PERSONIFICATION IN CONTEMPORARY MERANAW SONGS: REFLECTIONS OF THE CULTURAL CHANGES AMONG MERANAW YOUTH

Abstract This study, titled Cultural Identity in Contemporary Meranaw Songs: A Reflection of Cultural Changes Among Meranaw Youth, examines the evolving aspects of Meranaw youth culture as depicted in their contemporary songs. The primary objective is to identify and provide a detailed interpretation of these cultural changes based on the lyrics of the songs. The specific objectives of the study are: (a) to identify the words and phrases in contemporary songs that reflect cultural changes in Meranaw society, (b) to recognize the aspects of Meranaw culture that have shifted, and (c) to explain the reasons behind the cultural changes portrayed in these songs. The study utilized a descriptive-qualitative design and analyzed the content of twenty-five (25) contemporary Meranaw songs. Three main aspects of Meranaw culture were identified as having changed: (1) the culture of clothing, grooming, and behavior, (2) the culture of courtship and marriage, and (3) moral values. The primary factors contributing to these changes include (1) family influence, (2) the influence of social media, (3) the influence of prevailing language and culture in society, (4) the impact of education, and (5) the influence of social institutions. The implications of the study include: (1) the traditionally closed Meranaw culture has become more open to changes due to interactions not only within the Philippines but also with other countries; (2) globalization has fostered an openness among Meranaw youth to new knowledge; (3) the cultural changes among Meranaw youth have made a significant contribution to economic growth; and (4) the recognition and acceptance of cultural changes by the Meranaw contribute to creative expression, which can boost tourism.