Live Experiences of Badjao* Street Children in Cabanatuan City, Philippines: A Phenomenological Approach

Abstract

This phenomenological research examines the situation of Badjao Street Children specifically about their daily routines in the street and the culture related reason for going back in the street despite the decent life which the government has planned in their newly built homes. The study utilizes the qualitative phenomenological research and used interview guide questions and observation checklist. The findings were analyzed using ngColaizzi’s method. The results of findings show that the age of most Badjao street children ranges from 10 to 12 years old, male and are grade 3 students. Regarding their routines, they attend school, help their family by assisting in the household and by taking care of their siblings. They also go on streets to beg and ask for help, especially those who do not go to school. The routines of these children, especially begging may be attributed to the poverty which their families are experiencing when they transfer to Cabanatuan City. They are used to the works of the sea and are not used to jobs which they can do on the land. They resulted in begging since they do not know other ways of finding money to spend on their foods and other daily expenses. This research recommends intervention programs like livelihood training, values formations, and education.