just a profession. It is a vocation, the purest form of public service. Public, civic, advocacy journalism, whatever labels/terms coined to it, carries a mission. Journalism can be a very good advocate of pro-people causes. Journalism should stop from being just an empty space guided by the dictates of advertising and ratings. Accurate reporting is the conduct of duty, whereas, pro-people journalism is more than just an execution of duties. Journalism should start advocating the rights of the people and must be firm in doing it. Thus, giving it a new face. While the discipline of ethnography must go far beyond the rigidity of its boundaries, to learn the rudiments of journalistic reporting and to accept that certain kinds of information are significant to the public. Thus, facilitating advocacy through formation and education.

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Role of Video as a Tool in Social Development

In this project, the researcher plans to use video as a tool for documentation. The researcher believes the potential of video as an instrument for learning and depository of culture. With video, it lengthens the period of preservation of the cultural social phenomena/processes of the community. It also encourages participation among the community members and they are motivated to act on the issues/problems confronting them because they believed on its power as a communication medium to express their thoughts and sentiments.

The book, Participatory Communication, dedicated a section on the discussion of the role of video in development communication. Video as medium was recognized for its potential to bring about conscientization, to facilitate the process of democratization and social or political change, to serve as a tool for power sharing as a means of transforming cultural values and as an alternative to television via mass channels. According to Stuart, “its multiple uses open many frontiers of helping people to change and to participate in the process of national development.” Video becomes a force for human development extending to a remarkable degree the capabilities of people for being responsible for their own lives. This encourages the strengthening of community independence, solidarity in facing the issues confronting them but honest enough to admit need for assistance. Use of video primarily is appropriate for small groups and becomes a powerful personal learning tool. The power of video feedback is unprecedented for behavior ‘mirroring’ and as a tool for gaining insights into one’s actions. This experience of the community, seeing themselves in video, has potential for having strong influence to change their frame of reference about themselves and expand their point of view. Video has been recognized as an effective facilitator of the process of participation at the grassroots.

With the medium, it can allow people to share knowledge and experience using their own initiative. People participation is highlighted; thus, it becomes a powerful factor, which brings about social change. Because of the flexibility, manageability and adaptability of video training is made easy at the local level. Most importantly, video is the link to isolated groups of people who were deprived of adequate communication with regional government. It created a network to support and encourage traditional communities in their search for human and social rights.

(Sources of these documents are properly attributed in the official thesis proposal, with 66 pages, submitted to the graduate school thru complete bibliography and footnotes. In case needed, I can also provide the copy.)

17

IV. TIMETABLE

No. 1

Activity Researching for related literature, studies and theories responsible for the construction of the foundation of the project. 

2

3

Have gathered enough related literature and theories. Related studies, despite the efforts, are a rarity. Thus, this project is considered one of the pioneering research with special focus to communication as an important factor to social development

Securing of permits to conduct a study within the area of Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS). 

4

January 2003 (1 month)

The researcher/enabler has already form a network among the working institutions, government agencies and non-government organizations in the area. -



January 2003 (1 month)

The project was already approved in the area by the authorized body: Protected Area Management Bureau-Department of Environment and Natural Resources (PAMB-DENR) and Protected Area-Superintendent (PASU). The permit was already sent to the researcher/enabler.

Establishing contacts/network within the area. 

Duration January – February 2003 (2 months)

PAMB-DENR, PASU Save Mindanao Foundation, Inc. (SMFI) Karaga Biodiversity Linkages, Inc. (KABILIN) Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS), Integrated Protected Area System-Conservation of Priority Protected Areas Project (IPAS-CPPAP)

Data were given in support of the project.

Preparation for Fieldwork 

Prepare documents: outline of project, concept paper, permit and schedule of activities within the fieldwork proper and guide questions



Prepare things to be brought in the area: logistics, other contingencies

July-August 2003 (2 months)

18

 5

and provisions for the community. Consultation with thesis adviser

Fieldwork Proper



Introduction to the community



Sharing/Brainstorming/Dialogue Sessions



Mini-workshops and training sessions with core group

August 24November 30, 2003 (3 months) August 25September 7 (2 weeks) September 819 (1 wk & 4 days) September 2030 (1 wk & 2 days)



Data collection and shooting OctoberNovember 2003 (2 months)

6

Analysis and organization of data and shoots Approval of the initial material by the community and thesis adviser

December 2003 January 1-15, 2004 (1 mo. & 2 wks)

7

Final revisions on written material; consultation with thesis adviser Editing of video documentary

Jan 16 - Feb 5 Feb 10-15 (1 month)

8

Preparation for oral defense

9

Presentation to panel (oral defense)

10

Final Revisions as per the suggestion of the panel

March 6-15 (1 week)

11

Re-echoing to community results of the project and viewing of the documentary.

March 20-25 (5 days)

Feb 16-28 (2 weeks) March 5

19

V. BUDGET Video Production Costs I. Pre-production and Production 

Transportation Allowance Round Trip Plane Ticket Fieldwork (September-November 2003) Re-echoing to Community (March 2004)

P 15,000.00 7,500.00 7,500.00

Local Transportation (bus, pump boat and motorcycle) From San Francisco-Bunawan (bus, P 40.00) San Francisco-Loreto (pump boat, P 250.00) Special Trip to Agusan Marsh (within the area) (pump boat, P 3,100.00) Barangays Katipunan, Sabang Adgawan (motorcycle, P 300.00) *Prices are dependent of weather/climate since the area is usually flooded *Total amount is inclusive of the 3-month allowance for mobilization since the researcher will be going back and forth the barangay of Loreto and La Paz 

Meal allowance

15,000.00

15,000.00 3-month contribution for meals for the host family *Eating is an affair in the culture of the Manobos



For the Core Group, 5 members 3-month travel allowance, honorarium, logistics



For the Communities Token of Appreciation, Offerings (food and medicine)



Logistics and Equipment One box blank tapes (120 minutes) One box V8 tapes for the video One box AA Alkaline Batteries

15,000.00

5,000.00

10,000.00 500.00 1,000.00 500.00

20 2 pcs. Ink Cartridge (black and white) Extra video cam battery and tripod

3,000.00 5,000.00

TOTAL

PHP 75,000

Local Counterpart 70% of the total budget.

Amount Requested to Funding Agency 

Other supplies

P 1,000.00 3 pcs. 3 pcs. 10 pcs. 1 box 20 pcs.



journal notebooks, diary 100 leaves yellow pads ballpens pencils manila papers

Contingency fund

5,000.00

II. Post Production 

Video editing

36,000.00 3 days, 10 hour each editor’s fee and editing proper P 1,200/hour inclusive of editor’s fee



Video copying (5 copies) Community Researcher School Funding Agency 1 extra copy



Binding of written report 5 Panelists Researcher School Funding Agency

1,500.00

TOTAL

GRAND TOTAL

PHP

43,500.00

PHP 118,500.00

21

CURRICULUM VITAE Personal Profile Age Birthdate Height

: : :

Hobbies

:

24 October 13, 1978 5’7”

Civil Status Nationality Weight

: : :

Single Filipino 135 lbs.

Writing and composing literary and factual articles, reading books, magazines and newspapers, watching action films.

Academic Background POST-GRADUATE STUDIES August 2000 –Present

Organization:

Master in Journalism (Candidate) Asian Institute of Journalism & Communication (AIJC) AIJC Camera Club, Student Council-Secretary

COLLEGE March, 1999

Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication Major in Broadcasting Centro Escolar University (CEU)

Achievements:

Certificates of Recognition for being a consistent Dean’s Lister, and a Features Editor of the New Academe; a directorial job in a theatrical play and in a TV production, feature category; Bronze Medalist in Leadership (Co-Curricular Activities).

Organization:

Dramatic Guild, Editorial Staff of the New Academe, Peer Counselors’ Group, Participant Media Week and Video Festival.

Employment History

22 January 2002 – Present

Media Program Coordinator Titus Brandsma Center-Media Program Order of Carmelites – Carmelite Media Ministry

Specialization: Communication research, media education and networking January 2001-December 2001 Secretary and Bookkeeper Titus Brandsma Center Order of Carmelites – Seminar House Specialization:

Reservations, bookkeeping, administrative/human resources and supervision

July 1999-October 2000

Specialization:

Junior Copywriter/Marketing Assistant SkyCom Philippines Inc. Writing copies for ads, ex-deals, business proposals, production of collaterals and POP materials and exhibit coordinator

Special Skills    

Computer literate – Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Adobe Pagemaker and Internet; Above-average typing skills; Skills in writing features, scripts, and poetry; have published several article in various newspapers and magazines; Stage acting, dancing and production skills; have performed in a major professional theatrical play.

Forums          

February 28 – March 1, 2003 January 30 – February 21, 2003 August 29, 2002 July 17, 2002 July 11, 2002 June 27, 2002 June 7, 2002 May 12, 2002 May 5, 2002 1998-1999

Conference on WTO Globalization and War Journalism Seminar Solidarity Forum for Peace and Justice in Mindoro A Reflection Forum on the National Situation Cry Out Now! Peace Forum Jaime V. Ongpin Journalism Seminar Global Communication 36th World Communication Sunday Forum on Palestine-Israel Conflict Internship, DWWW 774 and IBC 13

References Mr. Ramon Tuazon, Acting President of AIJC Ms. Cora Arboleda, Thesis Adviser & Professor of AIJC

Ms. Carrie de Leon, Registrar of AIJC Asian Institute of Journalism

23 and Communication (AIJC) Unit 801 & 902 Annapolis Wilshire Plaza

11 Annapolis St., Greenhills, San Juan Tel. Nos.: 725-4227to 28 / 725-4564 / 724-4604