Critical theory and participatory action research: in retrospect of conducting fieldwork in conflict-afflicted Mindanao, Philippines

The application of critical theory and participatory action research in a complementary manner provides an ideal approach in conducting field research in the conflict driven areas of Mindanao. The inclusion of the research respondents in the research process through a series of deliberative discourses with the researchers, anchored in emancipation and reflexivity, may contribute a more comprehensive analysis in understanding the multifaceted issues of conflict and peace in Mindanao. However, this convergence is not immune from limitations, and thus should be perceived as an additional point of reference to continue exploring interdisciplinary and adaptive field research approaches, writes Jonathan Eli Libut