Adapting to Adversity: Survival Mechanisms of Badjao Migrants in Mambaling, Cebu City, Philippines

This study explored the survival mechanisms of Badjao migrants in Mambaling, Cebu City. It also examined how they respond to the different challenges they encounter in their daily lives, specifically the perceived discrimination from society, and how the government and other private sectors have helped them improve their lives. This research utilized a naturalistic inquiry method and purposive snowball sampling to identify and understand the survival mechanisms of Badjao migrants. The study involved 10 key informants who were asked to answer a questionnaire and participate in interviews. The results revealed that their survival mechanisms include fulfilling physiological needs, security, love and belongingness, esteem needs, and self-actualization. These mechanisms have evolved over time due to migration. Their lives in the city have provided them with various survival strategies to thrive despite their limitations and the social discrimination they have faced. Additionally, the support from local government units and various private organizations has helped them gain better opportunities in life. In conclusion, migration has had a major influence on the lives of the Badjao migrants in Mambaling. As a result of these influences, they have developed alternative strategies and survival mechanisms to support their daily existence. However, life remains a struggle for them. While they maintain a strong sense of community, fulfilling all their needs is not easy.