Pagdadalumat ng Pagkatao: Intersectionality, Praxis, and the Negotiation of Muslim Identity in the Philippines

Abdul Haiy Sali; Ma. Theresa  Carlos

doi:10.53899/spjrd.v31i1.1081

Authors

Abdul Haiy A. Sali Far Eastern University Manila, University of the Philippines-Diliman https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8675-1945
Ma. Theresa Carlos University of Malta https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4409-9908

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53899/spjrd.v31i1.1081

Keywords:

Muslim Filipino, non-Muslim Filipino, identity praxis, Philippine Studies

Abstract

Muslim Filipino identity is dynamic and ever-evolving, shaped by historical, political, social, and diasporic forces. It remains entangled with colonial legacies, marginalization, and persistent othering. Historically, Muslims in the Philippines have struggled to identify with the state; in the 1980s, “Filipino” was their least preferred nationality. In today’s globalized world, the transnational nature of Muslim identity often outweighs national affiliations, reinforcing its fluidity and complexity. Thus, this study analyzes the changes and current constructs of Muslim Filipino identity in contemporary Filipino society. The study employed a qualitative research design to explore the lived experiences of ten (10) purposively selected participants—five Muslim and five non-Muslim. While the sample size is limited, it aligns with the qualitative research emphasis on depth over breadth, allowing for rich, contextual insights into their experiences. The indigenous method of pakikipagkwentuhan was used to gather data. Thematic analysis was conducted in a deductive manner based on the lens of Covar’s Pagkataong Pilipino. The analysis of data revealed the following major themes: Muslim Filipino resilience and resistance; Fluidity of Muslim Filipino identity; Challenging narratives on Muslim Filipinos; Muslim Filipinos on the duality of political and Islamic identities; Muslim Filipinos as citizens and as part of the greater ummah; and Muslim Filipino Identity in the continuum of struggle and healing. Although limited in scope, the study emphasizes the significance of political, cultural, and historical consciousness in shaping Muslim Filipino identity.

Author Biographies

Abdul Haiy A. Sali, Far Eastern University Manila, University of the Philippines-Diliman

Professorial Lecturer
Institute of Education,
Far Eastern University Manila
Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines

PhD Candidate
College of Education
University of the Philippines-Diliman
Quezon City, Philippines

Ma. Theresa Carlos, University of Malta

Alumna,
Masters in Resilience in Educational Context
Centre for Resilience and Socio-Emotional Health
University of Malta
Msida, Malta

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