NOTC creates resolution to preserve cultural heritage

The Negros Oriental Tourism Council (NOTC) recently passed a resolution for the conservation and preservation of historical structures in the province in line with with Republic Act 10066, or National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009. 

Under the resolution, structures that are 50 years and older, such as bridges, churches, bell towers, houses, furniture and fixtures, habitats for animals, musical instruments, and artifacts in Negros Oriental that have an impact on historical, cultural and environmental values will be conserved and preserved.

In a recent council meeting, Dr. Nichol Elman, NOTC co-chairman, discussed the significance of preserving Negros Oriental’s cultural heritage for future generations to appreciate the structures’ legacy and historical value.

Elman said the resolution will include a motion for the governor to sign a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) for possible funding of the project.

He suggested that Silliman University’s Philippine Historical Society can sign a MOA with the provincial government so that it can handle the mapping of structures and historical artifacts in the different municipalities.

Meanwhile, council member France Martinez said the promotion of cultural tourism, such as dances, engineering, old workmanship, and raw materials are rarely found in Negros Oriental, such as the old assembly hall and marine laboratory in Silliman, and the Dumaguete cathedral and bell tower, among others.

Martinez said the cathedral and bell tower are symbols of old workmanship, since huge limestones were fitted precisely in building them.

However, he lamented that the cathedral is now covered with cement and tiles when it was refurbished.

Martinez pointed out that the locomotive in Central Azucarera de Bais was a cultural attraction in Bais City years back.

He cited the important role of the government in preserving, maintaining, and marketing cultural tourism as one of the major drivers of economic development.