The Asia Pacific Studies (APS) Department of the UA&P College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) rolled out its Living Heritage Project last November 15-16, 2023, by offering a two-day workshop for cultural and tourism officers from Manila, Pasig, Navotas, Malabon, Makati, Taguig, Marikina, and Parañaque.

Organized by UA&P’s resident heritage anthropologist, Dr. Carmita Eliza Icasiano, the event serves as the department’s strategic response to the recent upgrade of the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, the ratification of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act of 2022, and the continuing attainment of SDG Goal #11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Two chairpersons of CAS—Dr. Laya Boquiren-Gonzales, a Philippine Studies scholar, heritage specialist, and member of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) Philippines and Interpret Europe; and Ms. Mary Josefti Nito, a historian and researcher—contributed their expertise in delivering the lectures and guiding the invited participants to present and share their localities’ intangible heritage practices. Dr. Icasiano, Dr. Boquiren-Gonzales, and Ms. Nito also helped the participants to identify and reflect on the challenges and prospects in conserving and elevating these manifestations of Likhang Bayan. This workshop foreshadows a bigger national summit on Likhang Bayan in 2024.

The UA&P Department of Asia Pacific Studies has been pioneering the offering of area studies in the mold of liberal education since 2000. As the department gears towards its 25th year, it is setting the trend once again by introducing an innovatively full-fledged and interdisciplinary Bachelor of Arts in Asia-Pacific Studies for SY 2024-2025. This new degree aims to create the next generations of trailblazers in emerging fields and exciting opportunities in and beyond the Asia Pacific region.

Dr. Carmita Icasiano (seated, center) with Arts Department Chair Dr. Laya Boquiren-Gonzales (seated, 2nd from left), former APS Department Chair Dr. Elizabeth Urgel (seated, 2nd from right), and the cultural and tourism officers from different cities in Metro Manila.