| Abstrakt: |
This study tackles the system of pangangamuhan among the Ayta and Kapampangan families. Under this system, an Ayta child serves--without pay--in the household of a Kapampangan family for a long period of time, but receives free lodging, food, and education. The study charts the origins of this practice, situates it in the context of the literature on the Ayta, and uncovers the impact of the pangangamuhan system: changes in the Ayta's physical appearance and their concept of beauty; shifts in their attitudes to language, religion, folk beliefs, and traditions; and intergenerational conflict with their elders. This paper argues that though pangangamuhan--where the Kapampangan is called an amo (master) and the Ayta is an alaga (ward)--may appear as slavery, the Ayta also use it as a strategy to overcome discrimination and poverty. The relationship between amo and alaga entails a special bond, anchored on a deep sense of benevolence and gratitude. At the same time, while it is viewed as mutually beneficial by both Ayta and Kapampangan families, it nevertheless perpetuates a feudal and unequal arrangement. Instilling on the young Ayta the need to conform to the lowlanders standards and ways of life, it also fosters a greater acceptance of inequality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
