The oldest Ilonggo newspaper, Makinaugalingon, has been officially inscribed in the National Register of the UNESCO Philippines Memory of the World, marking a significant step in preserving Iloilo’s documentary heritage.
The recognition was conferred during ceremonies in Iloilo City, underscoring the publication’s historical, cultural, and linguistic importance to both the region and the country.
A Chronicle of Early 20th-Century Iloilo
Founded, managed, and edited by Don Rosendo Madrazo Mejica, Makinaugalingon published 2,972 issues from 1913 to 1941, resumed in 1946, and released a special issue in 1952. Spanning nearly three decades, it remains one of the most extensive surviving records of Iloilo during the American colonial period.
Beyond reporting news, the newspaper served as a platform for Ilonggos to express their ideas and opinions amid rapid social and political change. It documented local culture, historical developments, and anthropological events, providing scholars and readers with valuable insights into the era.
Strengthening Cultural Identity
Pilar Martinez, owner and one of Mejica’s heirs, described the publication as a rich repository for tracing Iloilo’s history and understanding its role within the broader Philippine context.
Mayor Raisa Treñas, through Executive Assistant Jay Treñas, said the recognition complements Iloilo City’s distinction in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a Creative City of Gastronomy. She noted that just as culinary traditions preserve heritage through flavors, Makinaugalingon preserves identity through words and ideas.
Preserving Language and Memory
UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines Secretary General Ivan Henares described the newspaper as a witness to a defining period in Philippine history. He highlighted its importance to researchers, particularly those studying the Hiligaynon language.
With its inclusion in the National Register, Makinaugalingon is assured protection and preservation, standing as a lasting testament to Ilonggo journalism, language, and identity for generations to come.
