In a meaningful four-day community immersion held on October 14โ17, 2025, the fourth-year BS Psychology students of North Valley College Foundation, Inc. (NVCFI) stepped out of the classroom and into the heart of the Ovu-Manobo community in Balabag, Kidapawan City. Guided by Dr. Rogelio Bayod, professor for the Filipino Psychology course, Ms. Janice R Banudan, RSW; MSSW, the Director of Community Extension Services and Ms. Sweet Honey Mae Manansala, MSPsych, RPsych, the Program Head of the BS Psychology program, the students embarked on a transformative journey to understand indigenous worldviews, healing traditions, peace concepts, and mental health perspectives through lived experience rather than lectures.
The immersion was made possible through the partnership between NVCFI and the Barangay Government of Balabag, a long-standing partner community of the institution.
Living With the Community, Learning From the Community
The students were divided into three groups and assigned to different Ovu-Manobo households, where they lived, ate, worked, and interacted with the families for the entire duration of the immersion. Carrying groceries and basic food supplies so as not to burden their hosts, the students also prepared simple tokens of gratitude for the families who welcomed them with warmth and generosity.
Throughout the four days, the learners took part in daily household routines, community gatherings, and personal conversations immersing themselves in the rhythms of indigenous life. Their academic tasks focused on specific themes, including:
- Indigenous healing and wellness practices
- Cultural conceptions of peace and conflict resolution
- Indigenous notions of mental health and well-being
- Environmental connectedness and spirituality
- Community resilience and lifeways
Through interviews and participant observation, students discovered the profound wisdom embedded in the communityโs healing traditions, rituals, and kinship systems. They learned the deeper meaning of kapia (peace), kamalengen (well-being), and the intricate balance between humans, nature, and the spirit worldโcentral elements of Ovu-Manobo culture.
Breaking Biases, Building Relationships
Many students admitted that they previously held stereotypes about Indigenous Peoples views shaped by limited exposure. But after four days of living with the Ovu-Manobo, those biases dissolved.
They were moved by the familiesโ hospitality, sincerity, and strong sense of community. The immersion fostered empathy, cultural humility, and meaningful relationships, resulting in an authentic exchange of learning. For many, it became a life-changing experience that broadened their understanding of Filipino identity beyond mainstream narratives.
Research Output and Panel Presentation
As part of their academic requirement, the students later presented their research findings and reflections before a panel on November 7, 2025. Their outputs demonstrated not only academic rigor but also the depth of insight gained through genuine engagement with the indigenous lifeworld.
The panel praised the students for their grounded analyses, respectful approach to community research, and their sensitivity to cultural contexts which are considered hallmarks of Filipino Psychology (Sikolohiyang Pilipino).
Supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The activity strongly supports several key Sustainable Development Goals, including:
- SDG 4: Quality Education: promoting experiential, culturally-rooted, and community-engaged learning.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities: bridging gaps in understanding by breaking stereotypes and promoting respect for indigenous cultures.
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being: exploring indigenous healing practices and mental health concepts.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: understanding indigenous peace concepts and participatory community governance.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: strengthening collaboration between NVCFI and Barangay Balabag for sustainable community engagement.
A Journey of Heart and Mind
The four-day immersion was more than an academic requirement. It became a formative experience that enriched the hearts and minds of future Filipino psychologists. By stepping into the margins, the students discovered that true learning is relational, embodied, and grounded in respect for cultural diversity. As NVCFI continues to champion meaningful community partnerships and culturally responsive education, the immersion in Balabag stands as a testament to the power of learning rooted in emancipation, empathy, and the wisdom of indigenous communities.
