Every May, the Philippines celebrates National Heritage Month—a time to reflect on the richness of Filipino culture and the shared responsibility of keeping it alive.
Senator Loren Legarda, chair of the Senate Committee on Culture and the Arts, emphasized the importance of honoring what our ancestors have passed down. “Our forebearers have given us countless traditions in various forms that we can be proud of,” she said.
Proclaimed in 2003 through Presidential Proclamation No. 439, National Heritage Month aims to raise public awareness of both tangible and intangible heritage—historic sites, music, crafts, language, and traditions that shape who we are as a people.
A Celebration of Culture and Identity
Legarda highlighted how Filipino heritage engages all the senses—from the songs we hear to the food we taste. “We’re fortunate to have so many things to be proud of—not just historic landmarks, but also the music, food, and stories that make up everyday life,” she said.
These cultural expressions are more than memories; they are a living part of Filipino identity. Whether it’s a hometown festival, a folk dance, or a handwritten poem, every piece contributes to the collective story of the Filipino people.
Preserving Heritage Through Action
In line with this celebration, the Cultural Mapping Act was recently enacted. The law requires all local government units to document cultural properties within their communities and contribute to the Philippine Registry of Cultural Properties (PRECUP), a centralized database for heritage preservation.
Legarda explained that this mapping effort is not just about cataloging artifacts—it’s about building awareness, pride, and continuity. “It ensures these treasures will be passed onto future generations,” she said.
