By Nycel Jane Dela
Every May, the Philippines celebrates National Heritage Month, a reminder that culture, traditions, and history are not simply memories from the past. They are living identities that continue to shape communities today. This 2026, the celebration carries the theme “Roots and Horizons: Our Shared Heritage, Our Collective Future.”
For Capiznons, this celebration should feel personal.
When people hear “Capiz,” many still think of seafood or old supernatural stories. But beyond those stereotypes lies a province rich in culture, artistry, traditions, and history. Heritage in Capiz is alive in the old churches of Panay and Mambusao, in the delicate capiz shells crafted by local artisans, in the traditional recipes passed down through generations, and even in the simple Hiligaynon words spoken every day.
As well as the celebrations that retell the story of Capiznon identity, from precolonial roots to present-day culture. Recent celebrations highlighted historical reenactments, local traditions, and cultural performances that remind younger generations where they came from.
However, heritage preservation today faces a quiet enemy: forgetfulness.
Many young people know foreign trends better than local history. Some ancestral homes slowly disappear. Traditional practices are replaced by modern convenience. Even local dialects and stories risk being ignored. Ironically, tourists sometimes appreciate our culture more than we do.
National Heritage Month should challenge communities to protect what makes them unique. Heritage is not limited to museums or old photographs. It includes local food, music, beliefs, festivals, craftsmanship, and shared memories. Once neglected, these are difficult to recover.
Capiz has so much to be proud of. The province continues to gain recognition for celebrating culture and tourism through events like Capiztahan and heritage-centered activities. But preserving heritage does not belong solely to the government or historians. Ordinary citizens also carry that responsibility.
After all, a community without memory slowly loses its identity.
As Capiznons, preserving our heritage means preserving a part of ourselves. Kag kon indi naton pag-alagaan ang aton kaugalingon nga kultura, sin-o pa ang magahimo sini?
