Eleventh Global Studies Conference

Abstract

Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines is known for its rich resources, its productive land, mineral resources, and most especially its people. What truly makes Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines unique is the multi-culturally diverse people who are truly proud of their unique culture. Thus, this study underscores the voices and nuances of indigenous women in sustainable watershed management in Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines. This paper is a qualitative study which uses key informants and focus-group discussions to elucidate empowerment strategies of indigenous women in sustaining watershed areas. It also uses visual methodology that further captures the ordinary lives of these indigenous women in relation to watershed management. Themes were generated from their narratives that reflect their unique strategies in sustaining watershed. By listening to the voices of women, I found out that they have unique ways of caring for the environment despite issues in climate change. Their local or indigenous strategies are connected to bigger social milieu like family, food security, and environmental protection. With all these voices coming from women, we can’t deny the fact to acknowledge and appreciate their greater part in maintaining and sustaining watershed areas.