World Education Connect Multidisciplinary e-Publication, Vol. VI, Issue I (January 2026), pp.381-392
Authors
Jayson Carl L. Malto, Jouana Mae D. Jacobe, Angel M. Gatela, Shanel Vince D. Bajar, Lealyn P. Desdechado, Glady Gay B. Galvez, Apple Mae L. Hermosilla
Language and Literature Unit
Abuyog Community College
ABSTRACT
Filipinos viewpoint about illness shows a dualistic approach, it includes biological and supernatural explanations. These perceptions connect all throughout the country. Filipinos tie supernatural causes to conditions even when it is caused by germs, diet, hygiene and weather. Many believed that illnesses that appear all of a sudden or last a long time comes from the spirit world. This traditional view of health and disease sees illness as the result of spiritual, emotional or moral imbalances and this belief is supported by the elders and family members.
This framework demonstrates how society views health and illness in a complex way, involving both spiritual beliefs and medical theory. Many people seek different ways to stay healthy by the use of both modern medicine and traditional practices. Traditional healers, also known as albularyos who use practices which are deeply rooted in local beliefs and have been sustained across generations, remain prominent as people hold them with high respect within the community. People often consider seeking medical help to albularyos as they not only focus on physical symptoms but also consider emotional and spiritual contributing factors to illness resulting in more personal and meaningful experience to the people. On the other hand, others seek help from both conventional doctors and traditional healers as they see Western medicine and folk medicine as complementary rather than opposing approaches to health and wellness.
Keywords: barang, albularyos, illness, Explanatory Model of Illness
