Northern Samar and UST Forge Partnership for Culture and Heritage Projects

On December 12, 2024, the Provincial Government of Northern Samar, led by Governor Edwin Ongchuan, and the University of Santo Tomas (UST), represented by University Regent Rev. Fr. Ferdinand L. Bautista, O.P., PhD, on behalf of Rector Fr. Richard Ang, O.P., formalized a partnership to promote, protect, develop, and conserve the natural and cultural heritage of Northern Samar.

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) titled “PAMBUNGAD: Official Partnership Agreement” was held at the UST Sentro Turismo in the Buenaventura Paredes O.P. Building, UST Manila. This collaboration, spearheaded by UST’s Graduate School - Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics (GS-CCCPET) and the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management - UST Sentro Turismo aims to advance cultural preservation and sustainable tourism development in Northern Samar.

The partnership strengthens institutional linkages and fosters grassroots collaboration, focusing on sustainable development in tourism, culture, and the arts.  

Governor Edwin Ongchuan highlighted the partnership's importance, stating, “By documenting and celebrating the unique stories, traditions, and artistry of every municipality, we are unlocking the immense potential of our cultural and creative industries to drive tourism, empower local communities, and inspire civic pride.” 

This initiative seeks to preserve and promote Northern Samar’s rich cultural heritage through community-led efforts that encourage participatory decision-making. The goal is to instill a sense of pride and ownership among local stakeholders while showcasing the province’s unique identity.  

Digital preservation is a cornerstone of the collaboration, with efforts to digitize artifacts and establish online archives to ensure the longevity and accessibility of cultural assets. The partnership also emphasizes collaboration among stakeholders to implement conservation strategies, including architectural restoration and artifact documentation.  

Sustainable tourism is another key focus, with responsible practices such as visitor management, promoting respectful behavior, and supporting local businesses. These efforts aim to enhance visitor experiences and generate economic benefits for the community.  

Assoc. Prof. Atty. Gezzez Giezi G. Granado, DCL, CHE, Dean of the UST College of Tourism and Hospitality Management, underscored tourism’s role in fostering progress and unity, stating, “Tourism brings people together. Sa pamamagitan ng sustainable tourism development, madadala po natin ang Northern Samar sa sustainable development.”  

Representing the University of Santo Tomas were Assoc. Prof. Atty. Gezzez Giezi G. Granado, DCL, CHE, Dean of the UST College of Tourism and Hospitality Management; Prof. Melanie DP Turingan, PhD, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Letters; Prof. Michael Anthony C. Vasco, PhD, Dean of the UST Graduate School; and Assoc. Prof. Jeremaiah M. Opiniano, PhD, Director of the Research Center for Social Sciences and Education. Beverly M. Bautista, MAED from USTGS-CCCPET, also in attendance were Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes of the Department of Tourism Region VIII and other faculty members of the university.

For more news and updates, visit:
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