SLT 1239
November 18-24, 2023
SOUTHERN LEYTE – The province has revived its attention to culture and heritage when it held its first ever Culture, Heritage and the Arts Council (CHAC) Meeting last November 16, 2023 at the old DPWH building in Asuncion, Maasin City.
The legal basis, significant role and objectives of the reconstituted council were imparted to the members. Ideas, knowledge and experiences of the participants on Southern Leyte’s perceived culture and heritage were shared, prompting the need to explore them and document their existence.
The recent orientation on cultural mapping by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCAA) for six municipalities and city in the province, is a good start for the CHAC to monitor the progress of documentation. The tourism officer of each local government unit will play an important role on ensuring that these are done.
There is a plan to hold a culture, music and arts festival annually, featuring the local talents and highlighting original compositions. Monitoring the cultural mapping of cultural assets in the municipalities will also be undertaken.
The CHAC will also be involved in the preparation for Limasawa’s “First Sunday Easter Mass” celebration with the Diocese of Maasin.
The newly formed council is headed by Governor Damian G. Mercado with members Ina Marie K. Loy (SP), Nedgar V. Garvez (PTO), Binky D. Vasquez (PPDO), Marcelo Pedalino (PIO), Sylvia Torredes (PBO), Josilyn S. Solana DepEd (represented by Dr. Allan Rosello), Rolando Bade, Representative of Local Tourism Council, Ferdinand V. Garvez (Historical-Sectarian Organization), Salvador Abiera (Local Museum), Gershon V. Destora (GPSOLE), Dr. Gloria M. Reyes (SLCCI), Cipriano A. Mikin (Professional Sector), Enrique Balili (Academe), SK Province (Youth Sector).
