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SMU opens Indigenous Peoples and Museum Month 2024
The Indigenous Peoples and Museum Month 2024 officially commenced on October 1, showcasing a series of meaningful events designed to celebrate and preserve Indigenous culture. This year’s theme, “Championing Heritage: Empowering Communities for Cultural Identity Preservation,” highlights the critical role of community engagement in safeguarding cultural legacies.
A significant highlight of the opening ceremony was the blessing and soft launch of the Pansin-uuh’mu-an or the Indigenous Knowledge and Learning Hub. This innovative hub aims to become a vital resource for education, research, and the promotion of Indigenous traditions and knowledge, serving as a beacon of learning for students, faculty and staff, scholars, and community members.
The event attracted a diverse array of visitors from outside the Marian community, including local artists, educators, and administrators, as well as faculty and students of SMU. The blessing was led by Rev. Fr. Charlie Magne G. Buyayo, CICM, who offered heartfelt prayers for the hub’s success in fostering respect and understanding for Indigenous heritage.
Following the hub’s launch, attendees were invited to the Museo de Maria for the unveiling of the CICM and Bungkos Exhibits. Dr. Christopher Allen S. Marquez, Director of Community Engagement and Indigenous Peoples Studies Center (CEIPSC), welcomed guests and expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the exhibit’s opening. The exhibits feature a vibrant collection of cultural artifacts and artworks and CICM history, reflecting the deep ties between faith, community, and Indigenous identity.
Supportive messages were shared by distinguished guests, including Dr. Concepcion D. Absalon, Education Program Supervisor and Alternate Regional IPED Focal person of the Department of Education, Nueva Vizcaya; and Mrs. Marichelle O. Costales, Acting Provincial Tourism and Culture Officer of Nueva Vizcaya. The PTCO also temporarily donated a collection of 78 Vizcayana books and research materials to SMU for their proper care. Additionally, Mr. Ronie P. Caanawan, Provincial Officer of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, expressed his appreciation for the university’s efforts in highlighting Indigenous contributions.
The celebration continued with an Ethnicity Mass, presided over by Fr. Charlie, where the SMU community, including students, faculty, and staff, and student leaders from the different CICM school participating in the 2024 CICM Schools Student Leaders’ Convergence gathered to give thanks and pray for the continued protection and empowerment of Indigenous peoples. The mass was a solemn and colorful event, as participants, dressed in traditional attire, offered prayers and songs in honor of their heritage. Fr. Charlie, in his Homily, emphasized the importance of recognizing the dignity and rights of Indigenous communities, reminding everyone that our shared humanity is enriched by the diversity of our cultures and traditions.
As Indigenous Peoples and Museum Month 2024 unfolds, a series of engaging activities will be conducted throughout the month. Each event aims to celebrate the beauty and richness of Indigenous cultures while fostering greater awareness and support for Indigenous rights, ultimately empowering communities to preserve their cultural identities. This month promises to be a vibrant celebration of the resilience and strength of Indigenous heritage.
Written by:Heidee L. Lamoste, CEIPSC Staff
Photos by: Jenzon Baquiran and Avril Rombaoa, The Marian
