BAHAY LIKHA

𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 | 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟒
July 23, 2026 | Mariveles, Bataan

Day 4 of the Mariveles Cultural Mapping Training highlighted the importance of documenting Intangible Cultural Heritage—the traditions, practices, oral histories, local knowledge, and cultural expressions that continue to shape the identity of the community. The training was graced by the presence of Hon. Ace Jello "AJ" Concepcion, Mayor of Mariveles, Bataan, together with Atty. Fe Concepcion, Chairperson of the Municipal Tourism Council of Mariveles, whose support underscored the local government's commitment to preserving, promoting, and safeguarding the municipality's rich cultural heritage.

The afternoon sessions focused on transforming field observations into well-organized cultural mapping records. Participants carefully reviewed, analyzed, and consolidated the information they had gathered before presenting their initial documentation to fellow participants and facilitators.

The day's learning concluded with Module 8: Movable Cultural Heritage, which introduced participants to the documentation and significance of cultural objects such as heirlooms, artifacts, archival materials, artworks, and traditional implements. The session emphasized that preserving these movable cultural resources is equally important in safeguarding the history, identity, and shared heritage of Mariveles for future generations.

𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 | 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟑
July 22, 2026 | Mariveles, Bataan

The third day of the Mariveles Cultural Mapping Training continued with an immersive fieldwork activity focused on Natural Heritage, where participants documented significant natural landscapes, ecosystems, and environmental features that contribute to the municipality's cultural identity. Through careful observation and systematic documentation, participants further enhanced their practical skills in applying cultural mapping methodologies in the field.

As the field activities concluded, participants devoted the afternoon to processing and organizing the information gathered from the community. The collected data were carefully reviewed, encoded, and prepared for the initial presentation of findings, where teams shared their observations and received valuable feedback.

The day's training concluded with Module 7: Intangible Cultural Heritage, which emphasized the importance of preserving living traditions, oral histories, performing arts, social practices, rituals, knowledge systems, and other cultural expressions that continue to shape the identity and heritage of the people of Mariveles.

𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 | 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟐
July 21, 2026 | Mariveles, Bataan

The second day of the Mariveles Cultural Mapping Training marked the participants' transition from theoretical discussions to actual field documentation, allowing them to apply the concepts and methodologies introduced during the opening day of the training.

Representatives from Bataan Peninsula State University, through the Research and Development Office (RDO) and BPSU Bahay LIKHA (Linangan ng Kasaysayan, Humanidades, at Antropolohiya), joined fellow participants in conducting fieldwork focused on Immovable Heritage. Cultural properties were carefully observed, documented, and recorded following standard cultural mapping protocols to ensure that each site's historical, architectural, and cultural significance was accurately captured.

Following the field activities, participants consolidated and organized the information gathered before presenting their initial findings. These collaborative discussions provided an opportunity to validate observations, refine documentation techniques, and strengthen the overall quality of the collected data. The day's sessions concluded with Module 6: Natural Heritage, broadening participants' understanding of the importance of documenting landscapes, ecosystems, and other natural features that contribute to the cultural identity and heritage of Mariveles.

𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 | 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟏

The journey of documenting and preserving the cultural heritage of Mariveles officially began as the Mariveles Cultural Mapping Training opened its five-day training and workshop on July 20, 2026, at Dart Cafe, Mariveles, Bataan.

As one of the project's institutional partners, Bataan Peninsula State University, through the Research and Development Office (RDO) and BPSU Bahay LIKHA (Linangan ng Kasaysayan, Humanidades, at Antropolohiya), joined the Municipal Government of Mariveles and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in equipping participants with the knowledge and competencies needed to undertake cultural mapping.

The first day established the foundation of the training through discussions on the concepts of culture and cultural heritage, the principles and frameworks of cultural mapping, its significance in heritage conservation, and the ethical standards that guide field documentation. Participants were likewise introduced to the standard cultural mapping process, from identifying cultural resources to preparing for field validation, culminating in the initial inventory of cultural properties and planning for the succeeding fieldwork activities.

More than creating an inventory, cultural mapping is a shared commitment to recognizing the stories, places, traditions, and memories that shape a community's identity. Through this collaborative undertaking, BPSU Bahay LIKHA continues to strengthen partnerships with local government units and cultural stakeholders in promoting research, heritage documentation, and community-based conservation initiatives that will benefit both present and future generations.

Bahay LiKHA proudly celebrates the international achievement of its Center Manager, Prof. Bryan Floro, who has been chosen to represent Bataan Peninsula State University and the Philippines at the 10th Annual Regional Lecturer Workshop on Developing Knowledge and Skills for Teaching Peace and Transformative Peacebuilding in Southeast Asia, happening in Bangkok, Thailand, from 13–16 July 2026.

This distinguished opportunity brings together educators and peace advocates to exchange knowledge, strengthen collaboration, and advance transformative approaches to peace education. Prof. Floro's selection reflects his unwavering commitment to academic excellence and his dedication to promoting peacebuilding through education.

With the workshop fully sponsored by the organizers, this recognition highlights the trust and confidence placed in his expertise and leadership. As he takes part in this meaningful international engagement, we are confident that he will proudly carry the values and aspirations of our university and our nation.

The Bahay LiKHA extends its warmest congratulations and best wishes to Prof. Bryan Floro. May this journey be filled with enriching experiences, meaningful connections, and opportunities to make a lasting impact.

Safe travels, and congratulations on this well-deserved achievement!

Bahay LiKHA participated in the consultation meeting organized by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) on the proposed research partnership focusing on Indigenous Peoples (IP) Education and Last Mile Schools.

The event featured presentations from Dr. Karol Mark Yee, Executive Director of EDCOM II, representatives from the Department of Education – Indigenous Peoples Education Office (IPSEO), and Dr. Maria Mercedes E. Arzadon of the University of the Philippines College of Education, who shared key insights on the initiative's context, research priorities, and guidelines.

During the breakout session on the refinement of research questions, Bahay LiKHA joined the Cultural Heritage and Indigenous Language group, participating in discussions aimed at strengthening research efforts that promote the preservation, documentation, revitalization, and integration of Indigenous knowledge systems, languages, and cultural heritage in education.

Bahay LiKHA remains committed to supporting collaborative research initiatives that advance inclusive, culturally responsive, and community-centered education for Indigenous Peoples communities.

BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS, PRESERVING HERITAGE!

Bahay LiKHA ng Bataan continues to strengthen its commitment to culture, research, and community engagement through meaningful collaborations with local stakeholders.

On June 10, 2026, Bahay LiKHA ng Bataan and the Municipal Tourism Office of Bagac conducted a coordination meeting for the Cultural Mapping Project in the Municipality of Bagac. The meeting served as an avenue to discuss plans, strategies, and collaborative efforts necessary for the successful documentation and preservation of the municipality’s cultural resources.

As cultural mapping initiatives move forward, partnerships such as these pave the way for a deeper understanding, documentation, and safeguarding of Bagac’s rich cultural heritage. Through shared vision and collective action, local stories, traditions, historical landmarks, and community identities are given greater opportunities to be recognized, preserved, and celebrated.

Together, Bahay LiKHA ng Bataan and its partners look forward to fostering more initiatives that connect research with communities and contribute to preserving Bataan’s cultural legacy for future generations.

Congratulations to our BAHAY LiKHA Staff, Jay Suba Ramirez, for successfully passing the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET)!

Your hard work, perseverance, and dedication have finally paid off. This achievement is not only a personal victory but also an inspiration to everyone around you. May this milestone open more opportunities for you to continue shaping minds and touching lives through education.

We are proud of you. Congratulations
Sir Jay S. Ramirez, LPT

Bahay LIKHA proudly announces that Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU) is now officially accredited by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), led by Bahay LIKHA.

This significant recognition underscores the steadfast commitment of Bahay LIKHA and BPSU to the preservation, promotion, and advancement of Philippine culture and the arts. It further reflects BPSU’s dedication to excellence in cultural initiatives, research, and community engagement.

This achievement was made possible through the invaluable leadership and support of Dr. Ruby B. Santos-Matibag, University President; Prof. Reynan P. Calderon, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Technology Transfer; Dr. Job D. Paguio, Director of the Research and Development Office; and Adona T. Dela Rosa, Chairperson of the Research and Development Office–Balanga Campus, along with Dr. Laarni C. Canare, Director of the Center for Culture and Arts, whose guidance and commitment greatly contributed to the successful accreditation.

Under the leadership of Prof. Bryan M. Floro, Center Manager of Bahay LIKHA, together with Dr. Ryan R. Pecson, Unit Head for History; Prof. Joshua Sarmiento, Unit Head for Humanities; and Prof. Shemuel Serrano, Unit Head for Technology, the team’s collective efforts and dedication further ensured the successful attainment of this accreditation.

Bahay LIKHA extends its sincere appreciation to all individuals and partners whose collective efforts made this achievement possible. As it moves forward, Bahay LIKHA and BPSU remains committed to strengthening their role in cultural development and nation-building.

📢 CALL FOR PROPOSALS

Bahay LiKHA (Linangan ng Kasaysayan, Humanidades at Antropolohiya) ng Bataan invites researchers, scholars, and practitioners to submit innovative research proposals that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in history, humanities, and anthropology, with strong relevance to community and institutional development.

We welcome interdisciplinary and community-engaged studies that deepen understanding, strengthen cultural awareness, and support evidence-based initiatives for development.

📌 Submit your proposals and be part of shaping meaningful research for heritage, society, and public service.

For submission guidelines and deadlines, please contact the Bahay LiKHA office.