Why 2 Icons of Philippine Cultural Heritage are Under Threat and What We can Do to Save Them

As the world becomes increasingly modernized, the importance of preserving cultural heritage grows ever more vital. The Philippines, known for its rich and diverse culture, is facing a challenge to preserve two of its most iconic expressions of cultural heritage: the Bahay Kubo and the Ifugao Rice Terraces. These two magnificent cultural artifacts, deeply embedded in the history and way of life of Filipinos, are now under threat due to several reasons.

The Bahay Kubo, a traditional Filipino house that features a steep pitched roof, bamboo walls, and floor made of earthen material, is in danger due to several factors. One of the main reasons is the lack of preservation efforts. With the influx of modern housing and apartment complexes, the traditional Bahay Kubo is becoming less common. As a result, fewer young Filipinos are now familiar with the unique architecture and cultural significance of the Bahay Kubo.

Moreover, natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and fires have also contributed to the gradual disappearance of the Bahay Kubo. In recent years, the country has experienced frequent natural disasters that have further worsened the situation. It is high time to take concerted efforts to preserve the Bahay Kubo, which is a representation of our identity as a people.

Similarly, the Ifugao Rice Terraces are also at risk of disappearing. These terraces amaze tourists with their grandeur and intricate engineering. The Ifugao Rice Terraces are one of the world’s most awe-inspiring cultural landscapes and have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, they are now under threat due to many factors that include decreasing rice yields, urbanization, and the lack of modernization.

As younger generations leave their homes in search of better opportunities in urban areas, preserving the Ifugao Rice Terraces’ traditional practices is no longer the top priority. Many farmers have abandoned the ancient terraces and converted them into subdivisions and commercial complexes, thereby threatening the Ifugao Rice Terraces’ existence.

The need to act is urgent. We must start taking necessary measures to save the Bahay Kubo and the Ifugao Rice Terraces. This cultural treasure trove is the legacy left to us by our ancestors, and the responsibility of preserving and passing these on to the next generation lies with us. The government must allocate more resources towards these crucial efforts.

Furthermore, cultural organizations and advocacy groups must participate actively in preserving the Bahay Kubo and the Ifugao Rice Terraces. Collaborating with local schools to include these monuments in the curriculum can help raise awareness and instill a sense of cultural pride in the younger generation, who are increasingly adopting a westernized lifestyle and endangering the survival of these cultural artifacts.

In conclusion, the Bahay Kubo and the Ifugao Rice Terraces are under threat, and we must take immediate measures to preserve them. Our cultural heritage as Filipinos is a significant part of our identity and who we are, and preserving these iconic expressions of our culture is vital to preserving our national identity. We must come together at all levels, from the government to the grassroots, to save and protect these precious cultural heritage sites.

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