Barangay officials from the 98 barangays and stakeholders gathered for the Cultural Orientation program, September 18 and 19, designed to raise awareness on the importance of safeguarding local cultural properties.

Initiated by the city government through the City Museum Services, the activity comes in response to the growing concern that many barangays remain unaware of the tangible heritage within their communities, often leading to neglect, deterioration, and eventual loss of cultural assets.

The Cultural Orientation, held at a local hotel, highlighted the role of barangay officials as frontliners in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

Since cultural assets form a vital part of a community’s identity and well-being, officials are tasked to protect, maintain, and showcase these treasures through programs and activities. The orientation reminded them of their responsibilities while equipping them with knowledge on how culture can drive both community pride and sustainable development.

Speakers tackled various topics to guide barangays in this endeavor.

Museum Researcher II of the National Museum Fort Pilar Branch, John Mark Ojales discussed the significance of local cultural properties and the need for grassroots awareness; City Tourism Officer Sarita S. Hernandez emphasized how cultural tourism can serve as a sustainable growth driver for communities while former City Councilor Lilibeth Nuño shared best practices in Barangay Taluksangay, underscoring the link between cultural preservation and sustainable development.

Meanwhile, Dr. Melanie F. Lear and Dr. Jiellzon Jaime Villarama presented the community-based cultural programs in partnership with institutions as models for replication in other barangays. Also present in the orientation was Councilor Hannah Nuño. (Fatima Jubail)