Message from Stakeholders
Hon. Loren B. Legarda
Senator, Author and Principal Sponsor of the Cultural Mapping Law
The passage of RA 11961, or the Cultural Mapping Law, is an important milestone in the continued promotion and preservation of our culture and heritage.
As the author and principal sponsor of the law, I laud the measure’s passage, which I have been pushing since the 16th Congress.
We sought the institutionalization of cultural mapping to make heritage an inclusive tool for local and national development. It employs a grassroots approach that empowers local communities to identify and assign cultural value to properties that are important to them.
Dr. Clement C. Camposano, Ph.D.
Chancellor
UP VIsayas
The theme, “Kaangtanan: celebrating intersections across across Western Visayas”, suggests a dynamic context constituted by the flow of people, ideas, and practices. It brings into view the crucial role of movement and connections in the production of culture.
Mapping our cultural resources not only equips us with the information needed to protect and promote our heritage, but also allows us to more deeply appreciate our communities as “meaningful locations” (Duxbury et. al., 2015). In making visible things like local stories, rituals, and collective memories, mapping provides us valuable clues to understanding the processes that have shaped, and continue to shape, people and the places they inhabit.
Culture is never static. It is a continuing process of meaning-making. A cultural map should not be an attempt to represent the “essential” or defining elements of any culture. Instead, it should be an attempt at a snapshot where people, using their heritage as a lens, take stock of where they and their communities are in history, and how they might navigate its intricacies in their confident embrace of the future.
Cultural mapping should be the community finding its own bearings.
Prof. Martin G. Genodepa
Program Manager, CMPG
UP VIsayas
The Cultural Mapping of Panay, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental a gargantuan task that UP Visayas cannot do alone. We are grateful that the other state universities in the region as well as the heads of the local government units have agreed to partner with us. This partnership is an evidence that our innate bayanihan spirit is alive. It also suggests that documenting, safeguarding and preserving our cultural heritage, whether distinct or shared, is not totally a rarity in this complex global village that our world has become. It proves that our hearts, though divided and distracted, still beats with ethnic and patriotic pride.
The wealth of knowledge that had been yielded as a result of the mapping project is a veritable resource for academics, cultural workers, and the government. This is the prime reason for setting up this website.
The data that are presented here affirm the collective desire of all our partners from the state universities and the local government to learn more about our cultural heritage and find ways to avert its sinking into oblivion.
We are hoping that the information in this virtual platform will spark interest and encourage the conduct of more research and mapping activities that will deepen the understanding and appreciation of ourselves as a people. It is not an overemphasis to reiterate that our cultural heritage speaks about us – we, as a people, shape and are being shaped by what we have created.
Eventually, one of the measures by which the cultural mapping project is be deemed successful is when the government and its instrumentalities begin to craft policies and programs that safeguard, preserve, and promote local cultural heritage in keeping with aspirations of sustainable development.
Let the encounter and rediscovery of our patrimony begin!
Anna Razel L. Ramirez
Overall Project Leader, CMPG
UP VIsayas
We are so proud to bring together the cultural heritage of the provinces of Iloilo, Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Guimaras and Negros on this website. These are the accomplishments of our cultural mappers from our counterpart SUCs and LGUs who have painstakingly documented and inventoried the cultures and natural environments that are significant to the people of Western Visayas. By locating our cultural heritage, we ascertain the origins and assist in shaping the future of our communities.
The project’s scope rendered the work enormous and overwhelming. The data that we need to process was so huge, as was the number of personnel that we must work with considering their proximity from our base in UP Visayas. Yet, possibilities are endless because of the synergy of various collaborating agencies led by UP Visayas, NCCA and the Office of Sen. Loren Legarda. Following the Cultural Mapping Law as our guide, altogether we are striving to strengthen the conservation and protection of the Philippine cultural heritage because they have been recorded and identified through the project “Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras with Negros Occidental.”
With our CMPG Team, I am wishing you an enjoyable navigation of this website!
Prof. Frances Anthea Redison
Overall Co-Project Leader, CMPG
UP VIsayas
The Cultural Mapping of Panay, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental Project is a most noble endeavor which aims to document the tangible and intangible heritage/cultural assets and resources of the region before they are forgotten due to neglect, fade away into obscurity, and are consigned to the pages of history. This undertaking can be considered as a race against time, one that requires the collaborative effort of various stakeholders.
Cultural mapping is a crucial first step in creating awareness and appreciation among the various levels of Governance, and all sectors of society. This process can dispel many misconceptions and myths about our communities, enabling leaders to identify resources, efficiencies, vulnerabilities and links between arts and cultural groups, as well as their common aspirations and values, all of which can be crucial in ensuring a meaningful approach towards planning.
Through cultural mapping, we can aid our communities not only in integrating cultural diversity to economic, social, and regional development, but also in recognizing, celebrating, and supporting culture, the arts, and our shared heritage as Filipinos.
Joselito F. Villaruz, M.D., Ph.D., FPPS
SUC President IV
West Visayas State University
PAGPUPUGAY! Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras project organizers for this successful website launching!
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the organizers of the Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras project on the successful launch of this website!
On behalf of the West Visayas State University (WVSU) Board of Regents and the entire WVSU community, I commend the CMPG project for reaching this significant milestone.
This initiative aligns with WVSU’s vision to foster research-based extension projects that create a sustainable impact in our communities. Through Cultural Mapping, we are answering the call to protect and promote our rich cultural diversity.
WVSU has made considerable contributions to the preservation of our cultural heritage. We have integrated our plans and programs with global frameworks, including the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, UNESCO’s Perspective on the Future of Higher Education in 2050, the economic agenda of the Office of the President of the Philippines, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), National Higher Education Research Agenda, and National Integrated Basic, DOST-CHEd Harmonized National Research and Development Agenda, National Integrated Basic Research, and the Gender Responsive Extension Agenda. These efforts support our commitment to preserving culture and heritage in our region.
We look forward to the functional and interactive features of the new website, which will provide public access to the natural heritage of Panay and Guimaras, including Negros Occidental. This platform will keep students, researchers, educators, and interested individuals updated on cultural mapping and heritage, fostering information exchange and enhancing awareness of intangible heritage and biological diversity conservation.
We hope that we can integrate and link the said website to our own main portal for its promotion and at the same time for easier access of our stakeholders.
I am confident that this step will significantly advance research and educational methods in our region for the promotion of cultural diversity, essential for sustainable development as a fundamental aspect of human rights.
We greatly value the strengthened partnerships with CMPG project organizers and the University of the Philippines Visayas, as well as collaborations with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Department of Education Region VI, fellow State Universities and Colleges, and local government units. This success is made possible through your efforts and the effective implementation of the project roadmap.
With these, we express our full support for the launch of the CMPG website and its future developments.
Madamo gid nga salamat halin sa West Visayas State University!
Gabriel M. Salistre Jr., PEE, DIT
SUC President III
Iloilo Science and Technology University
I extend my heartfelt congratulations on the launch of the Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras (CMPG) website. This initiative aligns perfectly with Iloilo Science and Technology University commitment to inclusivity and diversity as we strive to promote cultural celebrations and awareness campaigns that foster appreciation and respect for the rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and identities within our community.
The CMPG website will serve as a vital platform for sharing news and updates about our cultural mapping activities. It will highlight the cultural heritage of Panay and Guimaras, providing users with an interactive map that showcases the diverse traditions, practices, and identities that make our region unique. This resource will display a comprehensive catalogue of all mapped cultural forms and foster a deeper appreciation for the various cultures and religions that enrich our lives.
As we embark on this exciting journey, let us acknowledge the significance of promoting cultural celebrations and awareness. Embracing our cultural heritage not only strengthens our identity but also instills pride in our region. ISAT U is committed to supporting this endeavor and fostering a deeper appreciation for our rich cultural history.
I commend everyone involved in the development of this remarkable website and look forward to its positive impact on our communities. May this platform inspire others to explore and appreciate the diverse cultural landscape of Panay, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental.
Congratulations once again, and let us move forward together in promoting our cultural heritage!
Dr. Efren L. Linan
University President
Capiz State University
Capiz State University is privileged to be part of this endeavor, the Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras Project, which aims to identify and record the region’s cultural assets for conservation and protection under Republic Act No. 11961. Preserving these assets at both the local and national levels will ensure that they remain safeguarded not only for today’s generation but also for those to come.
The products of our efforts, particularly the cultural mapping profiles of the Local Government Units in Capiz, will play an essential role in shaping the development plans and programs of the LGUs.
This is not just about keeping our past but also about building a foundation for sustainable growth that respects and embraces our cultural heritage.
As the partner State University in the implementation of the CMPG project, CAPSU would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the Office of Senate President Pro Tempore Loren B. Legarda for championing this initiative, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts for providing their invaluable Assistance, University of the Philippines -Visayas as the co-implementer, and the Local Government Unit of Capiz for their unwavering support.
Let us continue to rise and shine to a future where our cultural heritage as Capisnon is not just remembered, but actively celebrated and integrated into our growth and development.
#RISECAPSU
#RISECAPIZ
Nordy D. Siason, JR., EdD, CESO VI
University President
Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology
Greetings of peace and solidarity from the ISUFST community!
As a University deeply rooted in advancing education, research, and community engagement, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) reaffirms its commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage of our region. This initiative together with our partners exemplifies our pursuit of integrity, social justice, discipline, and academic excellence—our key pillars in building a sustainable, inclusive, and empowered society.
Through the Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras (CMPG) Project, we are not only documenting the tangible and intangible heritage of Panay and Guimaras but also fostering a deeper understanding of the identity, values, and traditions that shape our communities. These discoveries will provide future generations with a profound sense of cultural continuity while supporting tourism, education, and regional development.
Our efforts align with national and international goals—such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—specifically those addressing Quality Education (SDG 4), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), and the promotion of inclusive societies and cultural heritage. ISUFST’s participation in this project reflects our shared mission of contributing to the resilience, sustainability, and socio-cultural vibrancy of our local communities.
This endeavor would not be possible without the collaborative efforts of government agencies, local cultural workers, educators, and community leaders. Let us continue working hand-in-hand to ensure the successful completion of this project, and together, let us celebrate the diversity, exquisiteness, and marvels of Panay and Guimaras.
Thank you for your unwavering dedication to this meaningful initiative.
Mabuhay ang Panay kag Guimaras!
Dr. Lilian Diana B. Parreño
University President
Guimaras State University
On behalf of Guimaras State University, I extend my warmest congratulations to the Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras (CMPG) Project on the launch of its official website during the Kaangtanan: Celebrating Intersections across Western Visayas conference.
The preservation and promotion of our region’s rich cultural heritage is a vital endeavor, and the CMPG project serves as a significant milestone in this mission. Through cultural mapping, we gain deeper insights into the diverse traditions, history, and identities that have shaped Panay and Guimaras. It provides a platform for communities to engage in a meaningful dialogue about their cultural assets, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from and appreciate them.
I am deeply honored that the university is part of this initiative. The collaboration between the University of the Philippines Visayas and Guimaras State University represents a shared vision of preserving our heritage while fostering growth and development. This website will serve not only as a repository of our collective cultural wealth but also as a bridge that connects the past, present, and future of our communities.
Congratulations once again to all the stakeholders, partners, and contributors who have worked tirelessly to make this project a reality. May the CMPG website inspire even more people to recognize the importance of cultural heritage and its role in shaping our identity and society.
Dr. Jeffrey A. Clarin
SUC President III
Aklan State University
Greetings to all partners and stakeholders!
As President of Aklan State University (ASU), and on behalf of the entire ASU community, we are deeply honored to have joined this Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras (CMPG) Project by documenting the significant natural resources and cultural registry for the Province of Aklan.
I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the University of the Philippines-Visayas for the opportunity to become a project partner of CMPG. This partnership aligns with two of the core mandates of our university— to undertake research and extension services. The ASU Research Team, along with our Project Partners in the Local Government Units, has made commendable efforts to immerse themselves in the community, learning and revisiting the diverse culture of the province. It is amazing to rediscover old and uncover new cultural heritage of Aklan, and document them for posterity.
The discovery of both obscure and popular natural resources in Aklan highlights the urgent need for the protection and conservation of our cultural heritage. Former Senate President Pro Tempore Loren B. Legarda’s filing of Senate Bill (SB) 622, which seeks to amend RA 10066 to integrate cultural mapping at all levels of our government, highlights this necessity. Through the Cultural Mapping Law (Republic Act No. 11961), we have fostered a deep connection with the community through the data gathered and the stories documented by our researchers. This initiative is akin to finding hidden treasures within our own backyard, and gaining much appreciation in collecting these treasures for future generation.
The creation of this website serves as another platform for us to provide information about our culture and heritage to the public, encouraging them to embrace the past, understand the present, and preserve the future of the Aklanons as part of the diverse population of Panay. We are immensely proud to showcase the mapped cultural heritage of Aklan through this website. We are excited about the potential contributions of this project to our local economic development, tourism, and environmental conservation, particularly in Aklan.
May this initiative continue to unite all researchers, project partners, and stakeholders in future endeavors aimed at discovering, documenting, preserving, and taking pride in our cultural heritage.
Dr. Pablo S. Crespo, Jr
SUC PRESIDENT III
University of Antique
As we begin a major undertaking—one that is consistent with our common commitment to conserving and honouring our cultural heritage—I am proud to share with you this message, but I also feel a huge sense of responsibility. A significant turning point for our country has been marked by the passage of the Cultural Mapping Law, also known as Republic Act No. 11961, which requires local government entities to take the lead in recording and preserving the cultural resources of their regions. Preserving our history is only one aspect of this; another is building pride in our community and our shared identity for coming generations.
Today, we celebrate the expansion of cultural mapping efforts to the provinces of Panay, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental, building on the success of the Cultural Mapping of Antique. This broader initiative promises to deepen our understanding of the unique traditions, customs, and natural wonders that define our region.
The development of a specialised website that will give the general public access to an expanding list of cultural and natural heritage sites is a major project milestone. In addition to being a storehouse of important data, this portal will be an interactive resource that lets users discover and value the diverse cultural fabric of our provinces. It is a place where people may come together, where historical narratives are brought to life, and where everyone can access our common legacy.
Let’s take a moment to acknowledge the importance of cultural mapping, not just as a documentation tool but also as a way to inspire future generations and build a bridge between the past and present. Our university, University of Antique is honored to contribute to this endeavor, knowing that education, research, and collaboration are key in sustaining our heritage.
I appreciate all who have worked tirelessly on this project. Let us move forward with determination and a renewed sense of purpose in preserving the cultural wealth of Panay, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental.
Together, we ensure that our heritage will not only be remembered but will continue to thrive.
Aklan State University
University President
Aklan State University
The Cultural Mapping of Panay, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental Project is a most noble endeavor which aims to document the tangible and intangible heritage/cultural assets and resources of the region before they are forgotten due to neglect, fade away into obscurity, and are consigned to the pages of history. This undertaking can be considered as a race against time, one that requires the collaborative effort of various stakeholders.
Cultural mapping is a crucial first step in creating awareness and appreciation among the various levels of Governance, and all sectors of society. This process can dispel many misconceptions and myths about our communities, enabling leaders to identify resources, efficiencies, vulnerabilities and links between arts and cultural groups, as well as their common aspirations and values, all of which can be crucial in ensuring a meaningful approach towards planning.
Through cultural mapping, we can aid our communities not only in integrating cultural diversity to economic, social, and regional development, but also in recognizing, celebrating, and supporting culture, the arts, and our shared heritage as Filipinos.
University of Antique
University President
university of antique
On behalf of Guimaras State University, I extend my warmest congratulations to the Cultural Mapping of Panay and Guimaras (CMPG) Project on the launch of its official website during the Kaangtanan: Celebrating Intersections across Western Visayas conference.
The preservation and promotion of our region’s rich cultural heritage is a vital endeavor, and the CMPG project serves as a significant milestone in this mission. Through cultural mapping, we gain deeper insights into the diverse traditions, history, and identities that have shaped Panay and Guimaras. It provides a platform for communities to engage in a meaningful dialogue about their cultural assets, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from and appreciate them.
I am deeply honored that the university is part of this initiative. The collaboration between the University of the Philippines Visayas and Guimaras State University represents a shared vision of preserving our heritage while fostering growth and development. This website will serve not only as a repository of our collective cultural wealth but also as a bridge that connects the past, present, and future of our communities.
Congratulations once again to all the stakeholders, partners, and contributors who have worked tirelessly to make this project a reality. May the CMPG website inspire even more people to recognize the importance of cultural heritage and its role in shaping our identity and society.
