Photo by Faisal Camsa/BIO
COTABATO CITY—Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH) takes a prominent role in the national heritage month celebration, underscoring the profound importance of safeguarding and promoting the rich cultural traditions of the Bangsamoro region.
From May 29 to June 1, this event serves as a platform to unite communities across the nation in their collective efforts to preserve the vibrant heritage of the Bangsamoro.
The observance of this event, as mandated by Proclamation No. 439 issued by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, aims to cultivate a deep appreciation and respect for the enduring legacies of Filipino cultural history, with a specific focus on the unique and diverse heritage of the Bangsamoro people.
BCPCH Chairperson Salem Lingasa expressed his hopes that this program would foster a sense of unity among the Bangsamoro community, empowering them to actively engage in the preservation, conservation, protection, and promotion of their treasured cultural practices.
“Kadjaan,” a Yakan term synonymous with festivities. Lingasa said this celebration is a testament to the invaluable role our heritage plays in shaping the narratives and identity of the Bangsamoro.
He further emphasized that these series of activities align perfectly with the Chief Minister’s enhanced 12-point priority agenda, which places great importance on integrating Bangsamoro culture, heritage, history, and identity, ultimately forging a stronger and more cohesive Bangsamoro community.
Munib Majirul, one of the performers from Basilan known for his mastery of the bamboo flute called “kulaing,” joyfully shared his participation in this event.
“Nagagalak kami nakasali sa ganitong aktibidad upang maipakita ang talento namin sa pag-perform ng traditional instruments at para naman ma preserve kung saan halos hindi na alam ng mga kabataan ngayon,” Majirul said.
Meanwhile, Senior Minister Abunawas Maslamama stressed, “Preservation of our culture and traditions manifest meaningful and significant for our social, economic, political and spiritual context.”
“The success of Bangsamoro today is deeply rooted in the long resistance to the colonial power in preserving our culture and identity,” he added.
In line with the government’s legislative and policy priorities, the institutionalization and mainstreaming of diverse cultures remain a key focus.
BCPCH actively contributes to this endeavor through its involvement in the drafting of the Bangsamoro Heritage Act, advocating for the creation of a dedicated committee on culture within the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Parliament. (Majid Nur/BIO)
