Maguindanaon-Based Worktext and Cultural Manifestation of Grade V Learners in Buluan District

This study examined the acceptability of a Maguindanaon-based worktext and its effect on the performance of Grade V learners in Araling Panlipunan, with cultural manifestation inferred from learners’ engagement and academic performance outcomes. A quasi-experimental pretest–posttest control group design was employed, involving Grade V learners from selected schools in Buluan District, Maguindanao del Sur. The experimental group was exposed to the Maguindanaon-based worktext, while the control group was taught using conventional instructional materials. Data were collected through an acceptability survey and researcher-made pretest and posttest assessments validated by experts. The acceptability of the worktext was evaluated in terms of content quality, organization, mechanics, and overall presentation, while learner performance was measured before and after the intervention. Mean, standard deviation, and t-tests for independent and dependent samples were used for data analysis. Findings revealed that the Maguindanaon-based worktext was rated highly acceptable across all dimensions. Both groups showed improvement in their posttest scores; however, the experimental group demonstrated significantly higher gains compared to the control group. Statistical results also indicated significant differences in selected lessons, including Aralin 4 (t (82) = 2.53, p = 0.013) and Aralin 5 (t (82) = 3.54, p < .001). The results suggest that culturally contextualized instructional materials enhance learner performance, with cultural manifestation more evident among learners exposed to the worktext. The study concludes that culturally responsive materials positively influence learner achievement.