Kabilin: Tapestry of human identity

I have learned to distinguish culture from heritage in a straightforward and understandable way. The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. distinguishes between culture and heritage on its website, despite the fact that the terms are occasionally used synonymously. But why is this the case, exactly? Over time, as we have used these two terms more frequently, we have grown less aware of their distinctions and even less aware of how they both contribute to defining our identity as Filipinos.

A group's culture is made up of the customs and traits that characterize their way of life, like their common values and beliefs. It includes language, art, and tradition, among other things. On the other hand, heritage comprises tangible, intangible, and natural aspects that have been passed down from the past and are thereby conserved for future generations. Examples of this include historical sites and traditional music.

Society is based on the foundations of culture and legacy. They are not merely artifacts from the past; rather, they are dynamic, living systems that influence our values, identities, and interactions with the outside world.

Because culture and tradition serve as a storehouse of information and insight, they are significant. By connecting people to their ancestors and offering them a position within a story that spans millennia, they foster a sense of continuity and belonging. Additionally, they promote community cohesion by making sure that, despite the unavoidable changes that occur over time, there is still a thread that unites individuals.

Culture and heritage encounter several obstacles in the modern world. Cultural variety is in danger due to globalization, even as it presents chances for cross-cultural communication. Local customs and cultures may be lost due to the spread of a dominating global culture. Furthermore, economic concerns frequently take precedence over the importance of preservation, leading to modernization and development at the expense of historical sites.

The homogenization of language poses a serious additional difficulty. Numerous indigenous languages are in danger of disappearing as dominant languages spread, taking with them a treasure of cultural knowledge and identity. Furthermore, as seen by the intentional targeting of cultural sites in conflict zones, political conflicts and societal upheavals can result in the destruction of cultural heritage.

Preserving the diversity of the global cultural landscape depends on the safeguarding of culture and heritage. It entails proactive measures to protect both material and immaterial components, such as documenting and reviving endangered languages and customs and restoring historic buildings.

An essential component of this effort is education. We can teach young people respect for others and an understanding of their own culture by introducing cultural heritage into the curriculum. Additionally, technology can help document and virtually preserve cultural activities and artifacts so that a larger audience can access them.

For example, the yearly Gabii sa Kabilin celebration in Cebu allows attendees to explore museums and historical places at night. On May 10, 2024, the seventeenth edition was held, with a theme honoring Cebu's distinct history and culture. Visitors can rediscover the pride in being Bisaya while taking in special performances, activities, and offerings.

An invaluable part of our rich history is Kabilin. We have this to hold on to and pass on to the future from our past. Ultimately, culture and heritage are the vital lifeblood of communities, not just historical relics. They give our lives meaning, shape our perspective, and act as a guide for the future.