More in-depth heritage stories sought

To encourage more in-depth stories on Cebuano culture, history and heritage, the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (Rafi) held its first Heritage For Media forum at the Casa Gorordo Museum yesterday morning.

The forum kicked off a series of engagements by Rafi to promote more coverage and better stories on Cebuano history, culture and heritage.

Casa Gorordo Museum curator Florencio Moreno II told reporters that it was important for local media to cover more in-depth stories on Cebu’s culture and history since Cebuanos appreciate them if they can come into contact with them.

“We don’t remember a historical event if we don’t see a real reminder (like relics and artifacts),” he said.

Moreno said most published heritage articles lack depth since they were more focused on travel and tourism.

“There’s nothing wrong with that, but sometimes people look for something more in-depth in culture and heritage. … Sometimes it sacrifices the depth, the historical and cultural meaning,” he said.

Moreno said there are historical sites and items that are underappreciated due to lack of awareness and concern.

He cited the deteriorating watchtowers in Cebu that were used to spot the Moro pirates approaching the island in the Spanish era.

Moreno also said seemingly minor items like the puso or hanging rice sold by vendors also have cultural significance since they were eaten by Cebuanos during their travels.

“Rice didn’t grow well in Cebu because the island doesn’t have a lot of those marshlands. So they had to find ways to bring rice during their travels,” Moreno said.