Reciprocity System among Muslims in Southern Philippines:The Case of Mèranao Kathatabangan in Times of Natural Disasters

Abstract

This paper articulates the concept of kathatabanga reciprocity system of the Mèraneo in the context of natural disasters in Bubong, Lanao del Sur and in Pantao Ragat, Lanao del Norte. These Mèranao populated communities are vulnerable to natural disasters bacause of their geographical location. The purpose of this study is to describe the nature of kathatabanga as a Meranao mutual aid system, its notions and salient dimensions and analyze how social capital influences the observance of kathatabanga. Guided by the social capital theory and social exchange theory, this study utilized data collected from in depth interviews of 15 Mèranao, 8 males and 7 females, aged 25-70 years whose ages range from 25 to 70 years old.  Finding of the study show that that in terms of social  capital, age,gender, marital status and estimated monthly family income influence  kathatabanga. It also depends  that the Meranao kathatabanga  as a practice carriers with it a moral dimension which is part al Meranao  maratabat. It is also a way to strengthen  kinship ties and offers an  and insurance, Moreover. kathntalanga, as an ag customary pruction in perpetuated and intertwined with the social institutions in the Meranao society