02/09/2026
BCPCH TAWI-TAWI Hosts TAWI-TAWI LEGACY-BUILDERS FORUM
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‎In celebration of National History Month, the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage – Tawi-Tawi Provincial Office (BCPCH-Tawi-Tawi) successfully conducted the Tawi-Tawi Legacy-Builders Forum 2026 on August 27–28, 2026, in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.
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‎The two-day forum aimed to mainstream historical consciousness and strengthen appreciation of the province’s rich cultural heritage by bringing together students, educators, government representatives, tourism stakeholders, law enforcement personnel, and heritage advocates. Participants included Senior High School students of Pagasinan National High School; BA History and BALCS students of Mindanao State University–Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (MSU-TCTO); Tawi-Tawi Tourist Police Units; and representatives from partner institutions.
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‎The event was graced by distinguished guests and partners, including PLGU Tawi-Tawi Planning and Development Coordinator Mr. Mohammad Noor Saada and Provincial Tourism Officer Mr. Pershing Taiyab. Representatives from the academe and cultural sector were also present, including Director Nelson Dino of OCREWORKS; Chairperson Ms. Maria Angelica Celerian of the Department of History; and faculty members of Pagasinan National High School, Mr. Francis Michael Dela Cruz and Ms. Dellilah Talipan.
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‎The forum served as a meaningful platform for knowledge exchange, dialogue, and collaboration, fostering stronger partnerships toward the documentation, preservation, and promotion of Tawi-Tawi’s cultural heritage.
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‎The first day featured insightful discussions highlighting the historical, political, and cultural significance of the province. The session began with “Bongao: The Historical, Political, and Cultural Heart of Tawi-Tawi,” presented by Bongao OIC-Municipal Tourism Officer Ms. SF Thalia Kashim. This was followed by presentations on the living heritage of Sitangkai by Sitangkai Municipal Tourism Officer Mr. Alnasram Awadi, and the maritime heritage and historical narratives of Sibutu by Sibutu Municipal Tourism Officer Mr. Audi Muyong.
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‎These discussions emphasized the importance of recognizing, documenting, and safeguarding the diverse traditions, narratives, and identities that define the cultural landscape of Tawi-Tawi.
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‎On the second day, participants explored discussions on Tawi-Tawi’s cultural and historical sites, including an overview of the documentation and heritage conservation initiatives of BCPCH-Tawi-Tawi presented by History Researcher II Ms. Armelina M. Rizal. The activity concluded with an open forum, post-test evaluation, sharing of reflections and insights, and the awarding of certificates to resource persons and participants.
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‎The success of the Tawi-Tawi Legacy-Builders Forum was made possible through the commitment and support of various individuals and partner institutions, including cultural practitioners, local government units, tourism offices, academic institutions, and heritage advocates who continue to contribute to the preservation of Tawi-Tawi’s cultural legacy.
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‎Through programs such as this, BCPCH remains steadfast in its mission to protect, document, and promote the cultural treasures of the Bangsamoro, ensuring that the stories, traditions, and heritage of Tawi-Tawi remain alive and meaningful for present and future generations.
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‎Preserve our heritage. Document our stories. Build our legacy.
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