Readings In Philippine History PDF

Readings in Philippine History Page 1 of 9 Doing and Appreciating History and Heritage Topic: DOING AND APPRECIATING HISTORY AND HERITAGE III. LESSON PROPER Multifaceted Approach to Historical Resear...

Readings in Philippine History Page 1 of 9 Doing and Appreciating History and Heritage Topic: DOING AND APPRECIATING HISTORY AND HERITAGE III. LESSON PROPER Multifaceted Approach to Historical Research Understanding history goes beyond knowledge; it requires active participation in shaping its narrative. By writing about the past and present, individuals can ensure diverse perspectives are included, fostering a more inclusive view of societal development. Key research areas include online resources, library studies, and biographies. Developing these skills allows students and researchers to gather and interpret data effectively, creating informed narratives that contribute to meaningful historical discussions. Historical research employs various methods and resources to deepen our understanding of the past. The internet serves as a vital tool, providing extensive information, but researchers must navigate it carefully to avoid plagiarism and misinformation. Search engines like Google and Yahoo! assist in locating sources, while Google Scholar offers access to academic articles, and Google Books allows users to preview texts. Wikipedia can be a helpful starting point for topics, but it’s essential to verify information through credible citations. Critical thinking plays a crucial role in online research, ensuring accuracy by evaluating source credibility and combining various resources. Libraries and archives are indispensable for accessing primary and secondary sources, which are essential for crafting accurate historical narratives. History students need to learn how to navigate these institutions, as many research assignments require physical materials that may not be available online. Modern libraries have transitioned to digital catalogs, making it easier to search for relevant resources like books, journals, and maps. The National Library of the Philippines, among other valuable resources such as the National Archives and university libraries, offers extensive materials that support effective research. Another key aspect of historical research is the study of life histories and biographies, focusing on individual lives that often influence historical events. While figures like Jesus Christ and José Rizal exemplify the impact of notable individuals, the stories of ordinary people also provide essential context for broader historical trends. Biographical research can be complex, requiring attention to factors like family background and environment to understand an individual's life within its historical context. By integrating online resources, libraries, and the study of individual experiences, researchers can create richer narratives that reflect the complexities of history. Local History Local history is the study of specific communities or geographic areas, encompassing various aspects such as cultural and social history. While debates exist regarding its precise definition and scope— whether it should focus on communities, institutions, or prominent figures—recent studies advocate for a broader approach that integrates all these elements. Local history plays a vital role in preserving collective memory, contributing to national unity, and offering alternative perspectives that challenge extreme nationalist narratives. By facilitating a "history from below," it enriches the understanding of national narratives with nuanced interpretations. However, local history faces challenges, including limited access to sources compared to national history and the need for innovative methodologies, such as oral histories, to capture the full spectrum of local experiences. Additionally, local historical societies often document significant events and maintain records, Readings in Philippine History Page 2 of 9 Doing and Appreciating History and Heritage while amateur historians and archivists contribute to the preservation of local heritage. Many municipalities and cities promote their local history through museums, enhancing awareness and appreciation of their unique cultural narratives. Benefits of Local History 1. Educational Benefits: Increased interest in local history provides students with hands-on learning opportunities through interactions with experts like museum curators and archaeologists, enhancing their educational experience beyond the classroom. 2. Psychological Benefits: Studying local history helps individuals understand their environment and develop a deeper appreciation for the past, emphasizing the need for teachers to utilize available resources and make local history engaging and relevant. Principles in Conducting Local History Resource-led: Teachers should identify available resources before deciding on the focus of the study. Student-centered: Students should do most of the work, with teachers providing support. Inquiry-led: Teachers should encourage students to "act as historians" by researching familiar local areas. Diverse sources: Use a variety of sources, including museum visits, oral history, artifacts, and primary documents. Engaging: Find interesting details or mysteries to capture students' interest. Evidence-based: Evaluate evidence critically, even considering local legends and stories. Expert involvement: Include local experts like authors, archaeologists, and historians. Community engagement: Utilize local resources like libraries, record offices, and community groups. Showcase your work: Share the results of your project through an exhibition, open evening, publication, school museum, radio program, or assembly presentation. Oral History Oral history involves the collection and preservation of personal narratives and memories through recorded interviews, relying on firsthand accounts from individuals or community members who have witnessed or experienced historical events. These accounts are transcribed, cataloged, and made accessible to researchers, making oral history crucial, especially in the absence of written documents. It plays an essential role in preserving the experiences of marginalized groups, such as the urban poor and indigenous peoples, and documents the collective past of communities, offering deeper insights into historical events and contexts. However, oral history faces challenges, including questions about the reliability of memory and its potential inaccuracies. Some historians consider it a supplement to written sources rather than a primary one. Despite these criticisms, oral history remains a vital tool for understanding the past and preserving diverse perspectives, providing valuable insights that written sources often overlook. Elements of Oral History Orality: Oral history deals with spoken language, which is often overlooked in favor of written Readings in Philippine History Page 3 of 9 Doing and Appreciating History and Heritage transcriptions. Narrative: Oral histories are inherently stories, reflecting how people interpret the world through their personal experiences. Performance: Oral history is a form of communication that involves not only words but also physical expressions and vocal delivery. Subjectivity: Oral history recognizes the subjective nature of all sources, valuing personal perspectives and emotional responses. Memory: Oral history relies on human memory, which is subjective and prone to inaccuracies. Mutability: Oral history is dynamic and can change over time due to factors like memory, performance, and inter-subjectivity. Sequence for Oral History Research Oral history research involves interviewing individuals to capture their memories, which are recorded to create a historical record. This method relies on memory and spoken words, using various recording techniques. According to Moyer (1993), the steps are: 1. Formulate a central question or issue. 2. Plan the project, including budget and timelines. 3. Conduct background research. 4. Conduct interviews. 5. Process the interviews. 6. Evaluate the research, possibly returning to step 1 or moving to step 7. 7. Organize and present results. 8. Archive the materials. National Historical Shrines and Museums National historical shrines and museums play a critical role in preserving a nation's heritage and collective memory. They serve as physical reminders of key events, figures, and movements that shaped the country's history. By housing artifacts, documents, and monuments, these institutions help foster national identity and promote a deeper understanding of the past. They also provide educational opportunities, offering both formal and informal learning experiences for students, researchers, and the general public. By visiting these sites, individuals can reflect on historical struggles, triumphs, and the evolution of societal values. Moreover, these shrines and museums contribute to national pride by commemorating heroic acts and sacrifices, ensuring that the lessons and legacies of the past are passed on to future generations. In the Philippines, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) actively preserves and maintains these important sites, ensuring that they remain accessible to the public. Through educational programs, research, and preservation efforts, the NHCP plays a vital role in keeping historical narratives alive and relevant in contemporary society. Readings in Philippine History Page 4 of 9 Doing and Appreciating History and Heritage Example of Historical Shrines in the Philippines Rizal Monument (Luneta Park, Manila): This monument honors Dr. José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, and marks the site of his execution on December 30, 1896. It serves as a symbol of Philippine nationalism and the struggle for independence. Aguinaldo Shrine (Kawit, Cavite): The site of the declaration of Philippine independence on June 12, 1898, this shrine is dedicated to Emilio Aguinaldo, the first president of the Philippines. The house showcases historical artifacts from the revolutionary era. Bataan Death March Memorial (Mariveles, Bataan): This site commemorates the heroic struggle of Filipino and American soldiers during World War II, particularly during the Bataan Death March in April 1942. It honors those who suffered and died during this infamous event. Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor, Mount Samat, Bataan): This shrine honors the bravery of Filipino and American soldiers who fought in the Battle of Bataan during World War II. It features a towering cross and a museum dedicated to their heroism. Balay Ni Mayang (Samar): This historical site in Basey, Samar, is known for its role in the early days of the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule and serves as a cultural heritage site. Lapu-Lapu Shrine (Mactan, Cebu): This monument commemorates Lapu-Lapu, the first Filipino hero who defeated Ferdinand Magellan in the Battle of Mactan in 1521. It symbolizes the resistance of the Filipino people against foreign invaders. Magellan Shrine (Mactan, Cebu): Located near the Lapu-Lapu Shrine, this site commemorates Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese explorer, and acknowledges the historical significance of his expedition, including his defeat at the hands of Lapu-Lapu. Kawit Shrine (Cavite): Also known as the Aguinaldo Shrine, this site marks the place where the Philippine Declaration of Independence was proclaimed. It features memorabilia and exhibits from the revolution. Sandugo (Blood Compact) Shrine (Tagbilaran, Bohol): This shrine commemorates the blood compact between Datu Sikatuna and Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi in 1565, symbolizing friendship and peace between Filipinos and Spaniards. Pinaglabanan Shrine (San Juan, Metro Manila): This shrine honors the bravery of the Katipuneros who fought in the Battle of San Juan del Monte, a significant event in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule. People Power Monument (Quezon City): Located along EDSA, this monument commemorates the nonviolent People Power Revolution of 1986, which led to the overthrow of President Ferdinand Marcos and the restoration of democracy in the Philippines. EDSA Shrine (Quezon City): This shrine was built to commemorate the peaceful protests during the People Power Revolution. It features a statue of Our Lady of Peace and serves as a place of reflection on the importance of democracy and freedom. Sultan Kudarat Monument (Isulan, Sultan Kudarat): This monument honors Sultan Kudarat, the Muslim ruler of Mindanao, who fought against Spanish colonization. It recognizes his significance in the history of Muslim resistance in the Philippines. Readings in Philippine History Page 5 of 9 Doing and Appreciating History and Heritage Philippine Cultural Performances Cultural expressions vary around the world, with folk dances being a vibrant reflection of each country’s identity. For example, the Chinese have the Dragon Dance, the Japanese perform Bon Odori, and Americans enjoy Square Dancing. In the Philippines, often called “The Pearl of the Orient,” there is a rich array of folk dances that showcase the nation's history and diversity. The Philippines consists of 7,107 islands grouped into three main regions: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Each region has its own languages, histories, religions, and traditions, all of which influence their artistic expressions. For instance, the Tinikling dance from the Visayas mimics birds moving between bamboo poles, while Singkil from Mindanao narrates a princess’s journey through a forest. These dances not only highlight artistic talent but also reflect resilience and cultural heritage. As we explore these regions, we encounter various dance styles, costumes, and talents. Many of these performances have roots in the daily struggles of Filipinos, transforming chores into art. For example, the Banga dance, which involves balancing pots on the head, symbolizes the agricultural way of life in rural areas. Folk dances are vital to Filipino culture, promoting a sense of identity and community. They help preserve traditions, pass down stories, and strengthen social ties. Additionally, cultural performances are integral to important life events like weddings, harvest festivals, and religious celebrations. Through these dances, Filipinos honor their ancestors, express cultural pride, and ensure their rich heritage is celebrated for future generations. Example of Philippine Folk Dances Itik-Itik: This dance mimics duck movements and originated from a baptismal party where a woman named Kanang choreographed its steps. Tinikling: Known as the national dance, it imitates the tikling bird's movements using bamboo poles that create a rhythm. Sayaw sa Bangko: Performed on a narrow bench, this dance challenges balance and includes acrobatic elements rooted in Pangasinan. Binasuan: This festive dance involves balancing glasses of rice wine while performing spins and rolls, originating from Bayambang. Pandanggo sa Ilaw: A lively dance from Lubang Island, it involves balancing oil lamps while dancing to 3/4 time music. Pandanggo Oasiwas: Similar to Pandanggo sa Ilaw, it celebrates fishermen's good catches using cloths to swing lamps. Maglalatik: A mock war dance representing a fight over coconut meat, performed during the fiesta of Biñan. Kuratsa: A traditional courtship dance with three parts, showcasing a chase as the couple performs different tempos. La Jota Moncadeña: This dance fuses Spanish and Ilocano steps and is often performed during celebrations and funeral processions. Kappa Malong-Malong: A dance influenced by Muslim culture demonstrating various ways to wear the malong garment. Habanera Botolena: Influenced by flamenco, this dance combines Filipino and Spanish Readings in Philippine History Page 6 of 9 Doing and Appreciating History and Heritage elements and is popular at weddings. Pantomina: Mimicking dove courtship, it is significant in the Sorsogon Kasanggayahan Festival, mainly performed by elders. Cariñosa: This flirtatious dance features movements behind fans or handkerchiefs, emphasizing courtship between dancers. Surtido: A square dance blending French, Spanish, and Mexican influences, traditionally led by a head couple. Singkil: A dance for single women, involving graceful movements between bamboo poles, enhanced by fans and scarves. Polkabal: Comprising nine steps with European influences, this dance features various movements, including a bullfight reenactment. Magkasuyo: A romantic dance variation of the balse, blending influences from various cultures, popular in Quezon province. Indigenous Practices, Religious Rituals, and Rites Indigenous practices encompass the events, activities, social groupings, and languages that shape daily life and identity. These practices reflect the culture or subculture of specific ethnic groups and often include traditional customs passed down through generations. While the term can apply to any cultural expression, it is particularly associated with practices rooted in the history and traditions of indigenous communities. The significance of indigenous practices is increasingly recognized in discussions about cultural rights, with many jurisdictions working to protect the rights of indigenous and minority groups to maintain their traditions. In the Philippines, these practices are deeply intertwined with the cultural and historical fabric of the nation. Various indigenous groups, such as the Ifugao, T'boli, and Aeta, continue to uphold their traditional customs, which are closely linked to their spirituality, community life, and connection to nature. Religious rituals play a vital role in these communities, encompassing ceremonies related to harvests, healing, and ancestral worship. Many of these rituals blend indigenous beliefs with Catholicism and other influences introduced during colonization, showcasing the dynamic nature of cultural practices. Festivals such as the Ifugao's Imbayah and the T'boli's Aponibolinayen serve as vivid expressions of these traditions, celebrating agricultural cycles and ancestral heritage. These indigenous practices and rituals are essential for preserving cultural identity and showcasing resilience and pride. They play a crucial role in the spiritual and communal lives of many Filipinos, reflecting a harmonious relationship with the natural world and honoring ancestral wisdom. By maintaining these traditions, indigenous communities contribute significantly to the Philippines' rich and diverse cultural heritage, fostering a deeper appreciation for the country's historical narratives and cultural diversity. Example of Indigenous Practices, Religious Rituals, and Rites in the Philippines Indigenous Practices o Bayanihan: A communal unity practice where community members help one another, particularly in moving homes. o Tattooing: Traditional body art used for personal identity and social status among various Indigenous groups. Readings in Philippine History Page 7 of 9 Doing and Appreciating History and Heritage o Hunting and Gathering: Practices centered on sustainable food sourcing and respect for nature. Religious Rituals o Anito Worship: Ancestor and nature spirit veneration practiced by many Indigenous groups. o Baylan Rituals: Healing ceremonies led by spiritual leaders who invoke spirits for guidance and healing. Rites o Marriage Rites: Varying ceremonies, often involving dowries and community participation. o Death Rites: Customs that include elaborate burial practices and mourning periods to honor the deceased. National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009 The National Cultural Heritage Act (Republic Act No. 10066), signed into law on March 25, 2009, aims to preserve the cultural heritage of the Philippines, particularly historic buildings over 50 years old. The act was a response to significant losses of heritage, such as the demolition of the Manila Jai Alai Building in 2000 and the destruction of the Huluga archaeological site in 2003. Key components of the act include: Philippine Registry of Cultural Property (PRECUP): Establishes a registry for all cultural properties in the country, maintained by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in collaboration with cultural agencies and local governments. Heritage Designation: The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) can declare houses of significant cultural importance as "Heritage Houses," marking their historical value. Cultural Property Requirements: o Local government units must maintain an inventory of cultural properties and report to the NCCA. o All government entities must report ownership of cultural properties and register them within three years. o Private collectors must also register their properties, retaining ownership while ensuring confidentiality. Definition of Cultural Property: It encompasses all creative human products revealing a nation’s identity, including buildings, religious sites, and intangible heritage. Structures at least 50 years old are presumed important cultural properties, requiring registration with the NCCA. Ownership and Preservation: Property owners retain ownership of their heritage structures, while the government recognizes their heritage value and offers funding for preservation efforts. Readings in Philippine History Page 8 of 9 Doing and Appreciating History and Heritage Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act of 1997 The Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act of 1997, also known as Republic Act No. 8371, was enacted to recognize, protect, and promote the rights of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs) in the Philippines. This act aims to secure IPs' ancestral lands, safeguard their cultural heritage, and uphold their right to self-governance. National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) The act establishes the NCIP as the primary government agency for implementing laws and policies related to Indigenous rights. Composed of representatives from various Indigenous groups, the NCIP functions as a liaison between the government and Indigenous communities to support and promote their rights. Key Components of the Act Ancestral Domain Claims: Provides guidelines for documenting ancestral land claims to protect Indigenous lands and territories. Cultural Preservation: Promotes the preservation and sharing of traditional knowledge and practices to sustain Indigenous cultural heritage. Community Development and Education: Includes programs aimed at building skills and knowledge within Indigenous communities. Funding and Resources The act allocates funding to the NCIP to ensure it can effectively perform its duties. Resources are directed toward projects that benefit Indigenous communities and support their cultural, social, and economic development. Integration into National Development Indigenous rights are mandated to be integrated into national development plans, aligning with broader policy frameworks that recognize and uphold the significance of Indigenous culture and heritage. Role in National Identity Republic Act No. 8371 highlights the importance of Indigenous Peoples in enriching the national identity and cultural heritage of the Philippines, ensuring their rights are acknowledged, respected, and preserved. Challenges in Preserving History and Heritage The preservation of historical heritage and culture in the Philippines faces significant challenges, underscored by recent events like the fire at the Manila Central Post Office. This incident highlighted the vulnerability of the country’s architectural heritage, which has suffered from neglect, commercial interests, and inconsistent implementation of protective legislation, such as the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009. Despite some successful preservation efforts, many historical sites are at risk due to prioritization of new developments and inadequate funding. In parallel, the intangible cultural heritage (ICH) of the Philippines, a rich tapestry of traditions passed through generations, also confronts threats from rapid modernization. As younger generations lean towards Readings in Philippine History Page 9 of 9 Doing and Appreciating History and Heritage contemporary lifestyles, there is a growing concern about cultural erosion. Traditional practices, performing arts like Kulintang music and Tinikling dance, and oral traditions such as epic poetry, are essential for maintaining cultural identity. However, their survival hinges on community engagement, education, and supportive policies that promote the intergenerational transmission of cultural knowledge. To ensure a balanced approach to development and heritage preservation, it is crucial for the government, cultural experts, and communities to collaborate in protecting both tangible and intangible cultural assets. This dual focus not only safeguards the historical fabric of the nation but also nurtures the vibrant identity of the Filipino people, reinforcing their connection to their roots while adapting to modern challenges.