15/08/2026
ππππ | πππ―π¨πππ¬ ππ πππππ‘ππ«π¬ π πππ‘ππ« ππ¨π« ππ’π¬ππ¨π«π’π¬π¦π¨
In celebration of National History Month and in support of preserving the nationβs heritage through history education, Araling Panlipunan (AP) teachers from schools across Navotas City gathered for the Historismo Seminar-Workshop on August 15, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Navotas Convention Center.
Held under the theme βTransforming History Education into Tourism Advocacy,β the seminar-workshop was organized by the Navotas City Tourism Office, the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Navotas, and the Samahan ng mga G**o sa Araling Panlipunan (SAGAP).
Hosted by SAGAP Secretary Ria F. Dela Cruz, the event opened with a doxology and performance by Tanghalang Suhay, followed by the singing of Philippine national anthem.
Navotas City Tourism Officer Dr. Genaro R. Doringo delivered the opening message, emphasizing the role of AP teachers in preserving Navotasβ history. This was followed by the acknowledgement of guests and participants by Education Program Supervisor in AP Mr. Wilbert G. Balboa, while Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Meliton P. Zurbano delivered a message encouraging educators to strengthen studentsβ awareness and appreciation of the cityβs heritage.
Historian Dr. Michael Charleston "Xiao" B. Chua led the first session with the topic "Pamumumong Bagani : Ang Lingkod Bayan sa Kasaysayang Pilipino," he discussed Zeus Salazarβs framework of Filipino leadership, which identifies the datu or bagani, panday, and babaylan as the traditional leaders of the community.
Building on this framework, Chua described the qualities of an ideal Filipino leader or a Bagani leader, emphasizing that leadership requires skills, innovation, charisma, and a commitment to the common good. He stressed that true leadership is measured by service rather than political campaigns.
βAng challenge sa isang pinuno ay kung paano magbibigay ng ginhawa, hindi habang election, pero kapag sila ay nakaupo na,β he said, adding that βpag mabuti ang pinuno, giginhawa ang bayan.β
He ended his lecture by expressing hope that the country can still produce Bagani leaders and urged everyone to choose and vote for Bagani leaders.
Between the sessions, Navotas Mayor John Rey Tiangco spoke about the historical significance of the cityβs infrastructure, including its flood control systems and the Navotas Convention Center. He emphasized that education should be holistic, stressing that understanding Navotasβ history helps preserve the cityβs heritage and identity.
The second session feature Dr. Chen V. Ramos who talked about βPaglalakbay sa Nakaraan, Pagtuturo sa Hinaharap: Oportunidad at Hamon sa Pagtuturo ng Kasaysayan sa Panahon ng Generative AI," where he discussed the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI in history education.
Ramos warned that overdependence on generative AI may weaken studentsβ critical thinking, creativity, and human connection, saying that βnawawala yung concept ng creativity at humanness.β He also encouraged teachers to move beyond having students memorize historical dates and instead develop their critical thinking skills.
He promoted responsible AI use through the βAsk, Verify, Reflect, Createβ framework, stressing that teachers should not rely solely on AI and should always verify the accuracy of information and their sources.
Ramos concluded his lecture by challenging teachers to reflect on how they would use generative AI in the classroom, encouraging them to apply what they had learned to help students develop a deeper understanding of history and nationalism.
The seminar concluded with a presentation of the Navotas Tourism Development Plan, where teachers were encouraged to share insights on promoting Navotas through accurate historical information.
Sharing her insights, Schools District Supervisor Evangeline S. Trinidad emphasized integrity, accountability, and responsibility in history education, while SAGAP President Marc Angel D. Egipto delivered the closing remarks, thanking the organizers and participants. The program ended with the awarding of certificates to the teachers and participants.
Written by : Jhennylyn Dela Cruz
Photos by : Crisha Mariano
