Goldie B. Jimenez, Joy Ann G. Palacios, Jennifer C. Espartero (November 2001)
Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus – Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PSHS WVC), Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
ABSTRACT
This ethnobotanical survey in “Sitio Katorse”, Hacienda Teodoro, Victorias City, Negros Occidental was conducted to determine how plants are utilized by the barriofolks in their day to day life, and how the flora in the area relates to the barrio people’s economic and socio-cultural activities. Involved in this ethnobotanical study are three equally important components: the description of the study site, ethnographic data-gathering and identification of botanical specimen. Observation of the local’s way of living considering their local flora and geographical location, participation in some of their social activities, and interviews were carried out to gather necessary data. A questionnaire was prepared to facilitate the arduous task of interviewing the locals. Photographs of the locals’ daily activities as well as plants in their natural habitat were taken as basis of information. Observations and interviews revealed that locals in “Sitio Katorse”, Hacienda Teodoro are knowledgeable of their local flora. The locals consider a total of 58 plants culturally significant. There are 40 plants for medicine, 31 plants as garden plants: 14 fruit-bearing, 10 vegetables and 7 condiments, and 16 plants are used for the locals’ social activities. The local of “Sitio Katorse”, Hacienda Teodoro greatly depend on their immediate surrounding for medicine, religious rituals and other social activities. Plants are considered as a part of the locals’ daily activities and are used during special occasions such as wedding and burials.