Exploring the Lived Experiences of the Dumagat-Remontado Tribe Amidst the Kaliwa Dam Construction

Despite a 12.3% increase in water abstraction since 2010, water scarcity persists in the Philippines, prompting the consideration of projects like the Kaliwa Dam. Concerns regarding potential infringements on rights, environmental degradation, and threats to Indigenous communities, especially the Dumagat-Remontado tribe, have emerged. While existing studies highlight these concerns, a notable gap exists in understanding their lived experiences amidst dam construction. Additionally, most research focuses on other countries, leaving a void in understanding the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities in the Philippines. This study utilizes a phenomenological research design to explore the Dumagat-Remontado tribe's experiences during the Kaliwa Dam construction through focus group discussions with six tribe members. Participants freely express their experiences, yielding rich qualitative data for analysis and providing insights into the dam's impact on their lives and livelihoods. The data undergoes Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), revealing nuanced insights into the Dumagat community's experiences. Six primary themes emerge: fearful experiences, nature's core role, sense of loss, Dumagat-Remontados' struggles, political controversies and challenges, and Dumagat-Remontado convictions. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the Dumagat-Remontado Tribe's experiences during Kaliwa Dam construction, emphasizing the need for informed decision-making and effective mitigation strategies to address the complex costs and consequences. The findings underscore the tribe's commitment to livelihood, safety, security, and cultural preservation, with implications for policymakers and stakeholders, emphasizing the necessity of tailored support and advocacy efforts amidst infrastructure development projects like the Kaliwa Dam.