LIVED EXPERIENCES OF BADJAO FEMALE WHO ENTERED EARLY MARRIAGE: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY

Abstract

Marriage is a social institution that unites people in a special form of mutual dependence for the purpose of founding and maintaining a family (Omobola, 2013). In the year 2016, about 2% of the Philippine’s total population were already married at the age of 15 and 15% were married at the age of 18. Many of these marriages, where one or both partners were below 18 years, took place in poor, rural areas, where norms are tolerating, if not encouraging. The practice is common. The purpose of this study is to know the lived experiences of female Badjao who entered into early marriages. Badjao is a tribal group in the Philippines, also known as the Sea Gypsies.The study made use of the phenomenological approach, particularly transcendental approach, to have a better understanding of their lived-experiences as teenage wives. Self-made open-ended questions were raised during interview using interview guide. The study was conducted in Barangay Tambacan with majority of Badjao residents in Iligan City. Respondents were purposively selected based on the following criteria: (1) Badjao women who have been married at the age of 13-18; (2) married for at least 5 years; and (3) willing to participate in this study.Using thematic analysis, three solid themes emerged: (1) early marriage is dictated by culture and tradition, (2) early marriage inspired by love and intimacy, and (3) early marriage is pushed by security for basic needs. Most participants were propelled into marriage because of culture and tradition, parental pleasure and age. They fear no one would marry them at an older age. Participants perceived marriage as two people who love each other, however, some participants expressed that they opt to marry with the thought that their partners will be able to sustain their basic needs. Most participants were contented of their lives marrying at a young age. The data suggests that Badjaos need support, services and assistance in all areas of their daily living.