The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) Philippines signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), that forged a shared commitment to the implementation of initiatives dubbed under the “Kabilin” projects.
With culture and heritage as the unifying thread, RAFI and ICOMOS Philippines underwent strategic co-designing sessions following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last March 15, 2024, that formalized the partnership. They shared each other’s resources and expertise to weave action plans geared towards activating resilient, prosperous and vibrant communities in Cebu enabled by their culture.
The landmark collaboration is anchored by three pilot projects: National Training Course on Disaster Risk Management of Cultural Heritage (DRMCH); Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Santo Niño Devotion (ICHSN); and Mobilizing Philippine Heritage as a driver and enabler of Sustainable Development (MPHSD). Each has a specific purpose for the promotion, conservation and protection of tangible and intangible cultural assets.
DRMCH is aimed at protecting heritage monuments and sites amidst the vulnerability of the Philippines to natural hazards and human-induced disasters.
ICHSN is directed to dive into Cebuano’s religious identity and awareness, safeguarding the deep devotion of the Child Jesus, Sr. Santo Niño, translated into customs and traditions handed down across generations.
With 5 years left, MPHSD will play a vital role in optimizing Cebu’s cherished heritage as a valuable contribution to the 2030 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Based in a 2022 Kantar survey, 9 out of 10 respondents are very proud to be Filipinos, but they lack funding for culture-rich materials and opportunities. As a result, 1 in every 2 Filipino youths will never be open to participating in advocacy movements related to culture and heritage. This inadequate recognition and prioritization of culture and heritage caused massive destruction of relevant artifacts and historical sites and the fading value of cultural practices.
RAFI and ICOMOS Philippines have long championed the promotion of culture and heritage as an integral aspect of the nation’s growth and progress, and these projects shall further augment both organizations efforts for a vibrant and regenerative Cebu.
