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This case study focused on the cultural preservation initiatives, the experiences and challenges faced by the community and the factors that contributed to the successful cultural preservation initiatives of the Kalagan community living in the Municipality of Hagonoy, Davao del Sur. The study utilized qualitative research design using a single case study with 1 Tribal chieftain as the main participant and the tribal youth president and a member of the Indigenous People Mandatory Representative considered as the significant others chosen through purposive sampling, utilizing an interview guide with open-ended questions. Thematic analysis was used as a data analysis tool. The results showed that the participants have cultural preservation initiatives in their own indigenous community, such as educating the youth, as education is a life-long journey, knowledge sharing through the conduct of seminars and workshops and embracing the festival spirit through the celebration of festivals. There were challenges identified in the implementation of the initiatives, to mention, passive, unwilling and resistant members, detaching and breaking away from culture and tradition and cultural erosion, cultural decline and loss. Moreover, the factors which led to the successful initiatives were the national agencies and local government support, fostering engagement and enabling participation of members and the conduct of meetings and dialogue. Collaboration between governmental and non-governmental organizations is necessary to sustain the preservation of culture. The results of the study contribute to the existing body of knowledge on cultural preservation initiatives of an indigenous community.

SDG Indicator: #11 Sustainable Cities and Communities, #4 Quality Education