July 24, 2024 – In an exciting step to preserve Casiguran’s rich cultural heritage, the Municipal Tourism, Information, Culture, and Arts Office (MTICAO) of Casiguran recently met with Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) President Dr. Renato G. Reyes to discuss teaming up for the Cultural Mapping Project. This initiative aims to spotlight and safeguard cultural treasures across the Philippines as mandated by R.A. No. 10066, or the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009. By partnering with ASCOT as a member of the Local Council for Culture and the Arts (LCCA), the LGU hopes to tap into the college’s academic expertise to identify and preserve Casiguran’s unique cultural landmarks and traditions.Representing MTICAO were Municipal Tourism Officer Ms. Kristine Joy V. Corpuz and Ms. Reeza Flores. ASCOT President Dr. Renato G. Reyes will represent the college in the council, ensuring the institution’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage is fully realized. Also with him is Mr. Emil Lumasac Noveno from School of Arts and Sciences.
Ms. Corpuz shared her excitement, saying, “Mayroon pong mga pag-aaral noon na nasimulan tungkol sa lokal ng Casiguran, kaya looking forward po kami na sa tulong ng ASCOT ay mas maiwawasto namin ang mga kaalamang ito.”
President Reyes echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting the importance of keeping Casiguran’s culture alive. He remarked, “Maganda ang mga ganitong programa, para hindi tuluyang mamatay o mawala ang kulturang meron tayo lalo na ang mga Casiguranin.”
Looking ahead, ASCOT and MTICAO plan to create a detailed cultural mapping plan that will include workshops, field studies, and community validation sessions.