The inclusion of Philippine fabric and geopark in the United Nation’s cultural list this year provides “sound direction” for the protection of the country’s heritage and cultural treasures, Senator Nancy Binay said Friday.
The designation of Bohol Island as a “geosite” and the recently inscribed handwoven piña or pineapple textile of Aklan province into the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of Humanity of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), are compelling reasons for government to protect these native treasures, she added.
“Being in UNESCO’s cultural and heritage list is a big step for our people and our country. We hope that government can find ways to provide funding and support to protect the country’s tangible and intangible cultural assets,” Binay pointed out.
“Congratulations to our Aklan piña producers and artisans. Despite being an age-old craft, who would have thought that Aklan’s piña handloom weaving can produce world-class pieces? Its inclusion in the intangible cultural heritage list is a needed boost for our weavers, and I hope this will only be a first step towards the further flourishing of the craft,” Binay said.
She added that the Philippines has so many things to offer culturally, which have potential for global recognition and ecological significance.
“I believe we can make it to the UNESCO list our various cultural heritage,” said Binay.
“We have heritage sites, churches, geosites, intangible heritage, weaving cultures at indigenous fabrics natin. But for this to happen, government support is needed,” she added.
Given the potential of local tropical fabrics, Binay said she believes more Philippine textiles deserve to be included in the list of intangible cultural heritage, as she urged the government to extend the financial, technical, training, and marketing support.
Binay has been advocating for funding for government agencies tasked with protecting and promoting them.
One of the issues the government must address is enticing the youth to continue practicing their community’s traditions.
“I hope the standards of UNESCO will be our template and guide to see how protecting and conserving cultural treasures can translate such global recognition into meaningful gains for our people. We have 7,641 islands, each with a unique, intrinsic and strong differentiating factor,” she said.
This UNESCO recognition, Binay said, emphasizes the Philippines’ comparative advantage.
“I hope we can capitalize on these advantages and expand our cultural and ecological awareness and consciousness as a people,” she said.