Pronunciation: [sˈame͡ɪl] (IPA) 
Samale is spelled with the letters S-A-M-A-L-E. It is pronounced /səˈmeɪli/. The "s" makes the "s" sound, the "a" is pronounced as the vowel sound in "cat," the "m" makes the "m" sound, the "l" is pronounced as the consonant sound in "lift," and the "e" at the end is pronounced as the vowel sound in "meet." The stressed syllable is the second syllable, pronounced as "may."
Samale is a noun that refers to a group of indigenous people inhabiting the province of Tawi-Tawi in the southern Philippines. They form one of the native tribes of the area and are known for their distinct customs, traditions, and way of life. The Samale are part of the larger Sama-Bajau ethnic group, which includes various subgroups scattered across the Philippine archipelago and the neighboring regions of Malaysia and Indonesia.
The Samale are predominantly seafaring people, relying heavily on fishing, boat-making, and maritime trade for their livelihood. They are renowned for their exceptional skills in navigating the waters, building traditional wooden boats called "vinta," and diving for pearls and other sea resources. The community's deep connection with the ocean and their mastery of the various aspects of maritime activities have been passed down through generations, shaping their unique identity.
Culturally, the Samale have a rich heritage of music, dance, and oral traditions. They have their own language called Sinama, which belongs to the Bornean branch of the Austronesian language family. Today, the Samale face various challenges, including the impact of modernization and declining marine resources. Nonetheless, they strive to preserve their cultural heritage and maintain their way of life while adapting to the changing times.
