The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) is taking steps to preserve and promote San Mateo’s rich cultural heritage through good governance and digital technology
Last 16 August 2024, the UPOU FMDS conducted a participatory Focus Group Discussion (FGD) at the San Mateo Rizal Municipal Hall as part of its Community Inclusivity, Digital Transformation, and Acceleration towards Sustainability (CIDAS) program and aligned with the University Social Responsibility (USR). The initiative aims to create a more inclusive, digitally inclined, and sustainable approach to cultural heritage preservation while fostering a mutually beneficial partnership between UPOU and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of San Mateo, Rizal.
Before the FGD, an ocular visit to seven of San Mateo’s nine WiFi hubs was held. These hubs, located at Aranzazu Church, the public market, Guitnang Bayan 1, San Mateo Chapel Dulong Bayan 1, Paraiso Ampid, and Public Market Ampid 1, were assessed for their potential role in how these digital hubs could be integrated into efforts to enhance community awareness and preservation of San Mateo’s cultural history.
The FGD brought together representatives from the youth, elderly, and local artists to discuss ways to interpret, preserve, and promote San Mateo’s cultural heritage. The youth emphasized the need for digital platforms to connect with their generation, while the elderly stressed the importance of intergenerational learning, involving the educational sector to facilitate sustained efforts. A member of the local artist guild proposed creative initiatives to make culture more accessible and attractive.
The FGD generated valuable insights into the current state and future directions of cultural heritage in San Mateo. A key takeaway was the need for a multifaceted approach that combines good governance with innovative cultural promotion.
This FGD marks a significant step in preserving and promoting the town’s rich history. The discussions highlighted both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, informing the development of a comprehensive strategy to ensure the sustainability of San Mateo’s cultural legacy.
Building on the insights gathered from the FGD, the next step involves conducting an Open Educational Resource (OER) shoot featuring the mayor and local historians to further document San Mateo’s cultural heritage. This research project helps address most, if not all, United Nations (UN) 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). One of its most highlighted impacts would be achieving SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. This research project assists the LGU of San Mateo to keep an updated inventory of their local natural and cultural heritage, both tangible and intangible, and establish mechanisms for its preservation and conservation according to international and national standards.
This ongoing collaboration between government entities and the academe exemplifies a model of effective partnership for sustainable development. It not only preserves the region’s historical and environmental assets but also promotes cultural and historical continuity. It enhances the LGU’s capacity for informed decision-making and makes its governance culturally-sensitive, ensuring that development efforts respect cultural heritage and environmental integrity.
Written by Anne Pauline Del Rosario ♦ Edited by Mr. Larry N. Cruz ♦ Cross-posted from FMDS Website
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