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|a This paper describes the Ayta's notion and experiences of development within their own culture and identity which is encapsulated in their term 'kahampatan.' It is evident that long before the introduction of the dominant development paradigms into the Ayta communities in the Province of Zambales, these Ayta groups already had their perspectives about development and well-being. 'Kahampatan' is the Ayta's account of self-determined development that shares commonality with other indigenous notions of living well such as buen vivir, sumac kawsay and laman laka. The study used qualitative research methods with an indigenous research approach and orientation. Data were generated from semi-structured interviews, fieldwork-immersion and participant observation. 'Kahampatan' is depicted as an appropriate attitude and act ion towards relating positively with others and the realization of the goodness of life for everyone. 'Kahampatan' as a framework for development in the context of identity and culture emphasizes four elements of a good life or living well - a right relationship with Apo Namalyari or the Creator, a right relationship with the self, a right relationship with others and a right relationship with nature.
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