THE UMAW-UMAW PRACTICE OF TAUSOG IN THE COMMUNITY OF SUCUBAN, OMAR, SULU, PHILIPPINES

The Umaw-Umaw practice is a unique tradition within the Tausug community of Sucuban, Omar, Sulu, Philippines, rooted in ancestral beliefs and practices. This study aims to uncover the cultural meaning, rituals, and beliefs associated with the Umaw-Umaw practice, exploring its contribution to the community's identity and values, and the challenges in its transmission to future generations. Employing phenomenology as its research design, this study gathered data through in-depth interviews with community members in a focus group discussion. Thematic analysis was used to identify recurring patterns and themes within the data. The Umaw-Umaw practice serves as a vital form of ritualistic healing, deeply intertwined with ancestral traditions and the avoidance of curses, ancestral lineage heritage and Shifting Priorities and Interests. The practice is viewed as an obligation to honor ancestors and ensure the continuation of ancestral customs. This study sheds light on the Umaw-Umaw practice's significance in shaping the cultural identity and values of the Sucuban community. The findings highlight the importance of preserving this unique tradition for future generations and offer valuable insights for community leaders, researchers, and those interested in understanding cultural preservation in the Philippines.