HB07622: AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE CONSERVATION AND PROTECTION OF OUR NATIONAL CULTURAL HERITAGE, THROUGH AN ENHANCED CULTURAL POLICY, HERITAGE EDUCATION, AND CULTURAL MAPPING PROGRAM, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10066 OR THE NATIONAL CULTURAL HERITAG
This bill seeks to strengthen the conservation and protection of national cultural heritage by amending Republic Act No. 10066, the "National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009". It mandates local government units (LGUs) to conduct comprehensive cultural heritage mapping of their areas, encompassing tangible, intangible, natural, and built heritage, and to utilize these findings as a framework for culture-based governance. The bill also revises and enhances the scope of cultural education in the country, emphasizing the integration of Indigenous Knowledge Systems Skills and Practices (IKSSP) and contextualizing educational materials based on local cultural maps.
The proposed amendments expand definitions to include "cultural heritage mapping" and "natural heritage," ensuring a more comprehensive approach to preservation. It also requires government agencies like CHED, DA, DepEd, DENR, DPWH, DOST, DOT, DTI, DILG, DOH, DND, DFA, and NCIP to collaborate with LGUs in cultural mapping and integrate cultural awareness into their respective programs and policies. This legislation is crucial for fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Filipino patrimony, empowering communities through cultural documentation, and ensuring that heritage preservation is a collective and coordinated effort across all levels of government and society.