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Copyright: © 2022 the Author(s). This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC-
BY) 4.0 license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Published by the Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College, Ilocos Sur, Philippines
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Pasion as a Reflection of Ilokano Cultural Values and Traditions: The Case of San
Esteban, Ilocos Sur
Ryan Roi B. Domingo
1
, Melver Ritz L. Gomez
2
, Jan Rich A. Guira
3
1
Mariano Marcos State University, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte, Philippines
2
Mariano Marcos State University, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte, Philippines
3
Mariano Marcos State University, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte, Philippines
Corresponding Author: Ryan Roi B. Domingo
e-mail: rbdomingo@mmsu.edu.ph
ABSTRACT
Exploring the rich oral traditions of the Ilokanos, the study generally aimed to document the conduct
ofPasion and analyze the cultural values and traditions manifested through its performance at the locale of
San Esteban, Ilocos Sur. Further, it determined the individuals performing the Pasion, their motivations in
doing so, and the cultural values and traditions that can be manifested in the performance of the Pasion. The
study employed a qualitative research design and utilized in-depth interviewing, used secondary data, and
involved digital documentation of the performances for a span of a 10-day schedule. Results revealed that
the performers of Pasion are individuals who have free time, devout Catholics inclined to their religious
views, and those who belong to a group of people related by blood or community. Their reasons and motives
reflected cultural values such as love for the family, culture, tradition, and community. Specifically,Ilokano
cultural values and traditions reflected in the performance of the Pasion are emotional closeness and
security among the Ilokano family, commitment to a “Panata” or vow, faith and religiosity, as well as
community solidarity.
KEYWORDS
Ilokano Culture, Oral Traditions/Literature, Pasion, Narrative Inquiry
1. Introduction
Filipinos have a very rich heritage manifested in their traditions and practices as well as in their
literature which can be found widespread in the country. It is also undeniable that through a number of efforts
and ways, they give much attention to the cultivation of their arts and culture. However, as the digital age
began with emerging globalization in the 21
st
century, maintaining the arts and culture has become a perennial
challenge.
Ortega (2017)suggested that the diversity and richness of Philippine literature eventually evolved with
its history. It is said that pre-colonial Filipinos had their early forms of literature. Ortega consequently identified
the earliest form of Philippine literature which dates back to the pre-colonial times when pre-colonial
inhabitants showcased a rich past through their folk speeches, folk songs, folk narratives,indigenous rituals,
and mimetic dances. This eventually evolved with the coming of foreign colonizers such as the Spaniards, the
Americans, and the Japanese.