Reclaiming the Voice of the Forest: The Lorax vis-à-vis Indigenous Filipino Ecological Consciousness

This research examines The Lorax by Dr. Seuss in comparison with the ecological worldview of indigenous Filipino cultures. The study explores how both The Lorax and the environmental ethics of groups such as the Ifugao, Aeta, and Lumad peoples articulate an ecological consciousness grounded in respect, reciprocity, and interdependence. Using qualitative textual and cultural analysis, the research identifies thematic parallels in ecological guardianship, environmental exploitation, communal interconnectedness, and ecological restoration. Findings indicate that the indigenous Filipino philosophy of kapwa (shared identity) and the traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) embedded in rituals and farming practices parallel the moral and ecological values in The Lorax. The study concludes that the indigenous Filipino worldview embodies a living expression of the environmental ethics allegorically represented in Seuss’ text, offering a valuable foundation for environmental education and sustainability discourse.