UNDERSTANDING The Extant of Tboli Traditional Games: An Ethnographic INQUIRY

Abstract

This ethnographic study explored the traditional games of the Tboli and their cultural underpinnings. We selected participants based on recommendations from the municipal tribal chieftain, IKSP team leader, and tribal leaders. Data was gathered using interview guides through FGD and IDI. Thematic analysis was done to get the core issues and dominant themes from the participants; responses. Results of the study showed that twenty-four traditional Tboli games were identified. The study identified the essential elements of each game, including preparatory activities, rules and mechanics, and logistics. On the traditional games as manifested in the lifestyle and culture of the Tboli tribe, the themes played traditional games as mirrors of daily life, transmission of cultural knowledge, assertion of tribal identity, games as carriers of values, cultural promotion amidst modernization spiritual and cultural significance, community collaboration in preservation, and alternatives to modern gadgets. On insights gained from the study, emerging themes include preservation of traditional games safeguarding cultural identity, intergenerational knowledge transmission being crucial, active community involvement strengthening cultural preservation, traditional games fostering values such as discipline and leadership, cultural education needing to be adapted to modern contexts, and deep spiritual significance being attached to traditional games.