as a castle, an archaeological site, a church and graveyard, a monument – or your school), a street
• Geo-political history: an area like a village or housing estate, a whole town.
• Local culture, indigenous knowledge systems and practices of a particular group in a geographical area, folklore, myths, epic, and songs/music.
• Family history, life of a particular individual, etc.
Importance:
• It gives us a holistic view about crucial and controversial events that took place (or are taking place) in our local communities and its effect vis-à-vis to national affairs.
• It paves the way to clear understanding of historical patterns and their connections with each other that procures vivid view of history in general.
• allows us to study national events within the context of local communities
Sources :
• Local environments e.g. google maps, street signage, old post-boxes, signs, plaques, foot scrapers and other forms of street furniture , building clues, monuments, landmarks, drawings, paintings, photographs, house plans, building plans, documents from local priests, land titles from LGU or Registry of Deeds, eyewitnesses, archaelogical crafts, school records, newspapers, journals, letters etc.
Methodology:
• Interview, content analysis for documents, archival research, archaeolgical excavations
ORAL HISTORY
Oral history is an invaluable source of information, particularly for periods where written records are scarce. It captures the lived experiences, perspectives, and memories of individuals and communities, providing insights into everyday life, social structures, and cultural practices. However, it's crucial to approach oral history with a critical lens, recognizing that memories can be influenced by personal biases, time, and cultural context.
Promoting local and oral history involves several key initiatives:
• Documenting and preserving oral traditions: This can be done through interviews, recordings, and transcriptions, ensuring the preservation of valuable historical knowledge.
• Establishing local archives and museums: These institutions can serve as repositories for oral histories, artifacts, and other materials related to local history, making them accessible to researchers and the public.
• Integrating local history into educational curricula: This will help students develop a deeper understanding of their own communities and the diverse history of the Philippines.
• Supporting local historians and researchers: Providing resources, funding, and recognition for those dedicated to uncovering and sharing local history is essential.
ORAL HISTORY: Meaning, Scope, Importance, and Sources
Meaning:
• Oral history is the systematic collection of living people’s testimony about their own experiences. (Park, 2013)
• Oral history can be defined as the recording, preservation and interpretation of historical information, based on the personal experiences and opinions of the speaker. (Centre for Urban History-University of Leicester )
Scope :
• Geo-political history: an area like a village or housing estate, a whole town.
• Local culture, indigenous knowledge systems and practices of a particular group in a geographical area, folklore, myths, music history, epic, etc.
• Family history, life of a particular individual, etc
Importance:
• helps us understand how individuals and communities experienced the forces of history.
• teaches us what has changed and what has stayed the same over time.
• preserves for future generations a sound portrait of who we are in the present and what we remember about the past. (Baylor University Manual for Oral History)
Sources:
• Eyewitnesses, priests, tribal elders, members of a particular group.
Methodology and Ethics:
• Oral interview, recording (audio-video) but needs informed consent, data transcription.
B. MUSEUMS AND HISTORICAL SHRINES IN THE PHILIPPINES
Museums and historical shrines serve as vital gateways to the past, offering tangible evidence of Philippine history and culture. They house artifacts, documents, and exhibits that bring historical events to life, fostering a deeper appreciation for the country's heritage.
Critical evaluation of museums and historical shrines involves assessing their:
• Accuracy and authenticity: Ensuring that exhibits are based on sound historical research and present accurate information is paramount.
• Representativeness: Museums and shrines should strive to reflect the diverse history and culture of the Philippines, avoiding biases and narrow perspectives.
• Accessibility and inclusivity: They should be accessible to all members of society, regardless of background or ability, and offer engaging and informative experiences for visitors of all ages.
• Educational value: Museums and shrines should provide educational resources and programs that promote understanding and appreciation of Philippine history and culture.
Promoting museums and historical shrines can be achieved through:
• Investing in infrastructure and resources: This includes funding for maintenance, restoration, and the acquisition of new artifacts and exhibits.
• Developing innovative and engaging exhibits: This can involve interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and educational programs that cater to diverse audiences.
• Promoting tourism and cultural exchange: Encouraging visitors to explore museums and historical shrines can foster a sense of national pride and cultural understanding.
• Collaborating with local communities: Engaging communities in the preservation and promotion of their local heritage can enhance the value and impact of museums and shrines.
A Diverse Landscape of Museums and Shrines
The Philippines' museums and historical shrines are spread across the archipelago, reflecting the country's diverse regional identities and historical experiences. From the bustling metropolis of Manila to remote provinces, these institutions showcase a wide range of themes, including:
• National History: The National Museum of the Philippines in Manila is a prominent example, housing three main branches: The National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology, and the National Museum of Natural History. These institutions showcase the country's artistic heritage, cultural diversity, and natural wonders, offering a comprehensive overview of Philippine history and identity.
National Museum of the Philippines - Virtual Tour:
https://youtu.be/-FWb02nUHvA?si=3JakxF91Xh95qF1t
• Colonial Era: Museums like Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan transport visitors back to the Spanish colonial period, featuring meticulously restored heritage houses that offer a glimpse into the lives of Filipinos during that era.
Las Casa de Acuzar, Bagac Bataan - Virtual Tour:
https://youtu.be/wMmifcJnqO8?si=c8cUMBe9x6C6jl8Q&t=86
• Revolutionary Period: The Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite, commemorates the site of the Philippine Declaration of Independence in 1898. It houses artifacts and exhibits related to Emilio Aguinaldo, the country's first president, and the struggle for independence from Spanish rule.
Aguinaldo Shrine Kawit, Cavite - Virtual Tour:
https://youtu.be/nwadfOdfHxY?si=drCsw8c-BTLKsDg0&t=53
• World War II: The Palawan Special Battalion WW2 Memorial Museum in Puerto Princesa City honors the bravery of Filipino guerilla soldiers who fought against Japanese forces during the war. It displays war relics, including bombs, bayonets, and vehicles, offering a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during this pivotal period.
World War II: The Palawan Special Battalion WW2 Memorial Museum - Virtual Tour:
https://youtu.be/5dXh6HkP1GE?si=2XPbiGi9PdVcL5Ip
• Indigenous Cultures: The Bencab Museum in Baguio City showcases the art of Benedicto Cabrera, a National Artist of the Philippines, with a focus on the culture and traditions of the Cordillera region.
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