Abstract
This phenomenological study aims to capture the experiences of Aetas since the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo. Six (6) tribal elders who have experienced the cataclysmic event were interviewed to describe their kasakitan/hirap (sufferings) and nipakapara/ginhawa (relief) experiences. Results reveal that despite the suffering they experienced, they still feel the kagandahang loob ni Apu Namalyari (the goodness of God) manifested and continually uplifted their plight and dignity. Amidst their suffering, they saw Apu Namalyari’s hand working for them. They feel blessed in surviving and thriving because “alang mengapaburen” (no one is forsaken) with “lugud ning Ginu” (God’s love). Moreover, they saw the salvific act of God through Jesus as the source of nipakapara, who brought them an experience of pagbabangong-dangal (resurrection). This brings a new Christological title close to the hearts of the Aetas: “Hesus kanakangbungat nipakapara.”
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Acknowledgements
I want to express my sincerest gratitude to the community of Aeta Mag-Indi at Brgy. Planas, Porac Pampanga, and to the Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM).
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This research received clearance and approval from the chieftain and elders of the Aeta community at Brgy. Planas Porac Pampanga in compliance with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples.
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Baluyut, M.F. (2023). Hesus Kanakangbungat Nipakapara: Aetas’ Soteriological Experience from Pinatubo Eruption to Present. In: Hongladarom, S., Joaquin, J.J., Hoffman, F.J. (eds) Philosophies of Appropriated Religions. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-99-5191-8_15
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