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Sikodiwa: Revisiting Indigenous Filipino Wisdom


The belief and value systems among the Filipino people are rich with meaning, shaped by history, and passed on generation after generation through stories and traditions, both in the homeland and the vast global diaspora. Researcher and educator Carl Lorenz Cervantes brings to light the ancestral worldviews and spiritual wisdom that Filipinos have carried with them to overcome the harms of colonization, to thrive with gratitude and resilience, and to be ready to face new challenges. In today’s context, Cervantes's Sikodiwa is a timely exploration of Filipino psychology, the process of decolonization, and the path toward Indigeneity.

Cervantes, a university professor and social media influencer, has a dedicated following among Filipino Americans. I’ve learned about his work from FilAms who are on the journey of rediscovering their heritage and looking for ways to embody Filipino values. In Sikodiwa, Cervantes presents his journey and work, while also paying homage to the works of pre-eminent scholars of Filipino decolonial studies, including Fr. Alberto Alejo, Virgilio F. Enriquez, Katrin De Guia, Zeus Salazar, among others.

What I appreciated about this book is Cervantes’ careful attention to explaining concepts in the Tagalog language, never assuming that readers already have a basic grasp of concepts like “kapwa” (shared sense of self) and “loob” (interior self). Sikodiwa is an excellent read for anyone who is intent on deepening their understanding of Indigenous lifeways, offering a wealth of knowledge and insights.

Editior's Note: This review was originally published in Seattle Book Review.
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