The webinar received positive feedback from participants, with many expressing appreciations for both the content and delivery. Attendees reported that the sessions effectively addressed the core themes and learning outcomes outlined at the beginning of the program. Feedback highlighted the relevance and timeliness of the topics discussed. Participants shared comments such as:

• “The webinar and series of insightful topics were interesting and are very relevant within the context of globalized interactions. Congratulations po.”
• “The message of this webinar is very clear—to preserve and let us celebrate our own culture.”
• “The webinar is excellent. Hoping in the future na mas madami pang magkakaroon at makakakinig ng topics. I learned a lot in this webinar.”

The speakers demonstrated strong knowledge of the topics discussed, which contributed significantly to the sessions’ credibility and impact. One of the participants noted, “Speakers gave meaningful insights about heritage that would be beneficial in learning more about cultural diversity.” This feedback underscores the webinar’s effectiveness in promoting cultural appreciation and understanding.

SUPPORTING NARRATIVE AND DOCUMENTATIONS:

Cultural heritage serves as the foundation of identity, resilience, and sustainable development for communities worldwide. It embodies the values, traditions, and collective memory that define societies, offering a sense of belonging and continuity. The theme “Preserving Legacies, Building Futures: Empowering Communities through Heritage” underscores the critical role of heritage in shaping both present and future generations. In an ever-changing world influenced by globalization, climate change, and rapid technological advancement, safeguarding cultural heritage is not just about protecting the past—it is about ensuring a meaningful and inclusive future.

This webinar, organized in celebration of National Heritage Month, sought to highlight the importance of preserving cultural legacies while ensuring their relevance in contemporary society. Heritage is not merely a relic of the past; it is a living resource that strengthens cultural pride, cultivates social cohesion, and serves as a catalyst for economic growth and environmental sustainability. From mapping cultural landscapes to decolonizing historical narratives, this webinar explored diverse perspectives on heritage preservation and its role in shaping identity, economy, and education.

The webinar opened with a warm welcome from the host, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and an invocation to set a meaningful and hopeful tone for the program. Attended by a live audience of ASCOT tourism students and faculty at the Bulwagang Sen. Edgardo J. Angara, along with virtual participants via Zoom and Facebook livestream, the event began with Ms. Melissa Grace P. Nacino, Director of the Aurora Studies Center, who shared the inspiration behind the initiative.

A series of welcome messages and opening remarks then followed: Dr. Ma. Luz F. Cabatan, ASCOT Vice President for Academic Affairs, greeted all attendees; Engr. Oscar C. Barawid, ASCOT Vice President for Planning, Administration, and Finance, highlighted heritage as a living legacy; Ms. Anna Riza S. Mendoza of the Aurora Tourism Office stressed the importance of preserving the province’s cultural traditions; and ASCOT President, Dr. Renato G. Reyes, emphasized the value of culture in strengthening cross-cultural relationships and expressed hope for collaboration between scientists and artists.

Ms. Rona Jane Cacanindin, Head of Research at the Aurora Studies Center, then oriented participants on the house rules before Ms. Kimberley Macalood walked everyone through the program flow and Mrs. Malou C. Angara, Head of Instruction of the Aurora Studies Center and Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, introduced the resource speakers.

The morning session featured three presentations: Dr. Pia C. Arboleda on “Ilonggo Cuisine: Recollections and Recipes,” Dr. Anna Belew on “Sharing Knowledge and Growing Networks for Language Revitalization Worldwide,” and Dr. Melanie P. Tolentino on “The Role of CLSU Agricultural Museum in Promoting the Agricultural Heritage of the Region,” followed by an engaging Q&A. On-site participants were later provided snacks and lunch packs before the afternoon session began with Mr. Emil Noveno’s discussion on “Understanding the Past: Cultural Mapping of Historical Landmarks of Baler,” and Mr. Alvin Campomanes’ talk, “Exploring Intersections of Public History and Heritage Tourism: Notes and Reflections,” which also concluded with an interactive Q&A.