Liminal lives at the edges : cross-border mobility and settlement of Sangir-Talauds in Southeastern Philippines

Abstract

The study examines the socio-historical dynamics of the border region between the Philippines and Indonesia. These dynamics are viewed, in particular, on the experiences and history of the Sangir-Talauds whose personal and community histories traverse both sides of the border. The study addresses the questions: how did the construction of the modern nation-state and border redefine the dynamics and locations of people within a border region? How were the barriers erected as result of nation­ building used, m anipulated, contested, and challenged by people in the border region? How did such acts shape and give meaning to border spaces? The study shows th at the formation of nation-states and construction of borders redefined the space and place of communities at the border region. Historically, the Sangir-Talauds were settlers of Southeastern Mindanao but with the colonial formation of states they were excluded from Mindanao and became officially part of Indonesia. The existence of the border did not prevent them, however, from building lives on both sides of the line. They crossed and re-crossed the border to make a living, find employment, and exploit the resources the border offers. The weak presence of the Philippine state in its border regions with Indonesia made the border even more imaginary and artificial. Contrary to statist perceptions of borders as sites of control and closure, this study shows th at they are also sites of interactions, exchanges, and accommodation. Border communities, aside from the state, are also critical actors in (re)defining the meaning and significance of the border. Show more