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p-Index From 2021 - 2026
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All Journal Ethnomathematics Journal
Dexter G. Gabica
University of the Philippines Cebu/University of the Philippines Open University
Arts Education Mathematics Social Sciences Other

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EXPLORING THE ETHNOMATHEMATICS IN PHILIPPINE FOLKLORE: THE LEGEND OF BAKUNAWA Dexter G. Gabica
Ethnomathematics Journal Vol. 6 No. 2 (2025): September
Publisher : Ethnomath Association in cooperation with Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21831/ej.v6i2.88776

Abstract

This study explores the Legend of Bakunawa through the lens of ethnomathematics, examining how indigenous Filipino folklore encodes mathematical concepts. Using Bishop’s six universal mathematical activities—counting, locating, measuring, designing, playing, and explaining—the research identifies culturally embedded forms of mathematical thinking within the narrative. The legend, which tells of a serpent-like dragon attempting to devour the seven moons, contains patterns, sequences, spatial reasoning, and symbolic numeration that align with core mathematical principles. Through qualitative analysis and ethnographic context, the study highlights how storytelling functions as both a cultural and educational tool, bridging oral tradition and formal mathematics education. The findings affirm that the Bakunawa myth, like many indigenous narratives, provides a culturally rich and pedagogically sound foundation for teaching mathematical concepts. These stories are vessels of mathematical knowledge, which help educators promote culturally responsive pedagogy, strengthen learner identity, and enrich classroom engagement.
Ethnomathematics of the religious beliefs and rituals of the Bagobo Tagabawa of Southern Mindanao, Philippines Dexter G. Gabica
Ethnomathematics Journal Vol. 7 No. 1 (2026): March
Publisher : Ethnomath Association in cooperation with Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.21831/ej.v7i1.95821

Abstract

This study examines the ethnomathematical dimensions of the religious beliefs and ritual practices of the Bagobo Tagabawa of Southern Mindanao. Grounded in ethnographic analysis and informed by ethnomathematics theory, it investigates how mathematical ideas are embedded, enacted, and transmitted through culturally meaningful religious activities. Drawing on field observations, elder narratives, and ethnographic and ethnomedical literature, the study analyzes ritual practices such as pilgrimage to Apo Sandawa, spatial organization of ritual spaces, healing practices involving the preparation of lana, symbolic offerings, music, and dance. Findings show that these practices embody systematic mathematical concepts including geometry, measurement, ratio and proportion, sequencing, patterning, and cyclicity. Mathematical reasoning among the Tagabawa is expressed through embodied movement, spatial design, material preparation, and collective coordination, and is inseparable from cultural values of balance, reciprocity, and harmony. The study highlights the pedagogical potential of Tagabawa ethnomathematics for culturally responsive and place-based mathematics education and contributes to efforts to decolonize mathematics education by recognizing indigenous rituals as legitimate sites of mathematical knowledge.
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