CULTURE counts. This is the main takeaway in the 4th International Conference on Cultural Statistics and Creative Economy spearheaded by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in partnership with UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization).
NCCA Chair Dr. Rene Escalante challenged all the participants to make it happen, to measure and quantify the contribution of culture to nation-building. He emphasized the power of social media and said that it could be a powerful stage to reinforce and promote culture.
Sen. Loren Legarda, on one hand, emphasized is under threat by the technological advances that we have now. The lady-senator said we must do everything to revive our national heritage and strengthen our cultural identity.
The most relevant topic for the local government units in the conference was the subject on cultural mapping, the foundation where one’s national identity could be strengthened.
Cultural Mapping results are the basis for the conservation, preservation, and promotion of one’s culture.
UNESCO’s Dr. Simon Ellis reinforced the importance of striking a balance between promoting culture and utilizing the digital platform.
Dr. Ellis cautioned the heritage warriors to not get lost in the digital era.
NCCA Jaime Antonio suggested that intersectionality in the planning stage should be applied. He explained that the contribution of culture to the local economy should be measured. The quantified results should be included in all aspects of the local government planning. (Jeanette Busano)
