Rama’: A Locally-Based Practice in a Philippine Fishing Community

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Author: Fermila Cauilan (Nueva Vizcaya State University, The Philippines)
Speaker: Fermila Cauilan
Topic: Language, Community, Ethnicity
The (SCOPUS / ISI) SOAS GLOCAL CALA 2020 General Session

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Abstract

This study looks into the Ilokano local construct rama‘, a unique locally-based technique of fishing rare species of udingan in the Northern part of Philippines, along the Magat River of Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya. The rama’ culture revolves around the best local practices of the fisherfolk community geared toward sustainable fishing practices. What makes this local culture interesting is its culturally-based knowledge engagement among the community dwellers of its contested discourses in a sustainable environment. During summertime, fisherfolk community excitedly prepares for the rama practice since it does not only recount about fishing activities but more importantly, it underscores the social milieu of community’s social reconfiguration of friendships, family, entertainment and everyday life.

It is a qualitative research using grounded theory through the narratives of the fisherfolk community which highlight the nuances, gaps and lapses of rama’ culture. This study then captures local categories and themes for a purpose of coming up of a holistic perspective of local fishing practices in the Philippines.

Keywords: Fishing community, Locally-based knowledge, Qualitative research, Rama.