Experiences of Indonesian Muslims at a Christian-Majority Philippine University: Struggle and Resilience

Background/purpose. This research focuses on the lived experiences of Indonesian Muslim students and staff at an academic institution with a predominantly Christian ethos in the northern Philippines. It examines the way they faced challenges related to religious practices, social integration, and culture shock within a Catholic institution. This study also seeks to identify some of the cultural and institutional dynamics surrounding their adaptation processes, which may inform ways to engage in more inclusive spatial-temporal practices of internationalization.

Methods. A phenomenological-transcendental approach was employed to capture the participants' individual narratives and reflections. Phenomenological interviews were conducted with eight (8) Indonesian Muslim students and two (2) staff from 2019 to 2024, exploring their experiences in observing religious practices and beliefs (e.g., prayer space, access to halal food, access to Islamic holidays), intercultural socialization, and coping.

Results. The findings indicated that participants encountered key barriers, including the lack of religious accommodations and occasional feelings of solitude. Nevertheless, they overcame these barriers, by drawing their strength from their faith, finding support in a community of peers, and gradually engaging with the host culture. Filipino hospitality and shared Southeast Asian cultural values facilitated their adaptation, while the Catholic ethos of the institution, though prominent, was not entirely exclusive.

Conclusion. The study emphasizes the significance of inclusive university policies, including prayer rooms, halal food options, and intercultural programs, in promoting the well-being of international students. These perspectives add to the existing conversations surrounding culturally responsive support systems for international students in diverse academic settings.

Keywords: Acculturation, higher education internationalization, Indonesian Muslim, religious diversity, student resilience

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