Nestled in the serene beauty of Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, the Sama Dilaut community stands as a symbol of resilience and cultural vibrancy. During my time immersed in their world, I was struck by the strength, artistry, and wisdom embodied by the Sama Dilaut women. These women, rooted in traditions passed down through generations, bring alive the colors, sounds, and stories of their people, shaping not just the culture but also the spirit of their community.
Courtesy of BabaiPilihan Tawi-Tawi.
The Sama Dilaut, known as the sea-dwelling “Bajau” or “Sea Gypsies” of the Philippines, carry a profound relationship with the ocean—a lifeline and a source of artistic inspiration. This relationship finds expression in the remarkable craftsmanship of Sama Dilaut women. Through intricate weaving, vibrant beadwork, and beautiful tapestries, these women create art that embodies both their cultural identity and the endurance of their community. Their art tells the story of their connection to the sea and the struggles they face in a rapidly modernizing world, all while preserving the soul of their heritage.
In our immersion, it was heartening to see young leaders from BabaiPilihan—a leadership group focused on women’s empowerment—engaging wholeheartedly with the Sama Dilaut women. Their participation illustrated the spirit of inclusive leadership, which listens to and values the voices of women. Through open discussions and hands-on activities, these young leaders showed a profound commitment to honoring and uplifting traditional practices while fostering community growth. They reminded us that sustainable progress hinges on inclusive leadership, one that celebrates the unique contributions of every member, particularly women who play vital roles in their communities.
As their mentor, witnessing these young women step into leadership roles was inspiring. They exemplify a future where leaders are both gender-responsive and gender-accountable, creating spaces where every voice is valued, especially in traditionally marginalized communities. In BabaiPilihan, the commitment to gender equity and mutual respect is more than a vision—it is a reality that these young women are striving to build every day.
Reflecting on my time in Bongao, I am reminded of my own journey with the Mangyan community in Mindoro during my internship with the Ateneo Human Rights Center in 2012. That experience, filled with lessons in compassion, resilience, and cultural humility, reinforced my dedication to advocating for communities whose voices are often unheard. My experiences with the Sama Dilaut community echo that commitment, further deepening my understanding of inclusive leadership.
Alhamdu Lillah! I am profoundly grateful for the transformative experiences with the Sama Dilaut and other communities. These moments remind me of the necessity to honor the past while supporting the present, so we may build a future that is equitable, understanding, and resilient. The Sama Dilaut women and the young leaders of BabaiPilihan have shown us that when we listen, uplift, and empower all members of society, we take meaningful steps toward a brighter future.
Taken from immersion experience of Ms. Jeanette Climaco Rojas.
