Intergenerational Cultural Transmission: A Phenomenological Inquiry into the Experiences of an Ilokano Filmmaker
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Abstract
This study explores Ilokano filmmaking within the broader context of Philippine regional cinema, referring to film practices outside the capital, including Ilocos, Visayas, and Mindanao. Regional films, particularly Ilokano works, reflect local heritage, traditions, and history in the face of modern challenges. Through a phenomenological inquiry into the lived experiences of Ilokano filmmaker Melver Ritz Gomez, the study sought to understand “What is filmmaking to an Ilokano filmmaker?” Data were gathered through in-depth interviews, transcribed, and analysed using the six-step thematic analysis of Lindlof and Taylor (2011). The findings revealed that Ilokano filmmaking is (a) collaborative work, (b) raw and authentic, (c) a medium for storytelling, (d) awareness and learning, (e) cultural preservation, (f) intra-cultural communication, and (g) appreciation of Ilokano culture. Collectively, these themes define filmmaking as a process of intergenerational cultural transmission that preserves and communicates Ilokano identity and values. This study emphasizes that filmmaking extends beyond entertainment and serves as a vital means of cultural expression and continuity. However, the single-participant design of this study limits its generalizability. Future research should include multiple participants or comparative regional analyses to deepen the understanding of regional cinema’s role in cultural preservation and identity formation.
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