EARLY MARRIAGE AMONG BADJAO WOMEN: FACILITATING FACTORS AND CONSEQUENCES

This study used a descriptive design employing survey method among Badjao women in Badjao Village, Barangay Bawing, General Santos City. It determined the socio-economic profile of the respondents the facilitating factors and consequences of early marriage. It also discussed the forms of support they need. Non-probability sampling, specifically, purposive sampling was used in getting 60 Badjao women as respondents of the study. The researcher used a questionnaire in gathering data. Frequency and percentage distribution were used in the analysis.

Findings revealed that the respondents got married when they were 13 to 19 years old. Majority of the respondents have no formal education with 2 to 3 children at the moment. Cultural influence, parental arrangement, poor family, economic condition, lack of social support system, dysfunctional family, and love and affection were the facilitating factors why they got married. These resulted in many negative consequences such as educational deprivation, physical and psychological violence, lack of freedom, and many health problems.

The respondents enumerated the forms of support they need. They suggest that agencies generate programs to reduce the cause and effect of early marriage. Programs have to be properly implemented in order to address the cause of violence for women and provide protection for them. There is also a need to empower Badjao women by providing educational opportunities. Psycho- social intervention is also needed and The promotion of sexual and reproductive health awareness to help reduce the cases of early marriage in the community. The researcher recommended for more educational opportunities for Badjao youth and raising awareness on the consequences of early marriage. The private and public sectors could help create sustainable livelihood programs, educational opportunities, and health support to make the community a safe place for the youth, especially women. Constant counseling will help reduce the cases of early marriage, minimize the causes, and address many health issues associated with early marriage.