ASIA PACIFIC JOURNAL OF ADVANCED EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY
Tangible Cultural Properties of Abucay, Bataan, Philippines: Significance, Issues, and Conservation Measures
John Albert R. Dela Rosa
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1296-3595
jardelarosa@bpsu.edu.ph
Bataan Peninsula State University, City of Balanga, Bataan, Philippines
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54476/apjaet/71507
Abstract
The rich history and culture of Abucay, Bataan is reflected in its tangible cultural properties. Hence, this study aimed to document the tangible cultural properties of Abucay, Bataan specifically its significance, issues, and conservation measures. Following participatory cultural mapping as an approach to this research, this study employs the Cultural Mapping System of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. Using the Cultural Mapping Toolkit of NCCA, a semi-structured interview questionnaire, and documentary analysis, this study identified and documented nineteen movable tangible cultural properties and seven immovable tangible cultural properties. This study found that cultural properties of Abucay, Bataan are now threatened by environmental disasters, sensitivity of the materials, and a lack of training and knowledge on the proper handling of tangible cultural properties. Nonetheless, the locals are quite receptive to conserving these properties. Indeed, the study demonstrates the conventional thinking that history and culture are inextricably linked. They are strongly intertwined and may be explored concurrently using material objects, both movable and immovable. Thus, the study recommends collaboration among the local government unit, academic institutions, and private organizations in promoting Abucay, Bataan’s cultural and historical treasures. Finally, the identified tangible cultural propertiees must be included in mainstream curricula particularly in teaching Social Studies in basic education through the collaborative effort and support of the Department of Education, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and the Municipal Government of Abucay.
Keywords: Abucay; immovable; movable; tangible cultural heritage