Philippine E-Journals

Blaan in Filipino Sociology: Nawáh on the Experiences in Facebook as Medium of Communication, Connection, and Memory

Jun Yang Badie

 

Abstract:

This study focuses on Blaan, an ethnolinguistic group that can be found in Southern Mindanao, in other regions of the Philippines, and in some parts of the world, who utilizes Facebook to sustain their communities. Three Facebook groups are active - Dad Blaan Level Up, Blaan Professionals, and Blaan Internationals. These groups serve as medium of communication, connection, and memory - where communicating, connecting, and recalling the personal and social experiences of Blaan happens. This paper analyzes how nawáh (goodness, will, memory) has helped the Blaan in communicating with and connecting to their stories and experiences. This paper will be a contribution to Blaan culture and Filipino society.