The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) will feature a talk on “Built Heritage” in Dumaguete this month as part of its Public Program Offering.
F. Jordan Carnice, NMP-Dumaguete researcher, told the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday that the “Pagtukod” is the third installment for this year, promoting heritage conservation and the appreciation of built heritage.
“It is a lecture about our built heritage on Negros Island, including ancestral houses, watchtowers, and churches to learn about their significance and why these need protection and conservation,” Carnice said.
“Pagtukod,” from the Cebuano term “to build,” is scheduled to be held at the NMP Museum in this capital of Negros Oriental on July 18. It will feature Catholic priest Msgr. Julius Perpetuo S. Heruela, who heads the Committee on Church Cultural Heritage of the Diocese of Dumaguete.
The diocese, through the committee, has been actively participating and collaborating with agencies like the NMP, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) in the restoration and conservation of churches, convents, bell towers, and similar structures in Negros Oriental and Siquijor.
Carnice noted that the NMP delivers six Public Program Offering activities, such as lectures and seminars on heritage conservation, each year. This is the second year for Dumaguete City to host these events.
Site inspection in Dauin
Meanwhile, the NMP inspected a site in Dauin town on Monday, where some stone objects were found, to determine their possible historical and heritage significance. The objects were discovered by a foreigner who communicated with NMP and sent them photos.
Carnice said the initial stage involves inspection and documentation of the site and objects, taking measurements and gathering vital information that would lead to further activities. A report will be submitted to the NMP’s archaeology division for determination.
Dauin Mayor Galicano Truita, in a meeting with Carnice, expressed his full support for the undertaking, highlighting the need for balance between tourism and heritage conservation. (PNA)
