KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato -The protection and preservation of South Cotabato’s rich cultural heritage will remain a top priority of the South Cotabato Culture and Arts Council as the province strengthens its commitment to safeguarding its diverse traditions, historical landmarks, and indigenous identity for future generations.
The Provincial Tourism Office continues to conduct cultural mapping, a comprehensive process of identifying, documenting, and recording the province’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage.
According to Argie Asaria, Senior Tourism Operations Officer, the Provincial Government, together with its local government units, is intensifying efforts to ensure that the province’s cultural heritage is properly protected, documented, and preserved.
“The initiative aims to sustain the unique cultural identity that has long served as one of South Cotabato’s greatest strengths and distinguishing features,” he said.
Asaria emphasized that preserving the province’s cultural heritage is vital because it represents not only the history and traditions of its people but also the identity and pride of South Cotabato.
“Protecting these traditions, historical sites, cultural practices, and other heritage resources ensures that future generations will continue to appreciate and value the rich identity of South Cotabato,” Asaria said.
The initiative covers historical structures, traditional practices, local festivals, indigenous knowledge, arts, crafts, languages, significant personalities, and other cultural resources that contribute to the province’s rich history.
“We conducted cultural mapping to at least majority of the towns,” Asaria shared.
Compliance forms part of the requirements for the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), one of the national government’s highest recognitions for local government units demonstrating excellence in governance, accountability, and public service.
These initiatives continue to receive strong support from the current provincial administration under Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., who has consistently advocated for programs that protect South Cotabato’s cultural identity while promoting inclusive development across the province.
Under Governor Tamayo’s leadership, the Provincial Government recognizes that preserving cultural heritage not only honors the past but also creates opportunities for sustainable tourism, economic growth, and community empowerment.
