Abstract
This study investigates the socio-demographic characteristics and cultural practices of the Higaonon people in the Municipality of Impasugong, District 1, Bukidnon, with a focus on their educational interests. Utilizing a descriptive research design, the study explores the respondents’ age, educational attainment, family structure, occupation, income, and home environment. It also examines their beliefs related to key life events such as conception, birth, childhood, courtship, marriage, adulthood, death, and the afterlife. Furthermore, it assesses the extent of their interest in educating their children and explores the relationships between socio-demographic characteristics and cultural beliefs. Findings reveal that respondents range from 20 to 79 years old, with a mean age of 43.45 years. The majority are male (64.7%) and married (91.3%). Educational attainment is predominantly at the elementary level (75.3%), with a significant number of respondents living below the poverty line. The study highlights that while cultural beliefs related to adulthood and death remain strong, traditional courtship and marriage practices are less observed. Additionally, most Higaonon children attend school, benefiting from government programs such as the Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) and 4Ps scholarship grants. A significant relationship was found between educational attainment and cultural beliefs, indicating that higher education levels lead to a decline in adherence to traditional practices. These findings suggest the need for culturally responsive education programs that respect and integrate indigenous beliefs while promoting literacy and socio-economic development among the Higaonon community.
