BAYBAYIN. University of the Philippines - Diliman has developed a system that could convert Baybayin to Latin characters. The Senate Committee on Culture and Arts on Tuesday (April 30, 2024) opened discussions on 32 bills seeking to safeguard diverse traditions, languages, arts, and practices – including the preservation of the Baybayin script – that shaped the Filipino identity. (Image courtesy of UP-Diliman)
MANILA – The Senate Committee on Culture and Arts chaired by Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda on Tuesday opened discussions on 32 bills seeking to establish key cultural institutions, declare national heritage zones, and safeguard diverse traditions, languages, arts, and practices that shaped the Filipino identity.
In her opening statement, Legarda stressed that the Philippines' cultural heritage, influenced by colonization, indigenous traditions, neighboring cultures, and global interactions, reflects the resilience and creativity of the Filipino people.
"While governmental bodies such as the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, and those represented here today play important roles in this endeavor, we recognize that the preservation of Filipino culture is a collaborative effort. It requires active engagement from communities, robust educational initiatives, and acknowledgment on the global platform," she said
"Through these proposed laws, coupled with efficient and effective implementation, we endeavor to cultivate, protect, and uphold the invaluable treasures of Filipino arts and culture, ensuring that they remain accessible, adequately utilized, and valued for generations to come.”
Among the proposed measures are Senate Bill (SB) No. 2365 and House Bill No. 7986, or the Solemn Declaration of Philippine Independence declaring August 1 of each year a special working holiday to honor and remember the historic moment when the declaration of Philippine Independence was proclaimed during the Bacoor Assembly in Bacoor, Cavite on August 1, 1898.
"Ito ay pagkilala at pasasalamat sa mga sakrispisyo ng mga magigiting na Pilipinong tumindig at lumaban para sa ating bayan (This is a recognition and gratitude for the sacrifices of the brave Filipinos who stood up and fought for our country)," Senator Ramon Revilla Jr., who filed the Senate version, said in his opening statement.
SB 1523, which seeks to preserve the Indigenous Sports and Games of the Philippines, and SB 1270 or the Protection, preservation, conservation and promotion of the "Baybayin" script, were also tackled by the panel.
"Kalayaan, Kasaysayan at Kultura - ito ay mga batayan ng ating pagka-Pilipino. At habang tayo ay nagpupunyaging pangalagaan at itaguyod ang mga ito, patuloy ding buong tapang na wawagayway ang bandila sa luntiang pangakong bayan (Freedom, History and Culture - these are the foundations of our Filipino identity. And as we strive to preserve and promote them, the flag of a verdant promised land will continue to bravely beckon)," Revilla said.
Both Legarda and Revilla consider the proposed measures as crucial for protecting and preserving Philippine culture, ensuring that future generations can continue to celebrate and connect with their heritage. (PNA)
