In keeping with its vision of becoming a globally recognized university that upholds excellence amidst its rich cultural heritage, Ifugao State University (IFSU) launched its activity dubbed "Tanud di Tinanudan (A Gift to the Generations): A Celebration of Resilience and Continuity of the Ifugao Heritage" on November 6, 2023.

Spearheaded by the International Innovation Center for Indigenous Studies of the Research and Development Center for the Ifugao Rice Terraces as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (R & D Center for IRT-GIAHS), the event features a comprehensive lineup of activities centered on Harnessing Technology for Heritage Conservation; Digital Safeguarding of Heritage; and Empowering Women in Heritage Conservation.

This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11, 5, and 10, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage, promoting gender equality, and reducing inequalities.

Dr. Eva Marie Codamon-Dugyon, IFSU University President, affirmed that the activity series exemplifies IFSU's steadfast commitment to safeguarding and promoting Ifugao's heritage. By engaging students and the community in diverse activities, the University is ensuring the intergenerational transmission of Ifugao's rich traditions and knowledge.

Encouraging Youth Participation in Heritage Conservation

The first event in the lineup was the Heritage Weaving and Fashion Design Lecture-Workshop, where nine (9) participants from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), College of Agriculture and Sustainable Development (CASD), College of Health Sciences (CHS), and College of Education (COE) attended.

This activity aimed to encourage youth participation in heritage conservation efforts while capacitating them with possible livelihood activities in the future.

Ifugao Satoyama Meister Training Program alumna and Ifugao weaver Ms. Stephanie S. Ayahao shared her research titled "Inabol: The Weaving Culture of Ifugao." Ms. Ayahao's presentation delved into the significance of Inabol weaving in safeguarding Ifugao's heritage and preserving the essence of its culture. She explained the diverse applications of weaving materials and demonstrated of the fundamental weaving techniques.

The students were taught how to wind the threads (mun-pudun) and participated in the warping process. They were also given the opportunity to weave (mun-abol) as part of the return-demonstration. The participants designed and crafted their own weaves (inabol).

Capturing Indigenous Knowledge through Photography and Videography

On November 22-23, a lecture-workshop on photography and videography dubbed "Indigenous Knowledge Capture" will be held for student-participants. Jericho S. Torres and Gretton John G. Lumauig of the Management Information System Section of the University will serve as resource speakers.

This workshop aims to equip students with the skills to capture and document the rich indigenous knowledge and traditions of Ifugao. Students shall learn how to use photography and videography to create compelling narratives that highlight the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

Celebrating Heritage through Contests

To further encourage creativity and engagement among students, contests are opened for heritage mobile photography, 1-minute video on heritage (Category A), 5-minute video on heritage (Category B), and poetry writing.

These contests provide students with a platform to showcase their talents and perspectives on Ifugao heritage.

Creative Expressions of Ifugao Heritage to be Unveiled at Closing Ceremonies

A Heritage Exhibit will be held to showcase the outputs from the Heritage Weaving and Fashion Design Lecture-Workshop, Indigenous Knowledge Capture, Poetry Writing, among others. The winning entries shall be recognized during the Closing Ceremonies at the Heritage Convention Center on December 15, 2023.