Continuing the Legacy: Cultural Mapping Project Expands Across Moncada

The Cultural Mapping Training organized by Tarlac State University (TSU) in collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Moncada and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is making steady progress in its mission to document the cultural heritage of Moncada. Following the success of the initial two days, the project extended its efforts over the next three days, from August 8 to August 10, 2024, to further enrich the municipality’s cultural archive.

On August 8, 2024, the cultural mapping team focused on documenting Significant Institutions across Moncada. Schools like Sta. Lucia Elementary School, San Pedro National High School, and others were mapped, highlighting their roles in the community’s educational landscape and their contributions to Moncada’s cultural fabric. This mapping emphasized the importance of these institutions as cultural hubs within their respective communities.

The following day, August 9, 2024, attention shifted to Natural Heritage and Tangible Movable Heritage. The team documented Century-Old Trees in Tolega Norte, Tolega Sur, and South Central, recognizing them as living witnesses to the town’s history. Additionally, significant cultural items like the Apo Nazareno statue from the Valenton Family and the contributions of Dr. May Parsons in the field of medicine were meticulously recorded, adding depth to the cultural narrative of Moncada.

On August 10, 2024, the mapping initiative continued with a focus on Natural Heritage, Tangible Movable Heritage, and Intangible Heritage. The flora and fauna, including crops like Mais in Barangay Villa and Tobacco in Barangay Sta. Monica, were documented, along with animals such as Baka and Kalabaw in Barangay Ablang Sapang. The team also cataloged Tangible Immovable Heritage, like the Heritage House of Senator Jose Roy in Rizal, and Tangible Movable Heritage, such as traditional agricultural tools and household items in various barangays. Additionally, the intangible cultural heritage of Moncada, including the beloved Tupig Moncada from Sta. Lucia, was captured to ensure these traditions are preserved.

The success and efficiency of the Cultural Mapping Initiative in Moncada have been significantly bolstered by the task force assigned by Mayor Aquino. Their support has streamlined the mapping process for the TSU faculty and student mappers, enabling them to uncover and document more of the town’s significant cultural heritage. As the project progresses, the task force, along with the dedicated mapping team, will continue to explore and document Moncada's rich cultural assets, moving closer to the ultimate goal of compiling and publishing a definitive cultural heritage book for the municipality.

The Cultural Mapping Initiative in Moncada is far from over. The comprehensive documentation of the municipality’s rich cultural heritage will continue, ensuring that all aspects of Moncada's history, traditions, and cultural assets are preserved for future generations. The continued support of the local community and various stakeholders remains crucial as the project advances toward its completion.

Day 3 Cultural Mapping

Day 4 Cultural Mapping

Day 5 Cultural Mapping