Dr Blenn Nimer1
1Notre Dame of Kidapawan College, Kidapawan City, Philippines
Biography:
Dr Nimer is a researcher, professor, and organisational development consultant. He has earned three doctoral degrees: PhD in Organisation Studies, PhD in Development Research Administration, and Doctor of Business Management. He actively participates in the international research community, presenting his papers at conferences held in Japan, the USA, Singapore, and Thailand. His contributions have earned recognition, with a position on the Review Committee of difference international conferences. Furthermore, Dr. Blenn has authored several books and research instruments copyrighted by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines.
Abstract:
This study investigates the Manuvu judicial system, a traditional system of maintaining social harmony and conflict resolution employed by one of the largest indigenous people groups living in the Philippines for two millennia, according to linguistic and archaeological evidence. Drawing on the work of Brazal and Andres (2021), this ethnographic inquiry focused on key concepts of restorative justice, authority, customary laws, influence, and mechanisms of preservation and adaptation. After securing permission from the National Commission of Indigenous People and adhering to customary rituals, a focus group discussion was conducted involving four Manuvu chieftains. The findings revealed that, the Manuvu judicial system is governed by the datu and his council employing established processes of delivering justice to the people and maintaining peace and order. Second, offences are negotiated through a price-based compensation which depends on the gravity of the offence; however, the datu holds extraordinary "messianic" power to grant absolution to the offender and pay the price personally. Third, narrative blessings from fathers to sons ensure the preservation of judicial practices, while the hereditary nature of the position of the datu ensures continuity. Fourth, the Manuvu judicial system enjoys legal protection, respect from government authorities and other ethnic communities, and recognition by Philippine courts. These findings offer valuable insights into indigenous approaches to conflict resolution, dispensing justice, and maintaining social harmony. The Manuvu judicial system is a model of restorative justice and cultural resilience. Comparative analysis with other indigenous systems is recommended to explore potential wider applications.