THE City Government of Tagbilaran held a significant symposium on November 6, 2024, entitled SU’G Flows of History, which delved into the cultural and environmental heritage of Tagbilaran’s historic waterscapaes.
The event brought together local historians, archaeologists, environmental advocates, and residents to deepen appreciation and understanding of the city’s unique historical landscapes connected to water.
Atty. Ma. Cecilia U. Tirol, Visayas Director for the National Museums of the Philippines, gave a special message emphasizing the significance of Tagbilaran’s waterways and their role in Philippine history.
Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap echoed this sentiment, expressing the city government’s dedication to safeguarding its cultural heritage.
“Tagbilaran’s waters have borne witness to countless events, from the early trading days to moments of courage and resilience. These waterscapes are living stories that connect us to our roots and shape our vision for the future. We are committed to preserving these resources and inspiring a deep appreciation for our heritage among Tagbilaranons,” she said.
The Mayor also acknowledged the support of national agencies and local experts in Tagbilaran’s efforts toward environmental and cultural conservation.
The symposium featured three insightful lectures. Ms. Athena Vitor of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) opened the series with a presentation of Tagbilaran City Cultural Mapping, showcasing how the city’s natural and built heritage intertwine. This was followed by Prof. Marianito Jose Luspo’s discussion on Cultural Assets and Resources of Tagbilaran City, which highlighted the historical sites and cultural practices that form Tagbilaran’s identity.
Mr. Bobby Orillaneda, Head of the Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage Division at the National Museum of the Philippines, delivered the final lecture, Archaeology and the Historic Waterscapes of Tagbilaran, which explored the city’s archaeological heritage in relation to its waterways.
This was followed by a sharing on “Conserving the Artifacts of Ubujan, by Ms. Rachelle Ureta, a conservator from the National Museum’s Maritime and Underwater Cultural Heritage division.
A panel discussion followed, focusing on the Cultural Significance of Tagbilaran’s Historic Waterscapes, and this included panelists Mr. Orillaneda, Dr. Vida de Juan, Ms. Rachelle Lacea from the National Museum Bohol, and Dr. Rosalinda Paredes of USAID CHANGE.
The symposium concluded with a hands-on cultural immersion the following day. Participants visited the Manga River, the historic San Antonio de Padua Convent in Ubujan District, Cabisi in Ubujan, and Banat-I Hill, which overlooks the Tagbilaran Strait.
The event culminated with a guided tour of the Bohol Gallery at the National Museum, giving attendees a closer look at the artifacts and exhibits that trace the province’s rich cultural history.
With SU’G Flows of History, Tagbilaran City reaffirms its commitment to honoring and preserving its past while building awareness of the environmental and cultural significance of its waterscapes.
