According to  Eric Zerrudo, professor at University of Sto. Tomas- Center for conservation  of Cultural Property and Environment on the Tropics, in developing economies, there is tension among past heritage vs. Progress, history vs. Economy and soul vs. Stomach. Development, modernization, westernization  and globalization are now the battlecry of many educational institutions in the country. To them, heritage is just a thing of the past. Anything related to historical existence, education and its economic value is considered a non-profit venturing scheme.

                Heritage is defined as anything of value from the past that gives meaning and identity to the present and inspire future generation.

                Some priviledge filipinos able to visit the statue of Liberty in New York U.S.A. , Eiffel Tower in Paris, France or maybe the Inca ruins in Peru, in our hometurf, they hardly know the place where the Battle of Tirad Pass is. It’s obvious that their sense of identity is missing. How can we teach students to love our country, when in fact we are not familiar with some of its historical identity?

                To be able to inspire our new generation, we should let students  realize the significance of knowing, loving and preserving our cultural heritage. We should value our post to be able to live at present  and the distant future. As Mao Tse Tung once said,”Little knowledge is dangerous”.

                                                                                                                                Source:Eric Zerrudo,UST Professor

By: Judith E. Tanael | ARSENAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL