Capiz folk dances: Cultural practices, promotion, and preservation initiatives

This study investigates how folk dances serve as vital expressions of cultural identity amid evolving societal dynamics. Employing an ethnographic qualitative approach, the research examined the cultural practices, promotion strategies, and preservation efforts surrounding these dances. Participants comprising three school cultural coordinators, six students, and eight tourism officers from various municipalities were selected through purposive sampling. Data gathered through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) guided by a structured interview protocol were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that each municipality has unique folk dances that reflect local customs, livelihoods, and values such as Inilusan from Mambusao, Tinolabong and Kabatingan from Roxas City, Los Palomares from Panay, Mamalagkaw from Pilar, Bilaskugay from Punta Cogon, and Eskotis from Sigma. These dances are performed during festivals, school programs, and town celebrations, embodying themes like communal bonding, agricultural life, spirituality, and colonial influences. Promotion strategies included integration into school curricula, participation in community events, and partnerships with tourism and media sectors. Preservation initiatives involved school-based cultural education, community workshops, and incentive programs such as scholarships and awards. However, challenges persist, including declining youth engagement, scarcity of trained instructors, and limited resources. The study underscored the importance of intersectoral collaboration to ensure the sustainability of these cultural expressions. It recommended strengthening educational programs, leveraging digital platforms for wider reach, and increasing government and private sector support. Ultimately, this research contributes to the discourse on safeguarding intangible cultural heritage in the face of modernization and cultural erosion.