KORONADAL CITY — The preservation of cultural heritage took center stage during the first quarter meeting of the South Cotabato Culture and Arts Council (SCCAC), where provincial leaders reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the rich traditions and identity of the province.
The SCCAC meeting held earlier this week gathered cultural workers, local government representatives, and tourism officials to discuss ongoing initiatives and future plans aimed at sustaining the province’s unique heritage.
A key highlight of the discussion was the strengthened mandate to protect and preserve cultural assets across South Cotabato.
Argie Ryan Asaria, Senior Tourism officer said the Provincial Government, in partnership with local government units (LGUs), is intensifying its focus on cultural preservation efforts. He emphasized that these cultural treasures are not only symbols of identity but also serve as the “brand and pride” of the province.
“As we move forward, it is very important to ensure that our cultural heritage is preserved for future generations. These are the foundations of who we are as a people,” Asaria said.
One of the major initiatives currently being implemented by the Provincial Tourism Office is cultural mapping. This systematic process aims to identify, document, and preserve both tangible and intangible cultural assets across different communities. Through cultural mapping, the province seeks to create a comprehensive database that will guide policy-making, conservation programs, and tourism development.
The initiative covers several LGUs, including Koronadal, Lake Sebu, Surallah, Tampakan, and Tantangan. These areas are known for their diverse cultural expressions, including indigenous traditions, crafts, music, and festivals.
In line with national standards, the province and the participating LGUs have been tagged as compliant with the joint memorandum issued by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). This compliance forms part of the requirements for the prestigious Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), a recognition given to local governments that demonstrate excellence in governance and public service.
The ongoing efforts are strongly supported by the current administration under Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr..
His leadership has prioritized cultural preservation as a key component of sustainable development, recognizing its role in promoting tourism, strengthening community identity, and fostering inclusive growth.
