1

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This research will not be made possible without the unending care and guidance

of our parents, teachers, family, and friends. This is to extend our fullest gratitude to

those who helped us. Our families, thank you for giving us your utmost support. To our

friends who aided us in time of need, thank you. To our teachers who supplied us with

good sense. Thank you! We also would like to dedicate our acknowledgement of

gratitude to the following advisors and personnel; First and foremost we would like to

thank our Practical Research II advisor, Raymund Briones, for his teachings and words of

encouragement. We would also like to thank, Ms. Liezl L. Eva, for her helpful counsels.

She was there to help us from revising to conclusion. To Mr. Ruel Frago, for his careful

review of our paper, his intelligence and words of encouragement, thank you. We also

would like to express our appreciation to the School Principal, Mrs. Marilyn Divina,

thank you for granting our desire to conduct our survey in different locations within

Sorsogon Province. And lastly, to the Almighty God, we thank you for showering us

Your mercy and providing us the strength we need. Everything we do is for Your greater

glory. We are forever grateful.

Godspeed!
 2

ABSTRACT

The study conducted by the researchers about the extent of implementation of the

extent of implementation of dilg memorandum circular no. 2017-133 on the creation of

local culture and arts: basis of identifying programs in preserving local Cultural heritage

was executed in order for the researchers to find out if the implementation of the said

Memorandum Circular is being observed throughout the two districts of Sorsogon. The

researchers had to figure out if Cultural Heritage is being preserved correctly and

accordingly to the Memorandum that DILG presented. The researches thought of Cultural

Heritage as a very influential medium for residents and upcoming generations to learn

more about the culture within their province. Through estimating the number of

respondents from the two districts of Sorsogon, the researchers were able to fabricate

steps in collecting data regarding the different understanding or rating in regards to how

they are aware of such as the one at hand. A month was spent by the researchers in order

to get the results they have now. The Memorandum Circular is, indeed, being observed

by the two districts, although each indicator is evident in different levels. The researchers

also concluded that.

 3

CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING

Introduction

Cultural heritage is the legacy of physical artifacts and intangible element of a

group or society that are inherited from past generations, maintained in the present and
bestowed for the benefit of future generations. Cultural heritage includes tangible culture
(such as buildings, monuments, landscapes, books, works of art, and artifacts). It also
includes intangible culture traditions or living expressions inherited from our ancestors
and passed on to our descendants, such as oral traditions, performing arts, social
practices, rituals, festival events and many more. Whatever shape they take, these things
form part of a heritage, and this heritage requires vital effort on one’s part in order to
safeguard it. It creates a certain emotion within a person, or because it makes a person
feel as though they belong to something; a country, a tradition, a way of life.

There had been many laws created all around the world regarding the
preservation of their respective cultural heritages. An example of these laws is the
“Protect and Preserve International Cultural Property Act” of the United States of
America. (Authenticated U.S. Government Information, 2016). It states in the Act that
the Congress of the President should establish an interagency coordination committee to
“coordinate the efforts of the executive branch to protect and preserve international
cultural property at risk from political instability, armed conflict, or natural or other
disasters.” In other words, there should be an establishment that handles the protection
and preservation of international cultural heritages.

Another law from Germany has been enacted only three years prior to this
research. The Cultural Property Act (European Parliament and of the Council, 2016)
governs; “the protection of national cultural property against removal, the import export
of cultural property, the placing on the market of cultural property, the return of
unlawfully exported and/or imported cultural property and the legally binding
commitment to return cultural property in international lending.”
 4

Mongolia implemented a law five years prior to the conduction of this research
called, “Law on the Protection of Cultural Heritage” (Law of Mongolia, 2014) wherein it
states how the objective of the law is to regulate relations concerning the “search,
registration, research, classification, evaluation, preservation, protection, restoration,
recreation, transmission, inheritance, ownership, possession, use and promotion” of
cultural heritage. The legislation concerning the protection of cultural heritage consists
of the Constitution of Mongolia, the Law on Special Protected Areas, the Law on
Culture, and other laws were issued upon this law.

The “Law on the Return of Unlawfully Removed Objects of Cultural Heritage”

implemented by the Republic of Slovenia (2014) upon their country has been thoroughly
successful over the past few years. Many activities has been done in order to satisfy the
law issued. The Ministry of Culture notifies other authorities and organizations in the
Republic of Slovenia anything that is related to the protection and search of the objects of
cultural heritage. In the Republic of the Philippines, Republic Act No. 10066, or better
known as the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009 of the 1987 Constitution, declares
that the State will foster the preservation of cultural heritage. It aims to protect, reserve,
conserve and promote the nation’s cultural heritage to maintain Filipino identity
(Congress of the Philippines, 2009). The cultural property to be identified are National
cultural treasures, important cultural property, world heritage sites, national historical
shrines, monuments and landmarks. The implementation of this law is still unclear
whether or not it is successful or unsuccessful due to lack of articles regarding the law.
Most cities in the country deem the law to be poorly implemented while others state
otherwise.

Republic Act No. 4846 is also an act that provides protection and preservation
of Philippine cultural properties. The act is also known are the Cultural Properties
Preservation Act. Philippines is known for many cultural landmarks and heritages and
this is why the government felt the need to incorporate this Republic Act. Cultural
heritages give the society an identity. It brings life to the culture and a glimpse in the
past. The heritage that the society receives is a reflection of their ancestors—the
generation before them. This is why there is a need to conduct this research, to be able to
 5

figure out if the government is actually implementing the laws they have created in order
to preserve the cultural heritage within a society.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government issued Memorandum

Circular No. 2017-133 last September 29, 2017; only two years prior to this study. The
Memorandum is a revision for the Memorandum Circular No. 2002-81: Creation of Local
Culture and Arts Councils. The thrust of the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022 and
the implementation of National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, Republic Act No. 10066,
the National Commission of Culture and The Arts initiated the revision of Memorandum
Circular No. 2002-81 to incorporate the need for an expanded composition and functions
of the Local Culture and Arts Council. According to the DILG, the purpose of the
Memorandum Circular is to “enjoin all provinces, cities and municipalities to legislate
for the establishment of a Local Culture and the Arts Council, implement related projects
and/or strengthen existing ones thereafter.” (DILG, 2017)

This Memorandum Circular ensures the establishment of of a local council whose

purpose is the promotion of culture and the arts, coordinate with government agencies
and non-governmental organization and appropriate funds for the support and
development of said council. Consistent with the above-stated purpose is the protection,
preservation, and promotion of cultural heritage and the ethnicity of local communities.
In line with this, the DILG-OSEC special provisions under Republic Act No. 10924 or
the General Appropriations Act of 2017 mandated DILG to ensure the establishment of
the local council. To strengthen the LGU as a cultural institution, its obligations
prescribed in the National Cultural Heritage Act of 1009 are hereby rationalized as one of
the functions of the Local Culture and Arts Council. (DILG, 2017)

The objectives of the Memorandum are quite clearly stated as the following; The
council must prepare an annual plan on culture, arts and cultural heritage with the
Philippine Development Plan for Culture and the Arts, to be included in the local
development plan; the council must create programs and recommendations to promote,
sustain and develop local cultural and artistic talents, cultural industries and traditional art
as well as contemporary arts and crafts; the council must coordinate with cultural
 6

agencies for the conservation of national cultural properties found in the LGU; the
council must conduct and facilitate cultural events such as festivals, competitions,
lectures, seminars, and symposiums; and lastly, the council must identify other activities
fitting to the promotions of local cultural heritages and arts.

This research aims to measure the amount of programs which are being
implemented in the present time in order to preserve cultural heritage within Sorsogon
City. As for Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 of DILG which is the basis in
identifying the programs which are created, its purpose is to enjoin all provinces, cities
and municipalities to legislate for the establishment of a Local Culture and the Arts
Council, implement related projects and/or strengthen existing ones thereafter. (DILG,
2017) The researchers believe that learning one’s own culture and history produces and
enhances respect to one’s origin and identity, also creates the present and other culture
based on other traditions.

The importance of this study is to identify the extent of implementation the DILG
is enforcing the functions written under the DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133.
This is relevant in order to know what steps the government should further take in
preserving this country’s cultural heritage. There is a heritage law and a historical
commission.

The country’s culture and heritage reflects the values and identity of the people in
the past who have paved the way. This is why the strides that have been made in the past
should not be left behind as the nation takes steps forward. Progress is not just reflected
by building new structures, but repurposing old ones keeps the past relevant and also
assures a sense of national pride for the future. The purpose of the memorandum is to
give the treasures left behind by those who came before a new lease of life. This study
measures the degree of implementation of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133
which aims to protect and promote local cultural heritage and arts.

Protection of cultural heritage is important in light of the fact that it gives a sense
of personality and coherence in a fast changing world for future generations. This
essentially speaks of the previous history and culture of a country. One of the cultural
 7

heritage covered by this memorandum is heritage buildings. They are exposed to process
of degradation resulting to these buildings being dilapidated and fail to fulfill the purpose
for which they were built. Therefore, these buildings need an important tool to protect
them. Conservation guidelines of heritage buildings such as the DILG Memorandum
Circular No. 2017-133 are one of the proposed resolutions for protecting heritage
buildings. However, these are useless if not implemented and monitored; which is why
this study aims to identify its extent of implementation.

Conservation of cultural heritage plays a big role in protecting a country’s legacy.

Cultural heritage reflects and identifies one country. It is through this that people see their
country as authentic and different. Cultural heritage take form in buildings, monuments,
books, works of art, artifacts, folklore, traditions, language, and naturally formed
landscapes. It is the role of every Filipinos to give importance to these cultural heritage
that are witness to the sacrifices made by their ancestors to save the future from doom.
These buildings, works of art, artifacts and books are the only things that link the present
to the past. And if these edifices are not protected and preserved, they will lose the battle
with time.

In this fast changing world, these buildings represent what had been, and for
people to fully understand how things ended up the way it did, people must see these
physical evidences with their own naked eyes. But, as the country industrialize, only few
of these structures survived. Some are demolished, some are abandoned, and few are
converted to function different purpose. The nation focus so much in developing and
coping up with other countries in terms of technology, that the public forget the things the
land already have.

Actions are taken nonetheless, like the issue of different memorandums in the
hopes of igniting the enthusiasm of the people in preserving cultural heritage. With these
memorandums the survival of these cultural heritage stand a chance. However, the
people and the government need to work in harmony in achieving the same goal, to
safeguard the cultural heritage.
 8

Culture shapes a person’s way of life and includes the art, morals, law, values,
sentiments and other characteristics that shapes a person as a member of society (Bicol
Regional Development Plan, 2017-2022, p. 87). By the means of preserving one’s
culture, society can benefit in such a way that the culture would be able to be learned by
future generations. It is culture that varies with existence within different communities.
Diverse culture is what gives a society meaning. Disappointing as it may seem, but the
lack of cultural heritage in the Bicol Region is quite prominent. Which is why it is
important to preserve the ones that are currently existing. This idea has been
acknowledged by the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022 and by the National
Cultural Heritage Act of 2009 (R.A. 10066).

The Legislative Agenda to bring awareness to Philippine Culture and Values of

the Philippine Development Plan (PDP, 2017, Ch. 7) brings the establishment of Local
Culture and Arts Councils quite eminent.. Likewise, the 2017 DILG Seal of Good Local
Governance (MC 2017-53, dated March 22, 2017) requires any two of the following
under Essential Ares, Tourism, Culture and the Arts, Cultural Heritage Promotion and
Conservation; Presence of a Council for the promotion of culture and the arts; Budget
appropriated for the conservation and preservation of cultural property; Availability of
cultural property inventory in the Local Government Unit. Moreover, in Article V,
Section 14B of Republic Act 10066 declares that, “Local government units, through their
cultural offices, shall likewise maintain an inventory of cultural property under its
jurisdiction and shall furnish the Commission a copy of the same.” There are many
programs to be and are currently being conducted. One of these programs are the Bicol
Regional Development Plan wherein they will prioritize safeguarding and enshrining
cultural heritage, achieve equity and inclusion in access to cultural resources and
services, and lastly, sustaining and enhancing cultural assets to foster creativity and
innovation for socio-economic growth. If the cultural heritage of our Region will
continue to be ignored, the thread that binds together the social fabric of our society
would possibly create a hindrance within our community (National Economic and
Development Authority, 2017).
 9

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to measure the level of implementation of the DILG
Memorandum Circular No. 2017- 133 in different districts. Specifically, it sought to
answer the following questions:

1. What is the profile of select Local Government Unit among the number of:
a) population,
b) topographic location, and;
c) cultural landmarks?
2. What is the extent of implementation of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-
133 of select Local Government Units in the aspect of:
a) creation of committee
b) creation of programs, and;
c) placement of personnel?

3. Is there a significant difference on the extent of implementation of DILG

Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 of Local Government Units on First and
Second District of Sorsogon Province?

4. What are the challenges encountered by select Local Government Units in the
implementation of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133?

Assumptions

The researchers shall present assumptions that they have made regarding the
questions being asked in their Statement of the Problem. Here are the assumptions,
wherein tentative answers will be presented.

1. The Profile of select Local Government Units among the number of cultural
landmarks and cultural programs vary.
2. The extent of implementation of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 is
partially implemented upon the two districts.
3. There were identified problems encountered by the Local Government Units in
the implementation of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133.
 10

Hypothesis

In order to determine whether or not there is a significant difference between the two
districts, the researchers will formulate one null hypothesis (H n). The null hypothesis will
state that there will be no significant difference on the extent of implementation of the
DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 between the first and second district of
Sorsogon.

Scope and Delimitation

The study will cover select Local Government Units in the first and second
districts; their activities regarding the preservation of cultural heritage, social image and
the significant difference. It will focus on tangible cultural heritage only. The study will
cover the Local Government Units of the municipalities under the first district namely,
Sorsogon, Casiguran, and, Juban; and those under the second district which are, Gubat,
Prieto Diaz, and Barcelona. In the first and second districts; their activities regarding the
preservation of cultural heritage, social image and the significant difference. This also
includes statistical data from the residents of both districts, people affected by the
programs and the perception of residents toward the implementation of the DILG
Memorandum Circular No. 20 17- 133.

In regards of the extent of implementation, the mandates of this memorandum in

which the research focuses on are as follows: as per DILG Memorandum Circular No.
2002-81 or The Creation of Local Culture and the Arts Council, as per Republic Act No.
10066 or the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, and as per Republic Act No. 7355
or The Gawad ng Manlilikha ng Bayan act. This also includes statistical data from the
residents of both districts, people affected by the programs and the perception of residents
toward the implementation of the DILG Memorandum Circular No. 20 17- 133.

The study will last for about two months. The time duration can be extended if the
time for the interview is inconvenient for the interviewees.

Significance of the Study

 11

Local Government Units. The result of this study can help the government of
Sorsogon City identifying the actions still needed to be done in order to further advance
the preservation of the city's rich heritage. This can also serve as their guide since the
residents will make suggestions for future projects and/or programs promoting cultural
heritages.

Department of Interior and Local Government. Through this research, the

DILG will be able to be more aware upon the implementation of its own Memorandum
and can be the reason for changes within the department. This can also serve as their
guide to improve and add more programs, memorandums and projects in the near future
to promote cultural heritage.

Provincial Government of Sorsogon. The result of this research will bring

awareness upon the state of the cultural heritage within the two districts and may become
the reason for the future actions taken in favor of the protection and preservation of
cultural heritages.

National Commission of Culture and the Arts. The result of this research will
aid the NCCA upon implementing more policies, projects and events regarding the
preservation of one’s cultural heritage in order the protect the Filipino identity. Since the
NCCA’s main goal is to promote cultural heritage, this study will be able to help them
understand what the local residents think.

Policy Makers. This research can help policy makers learn what actions must be
taken and what policies must be performed within the society in order to develop and
promote cultural heritage. Policy makers are the ones who implement laws and acts.
Through this research, these policy makers will be able to identify what action must be
done in order to organize and revise new laws and policies to sustain our cultural
heritage.

Sorsoganons. The answers this research will provide will be useful for the people
of Sorsogon City. Through this, people would grow knowledgeable and aware of the
activities or organizations that are concerned with the preservation of the city's heritage.
Since the Sorsoganons are the ones who are supposed to keep the cultural heritages, they
should become more aware of the state of their heritage and the actions that must be done
 12

in order for them to help with preservation. Through this research, more Sorsoganons will
be able to figure out what can be done and what should be done and participate in the
programs to be implemented by the policy makers.

Students. This researchers will help students become more aware and spread
awareness upon the implementation of the Memorandum Circular 2017-133 implemented
by the Department of Interior and Local Government. Students are the ones who are
supposed to learn about cultural heritage, and through this research, they will become
more aware of how their society handles the cultural heritages being passed down from
generation to generation. Future researchers among these students can continue this
research and spread more awareness.

Researchers. The study can improve the researchers background about the
history of the city. This research can be a medium for the researchers in acquiring more
information and by this, the researchers will be able to distinguish the degree of
execution by the government with regards to the DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-
133.

Definition of Terms

Extent of Implementation. The level or degree of implementation of one law or

policy upon a community/country. This can be measured through the Likert Scale, the
type of rating scale used to measure attitudes or opinions wherein the respondents will be
asked whether or not a certain policy is strictly or partially implemented.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). An executive

department of the Philippine government responsible for promoting peace and order,
ensuring public safety and strengthening local government capability aimed towards the
effective delivery of basic services to the citizenry. The department is currently led by
the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government, nominated by the President of the
Philippines and confirmed by the Commission on Appointments.

National Commission of Culture and the Arts. The official Government

Agency for culture in the Republic of the Philippines. It is the policy making,
 13

coordination and grants giving Agency for the preservation, search, development and
promotion of Philippine arts and culture It is the overall policy making body,
coordinating, and grants giving agency for the preservation, development and promotion
of Philippine arts and culture; an executing agency for the policies it formulates; and task
to administering the National Endowment Fund for Culture and the Arts (NEFCA) --
fund exclusively for the implementation of culture and arts programs and projects.

DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133. The DILG issued Memorandum

Circular 2017-133, which revises Memorandum Circular No. 2002-81, to enjoin all
provinces, cities and municipalities to legislate for the Creation of Local Culture and Arts
Councils. The rationale is to establish offices for culture and the arts in the Local
Government Units (LGUs), with a mandate to protect and promote local cultural heritage
and arts.

Program. A brief, usually printed, outline of the order to be followed (Merriam

Webster Dictionary, 1828). It is a set of related measures or activities with a particular
long-term aim. In this study, programs are the plans or systematic agendas wherein a
certain law shall take effect in order to achieve a specific set of goals.

Cultural Heritage. An expression of the ways of living developed by a

community and passed on from generation to generation, including customs, practices,
places, objects, artistic expressions and values. (ICOMOS, 2002). It is also the legacy of
physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society that is inherited from past
generations. It includes tangible culture (such as buildings, monuments, landscapes,
books, works of art, and artifacts), intangible culture (such as folklore, traditions,
language, and knowledge), and natural heritage (including culturally significant
landscapes, and biodiversity).

Cultural Preservation. The act of using deliberate and well-designed

methodologies to maintain cultural heritage from the past for the benefit of the present
and future generations. It include documenting and studying languages; preserving and
restoring historic relics significant to a culture or heritage; and encouraging the
preservation and use of indigenous or tribal languages and rituals.
 14

Implementation. The process of putting a decision or plan into effect; execution.

An act or instance of implementing something. (Merriam Webster Dictionary, 1828).

Local Government Unit (LGU). An institutional units whose fiscal, legislative

and executive authority extends over the smallest geographical areas distinguished for
administrative and political purposes. 

Tourism. The guidance or management of tourists (Merriam Webster

Dictionary, 1828). The commercial organization and operation of vacations and visits to
places of interest. Tourism is travel for pleasure or business; also the theory and practice
of touring, the business of attracting, accommodating, and entertaining tourists, and the
business of operating tours. Tourism may be international, or within the traveler's
country.
 15

CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURES AND STUDIES

The researchers will present different literatures and studies that are deemed
significant. These are both local and foreign to further understand the study. Different
ideas from various authors and researchers are used and are related to the current study.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government issued Memorandum

Circular No. 2017-133 last September 29, 2017; only two years prior to this study. The
Memorandum is a revision for the Memorandum Circular No. 2002-81: Creation of Local
Culture and Arts Councils. The thrust of the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022 and
the implementation of National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, Republic Act No. 10066,
the National Commission of Culture and The Arts initiated the revision of Memorandum
Circular No. 2002-81 to incorporate the need for an expanded composition and functions
of the Local Culture and Arts Council. According to the DILG, the purpose of the
Memorandum Circular is to “enjoin all provinces, cities and municipalities to legislate for
the establishment of a Local Culture and the Arts Council, implement related projects
and/or strengthen existing ones thereafter.” (DILG, 2017)

This Memorandum Circular ensures the establishment of of a local council whose

purpose is the promotion of culture and the arts, coordinate with government agencies
and non-governmental organization and appropriate funds for the support and
development of said council. Consistent with the above-stated purpose is the protection,
preservation, and promotion of cultural heritage and the ethnicity of local communities.
In line with this, the DILG-OSEC special provisions under Republic Act No. 10924 or
the General Appropriations Act of 2017 mandated DILG to ensure the establishment of
the local council. To strengthen the LGU as a cultural institution, its obligations
prescribed in the National Cultural Heritage Act of 1009 are hereby rationalized as one of
the functions of the Local Culture and Arts Council. (DILG, 2017)

The scope of the Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 includes all Provincial
Governors, City and Municipal Mayors, DILG Regional Directors, the Regional
 16

Governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindano, and all other concerned are
covered by the Memorandum Circular. Chair Members includes the Local Chief
Executive, Chairperson or Sangguniang Committee on Culture and the Arts, Local
Cultural Officer or equivalent, Local Planning and Development Officer, Local
Information Officer, Local Budget Officer, Representatives from the Department of
Education; Commission on Higher Education; Technical Education and Skills
Development Authority; Philippine Information Agency; Local Tourism Council; Local
Historical/Heritage Society (if need be); Local Museums; Local Artists Groups; Business
Sector or Chamber of Commerce; Professional Sector; Academe; Youth Sector; each
from Indigenous People and Cultural Communities present in the area; and National
Commission of Culture and the Arts.

The objectives of the Memorandum are quite clearly stated as the following; The
council must prepare an annual plan on culture, arts and cultural heritage with the
Philippine Development Plan for Culture and the Arts, to be included in the local
development plan; the council must create programs and recommendations to promote,
sustain and develop local cultural and artistic talents, cultural industries and traditional art
as well as contemporary arts and crafts; the council must coordinate with cultural
agencies for the conservation of national cultural properties found in the LGU; the
council must conduct and facilitate cultural events such as festivals, competitions,
lectures, seminars, and symposiums; and lastly, the council must identify other activities
fitting to the promotions of local cultural heritages and arts.

Related Studies

Cultural heritage is the key into preserving the past in order to create a much more
sustainable future for the society. The European culture is quite irreplaceable for its
citizens. It is said that cultural heritage serves as a link to and a better understanding of
the past, and promotes a new sense in sociological identity to many individuals
(European Union, 2012). Due to this fact, it can be deduced that the existence of cultural
heritage should be taken into consideration when acknowledging when and where a
certain group of human beings came from.
 17

The past will always result into the present, and keeping track of the heritages
from the past will support the next generations in understanding where and what they
came from. It is very crucial to never let these heritages fade away because it is the true
essence of a cultural society.

The Operational Guidelines of Convention UNESCO World Heritage is

responsible for the protection of cultural heritage and landscapes internationally. This
means that every country with aspects of cultural heritage can be helped with the process
of preserving one’s cultural identity. An individual’s cultural identity can be defined
through the heritages they have, and through preserving these, may it be objects or
intangible heritages such as folksongs or poetry; it can definitely contribute to the society.

Based on the study of Jones and Stensek (2011), The Mediterranean Landscape
Charter aimed to preserve cultural heritage, meeting threats that uncontrollable
developments pose for historical and ecological landscape values. In this study, different
organizations will be identified. Organizations that are focused in combating problems
that could cause the downfall of the country’s cultural heritage.

Masini & Soldivieri, (2017) stated that management and protection of these
cultural heritages are the key in preserving one’s culture and social development, but still,
cultural heritage is continuously under pressure because of its inherent fragility and its
exposure to natural risks.

The study cited states that in order to preserve these cultural heritage,
management and protection is required. Also, these cultural heritages face great danger
due to natural risks. It is related to the current study because it says that right efforts
towards preserving these cultural heritages could secure its survival.

Cultural heritage is quite fragile as it is important, which makes it difficult to

preserve. Difficulty does not mean impossible, as it has been practiced for many decades
now, contributing to the social and cultural identity of different places. This issue is
timely because many factors can threaten the preservation of cultural heritages (Murgante
& Danese, 2011).
 18

Relating this to the current study, it is hard to preserve cultural heritage but it is
feasible. It has been done for generations already. It contributes to a society’s uniqueness.

Some other cultural heritages such as landscapes derive from the natural and
human acts; so all these elements are crucial in fostering cultural identity (Europe, 2009).
In decades since, the traces of the past are still considered to be elements that are isolated,
a complex whole of findings, symbols of identities that belong to people who still live in
specific places of culture (Brogiolo, 2014).

The sustainability of a society can be based off of its resources and culture.
Historical events that happened to a certain place will always be important to be learned
by future generations. Preserving these cultural heritages will not only benefit current
living beings, but will also serve as a great legacy to leave behind for the next generation
and the generation after that. Conserving the past will help in contributing to a
sustainable future (Barthel-Bouchier 2016).

Every age in the course of history experiences change to a greater or lesser extent.
There is an explicit relationship between cultural heritage and the impact of these
changes, whether it can be sociological, demographical, technological or cultural; it all
comes down to the implementation of preserving one’s heritages. Furthermore, it is quite
evident that cultural heritage has a particularly important role to play (Taylor, 2016).

Cultural heritage has an enormous potential impact in terms of its contribution to

improve the lives of people in different societies. Forbes (2016) has argued that cultural
heritages mean that, “Understanding the past, assisting territorial cohesion, driving
economic growth, opening up employments in education and in artistic careers.”

Gabriel, Claudio, and Bolisay (2017) studied how the alternative source of
income and community tourism may strengthen and sustain the multi-stakeholder
collaboration existing in one of the tourist destinations in need of preservation in Nueva
Ecija. This study focused on the relationship between community effort and businesses in
collaboration to save a cultural heritage. Compared to the researchers’ study, the efforts
being investigated in terms of effectiveness will be those of the government’s.
 19

The spectrum of society is wide. A wider society would need much more cultural
heritage in order to create a bridge between the current generations to the past and future
ones. The central purpose of cultural heritage to the society is to be able to educate and
show how the past has shaped our future.

Related Literature

Every age in the course of history experiences change to a greater or lesser extent.
During the twenty-first century, it hardly seems to be an exaggerated expression to say
that the world is facing an immense amount of change that affects every part of society,
including areas in which cultural heritages are included (Forbes, Borowiecki & Fresa,
2016). Along these changes, there are laws existing that aims to preserve its opposite, the
past.

This study will cover the preservation of the markers of this past in the form of
local cultural heritage. There is an explicit relationship between cultural heritage and the
impact of these changes, whether it can be sociological, demographical, technological or
cultural; it all comes down to the implementation of preserving one’s heritages.
Furthermore, it is quite evident that cultural heritage has a particularly important role to
play (Taylor, 2016).

Cultural heritage has an enormous potential impact in terms of its contribution to

improve the lives of people in different societies. Forbes (2016) has argued that cultural
heritages mean that, “Understanding the past, assisting territorial cohesion, driving
economic growth, opening up employments in education and in artistic careers.”

Aas, Ladkin & Fletcher, (2004) examined the relationship between the
collaboration between roles in management, heritage tourism development, as well as its
interdependence with heritage conservation and tourism. It examined five aspects which
are the channels of communication between heritage and tourism groups, the profitability
of conserving and managing heritage, involvement of the local community in decision-
making, involving the local community in activities promoting tourism; and examining
its extent.
 20

There are many key factors that come into play in heritage conservation. The
focus of this study is within the efforts of the local government under the mandate of the
Department of Interior and Local Government.

The spectrum of society is wide. A wider society would need much more cultural
heritage in order to create a bridge between the current generations to the past and future
ones. The central purpose of cultural heritage to the society is to be able to educate and
show how the past has shaped our future.

Asian people have experienced the sufferings from colonial power, suppression of
cultural heritage and therefore understands how important it is to restore cultural heritage,
valuable sources of sustainable development (Lee, 2017).

Synthesis of the State of the Art

Researchers on Related Literature present that the preservation of cultural

heritages create a big impact on their future. Based from the collected studies and
literature, it can be concluded that the conservation of cultural heritage is the key on
creating a much more sustainable future. This kind of implementation is an investment
made by the government in order for the society to have a record of the past in order to
shape the future, a gap is discerning that no study embarked upon the same research that
the study is all about.

Moreover, there were studies which linked cultural heritages to the identity of the
people belonging to where these are from. This implies that protecting these will be a
means of preserving culture itself. These studies showed the difficulty of preserving
cultural heritage in terms of factors that threatens its current state, and the efforts of the
community and businesses in helping to preserve these cultural heritages. The cited
related literature and studies cited are relevant to the present study because it will guide
the researchers in constructing the research gap.

Gap Bridged

The related literature and studies focused on how important the preservation of
cultural heritage is. It also focused on the lack of cultural heritage not only in Southeast
 21

Asia, but in different continents such as Europe. While there were studies that covered
the preservation of cultural heritage, most of these studies focused on business and
tourism and not on government efforts. All studies have been made for the researchers to
have a general idea regarding the implementation of laws regarding the conservation of
these cultural heritages from the contents of related literature and related studies. The
studies done locally discussed mostly restoration of cultural heritages, and there were
local literature taken from different books written on behalf of the historical foundations
of different cultural heritage in the city.
 22

Theoretical Framework
Art galleries, physical structures, buildings, technological devices; they represent
and reflect the society we live in. In relation to heritage, it is viewed as a way to produce
knowledge about the past, to suppress or manifest a way to constitute power. This theory
explains how cultural heritage is used to acknowledge everything related to everything.
In this study, the Heritage Theory is one of the best supporting evidences on why or why
not our society must continue preserving culturally heritage.
It is a known fact among the heritage theorists that cultural heritage is what
affects the certain self-identity of human beings within a society. It influences a person’s
behavior, social identity, philosophy, belief systems, and many more. Relating it to the
current study, it is relevant because there is a need to identify whether these cultural
heritage still influences people. And to what extent do these people are willing to take to
preserve their society’s cultural heritage.
Cultural Theory has been used to further understand the dynamics of culture. It
involved the arguments about the relationship of culture to nature, culture and society,
and the connection of cultural tradition and cultural difference and diversity. The works
of Raymond Williams and E.P. Thompson made significant roles in the development of
post-war British cultural theory. William emphasized culture as a 'whole way of life'
while Thompson viewed culture as a way in which groups 'handle' raw material of social
and material existence. Both studied the lived dimension of culture and its active process
of shaping meaningful ways of life.
Today, cultural theory acknowledge that everything from the simplest objects like
a pen or a chair to complex network objects such as shopping malls, computers or the
subway systems, also function as forms of communication because they assist in
understanding and learning about human life (von Unge, 2008). Thus, everyone in the
society has access to culture and are free to engage with it. In this theory, culture could be
read as a signifying system through which the social world was mapped.
The relationship of the theory to the current study is that the society could be
understood more accurately if one would view it through its culture. Tangible and
intangible culture have direct connection to society for it defines the society and it
produces more significant ways of life.
 23

Realist Theory of Law is concerned in the actual working of the law instead of its
traditional definitions. According to this theory, laws that are not implemented are just as
good as dead words, and these words only get life when fiercely implemented. Every law
there is must be effectively executed. And the government must see to it that the people
are well aware of these law.

In relation to the study, to be fully functional, the law must be put into action. It
is a must for the people who make the law to ensure its full implementation. In order to
preserve these cultural heritage, each memorandum and law must be fully enforced.

These theories will help in guiding the study, according to the Heritage Theory, it
is the cultural heritage that affects the identity of human beings in the society. Cultural
heritage plays a big role in the uniqueness of the society. In the Cultural Theory, culture
have active participation in forming meaningful ways of life. While in Realist Theory of
Law, every law must be executed properly.
 24

Cultural Theory

Cultural heritage plays a vital

role in shaping meaning in
people’s life

Realist Theory of Law Heritage Theory

In order to achieve a fully Cultural Heritage have direct

functional society, all law must impact to the identity of
be implemented properly individuals inside the society

Cultural Preservation Theory

The society requires an active

and effective law in order for it
to preserve its cultural heritage.

Figure 1. Theoretical Paradigm

 25

Conceptual Framework

The input of this study which is the independent variable, is the DILG
Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133. This focuses on the government’s effort in
preseving the cultural heritage by implementing the National Cultural Heritage Act of
2009 [R.A. 10066], thus prompting the revision of MC 2002-81 in order to provide the
required need for expansion in the functions of the Local Culture and Arts Council. The
process component consists of the sampling technique, specifically purposive sampling.
The repondents are selected based on their profession and credibility. Meaning, the
respondents have an occupation or position aligned with topic of the research which is the
extent of implementation of the DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 relating to
cultural heritage.

The output component includes the finished product after conducting the process
component. In this study the output will be the basis in identifying programs in
preserving local cultural heritage. It will determine the programs and its level of
implementation. The researchers’ theory states that the society requires an active and
effective law to preserve cultural heritage. This means that in preserving cultural heritage,
having a law that mandates this is not enough unless there is strict implementation.

Figure 2 shows an illustration of a car on its way to a house. This represents the
theory in which the car is the law, and the house as the act of preserving cultural heritage.
Without an active and effective car—in this case, law—the process of travel to the
destination would be impossible. Without the road (the cooperation of society), the path
that leads to the preservation of these cultural heritages will remain unsuccessful. Law
with little to no implementation is only counterproductive. Both parties (the law and the
society) will receive a negative outcome if the other is lost, which is why both need each
other in order to reach the destination.
 26

PRESERVATION
OF CULTURAL
DILG HERITAGE
MEMORANDUM

SOCIETY

Figure 2. Conceptual Paradigm

 27

CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This study aims to determine the extent of implementation of DILG

Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133. The researchers will use descriptive type of
research. Descriptive research does not fit perfectly into the definition of either
quantitative or qualitative research methodologies, rather it can utilize elements of both,
often within the same study. According to Best and Kahn (2007), “The term descriptive
research has often been used incorrectly to describe three types of investigation that are
different. Perhaps their superficial similarities have obscured their difference. Each of
them employs the process of disciplined inquiry through the gathering and analysis of
empirical data, and each attempts to develop knowledge. To be done competently, each
requires the expertise of the careful and systematic investigator. A brief explanation may
serve to put each one in proper perspective.” Furthermore, the researchers will utilize the
type descriptive because it attempts to describe the extent of implementation of DILG
Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133.

Respondents

Table 1 shows the different Local Government Units included in the study.
Sorsogon City, Casiguran, Juban, Gubat, Barcelona and Prieto Diaz. Ten residents from
each of these LGU are also necessary.

Local
Respondents Government Residents Total %
Employees
Sorsogon
10 10 20 16.67%
1st City
District Juban 10 10 20 16.67%
Casiguran 10 10 20 16.67%
2nd Barcelona 10 10 20 16.67%
 28

Gubat 10 10 20 16.67%
District Prieto
10 10 20 16.67%
Diaz
Total =120 100%

Table 1. Respondents

These Local Government Units are included because many cultural heritage is
present in their location. This will help determine whether the implementation of the
DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 have significant difference between the
districts.

Research Instruments

To gather data, the researchers will use survey-questionnaire. The instrument has
several parts. The first will focus on the profile of each Local Government Units with
regards to the number of the cultural landmarks and their cultural programs. The second
part will determine the extent of implementation of the DILG Memorandum Circular No.
2017-133 in each of the districts. The last part will determine the difficulties faced by
these LGU in implementing the said memorandum.

Sources of Data

Data collection will be done through both primary and secondary sources.
Primary data sources include the respondents such as the Government Officials
(including the head of each department/sector; DILG, Local Government Unit in 1st and
2nd District, Provincial Tourism Office and the Office of the Governor), Local Museum
Employees, and selected Arts and History Teachers of Sorsogon National High School to
determine how these people give importance in preserving the cultural heritage.

A survey research method will be given to address the research questions, using
the questionnaire as the main instrument. In this research, secondary data mainly covers
government publications, or some literatures that are related in the study. Data which is
being gathered via library research is categorized as the secondary data. Ramesh (2013)
described library research as a process that deals with analyzing evidences such as
 29

historical records and documents. Library research also includes information that are
gathered from internet search. Moreover, review of literature will lead to establish a
baseline to design and compare new data.

Data Gathering Procedures

The researchers will ask permission from local government officials before
conducting the research. Once approved, the researchers will create a separate letter for
the selected respondents. When the respondents give their consent, the researchers shall
continue with the interview.

During this research, the respondents will first be asked about information such as
their profile and inform them about the study to be conducted. Then instruction about the
questionnaire will be given in terms of the manner of answering the questions. The
respondents are then asked to provide data for the study by answering the given research
instrument.

The interview and survey questions will focus on gathering information about the
extent of implementation of the DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133.

Sampling Method

The researchers will be using Judgment/Purposive Sampling for the method on

choosing the respondents regarding the employees of the Local Government Units that
will be included in this study. This is because the researchers only need the representative
individuals that are chosen from a specific subgroup (in this case, departments) within the
workplace.

Then, the researchers will use Quota Sampling upon choosing the respondents
from the residents of each district. This is because the researchers will rely judgment
when choosing which residents can participate in the research. Researchers will choose a
representative that suits their needs according to their characteristics.

Statistical Treatment
 30

After the data were tabulated, the proponents will have the following statistical
tools for further interpretation.

Frequency and percentage will be utilized to determine the profile of the LGU
along DILG Memorandum Circular No. 20 17- 133 and cultural programs. In order to
determine the population sample, the researchers must use the formula for margin of error
which follows; z * σ/√n — this will help the researchers to identify the number of
respondents. Another formula to be used is the Z-Test formula in order to measure the
extent of implementation and compare the average values of the two data sets coming
from Sorsogon City and Gubat and determine whether or not they have a significant
difference.

The Z-Test formula is as follows; z = (x – μ) / σ — this formula will help the
researchers distinguish the values needed for their conclusion. This research will also
make use of the Likert scale for quantifying perceptions and indicators.

With the Likert scale, the researchers will be able to measure the perceptions of
the twenty people who will participate in the survey to be conducted. The scale will be
measured as follows; not implemented, weakly implemented, strongly implemented, and
strictly implemented.

Mean Interpretation
1 Not Implemented
2 Weakly Implemented
3 Strongly Implemented

4 Strictly Implemented

Table 2. Table of the Likert Scale to be used

 31

CHAPTER IV

EXTENT OF IMPLEMENTATION OF DILG MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO.

2017-133 ON THE CREATION OF LOCAL CULTURE AND ARTS: BASIS OF
IDENTIFYING PROGRAMS IN PRESERVING LOCAL
CULTURAL HERITAGE

This chapter presents the results, analysis, and interpretations of the research data
on the profile of select Local Government Units, the extent of implementation of DILG
Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 of select Local Government Units, the difference
on the extent of implementation of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 of Local
Government Units on First and Second Districts of Sorsogon Province, and the
challenges encountered by select Local Government Units in the implementation of
DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133.

1. Profile of select Local Government Units

a. Population

Based on the data gathered, the table shows the population of each Local
Government Unit. The first district which consists of Sorsogon City, Juban, and
Casiguran respectively; have a population of 168,110; 32,320; and 32,482. In the
second district, Barcelona has 24,433, Prieto Diaz with 22,442, and Gubat with
59,534.

Local Government Unit (LGU) Population

Sorsogon City 168,110
Juban 32,320
Casiguran 32,842
Barcelona 24,433
Prieto Diaz 22,442
Gubat 59,534
 32

Table 2.1 Population

An implication can be drawn based on this data, the population of each district
can directly affect the of compliance of the public. The higher the number of population
is, the higher the chance of people not knowing the memorandum. Based on the results of
the data gathered, the number one problem faced by the memorandum is the public
compliance, Sorsogon City have the most population and yet not all is aware of the
memorandum.

b. Topographic Location

The table below presents the data of the profile of the municipalities in terms of
topographic location. In terms of topographic location, Sorsogon City has
irregular topography consisting of mountain ranges on the north-west, sloping
uplands on the central part of the city, plain areas on the south western and central
north and southeast portion, and marshlands on the southeast deltas; Casiguran is
located at the coast of Sorsogon Bay, at the south of Luzon island; Juban is
situated approximately 12° 51' North, 123° 59' East, in the island of Luzon;
Gubat is a coastal municipality in the province of Sorsogon, consisting of white-
sand beaches to the east that faces the Pacific Ocean; Gubat in the north,
Barcelona has Bulusan in the South, Casiguran in the west and Philippine Sea in
the east, having rich soil which is the reason for the abundant supply of coconuts,
copra and root crops such as sweet potato an cassava; and Prieto Diaz is the
easternmost point on the Island of Luzon. It is located 387 km southeast of
Manila, 150 km east-southeast of Legazpi City and 20 km north-north-east of
Sorsogon City.

Local Government Unit (LGU) Topographic Location

Sorsogon City Irregular topography consisting of
mountain ranges, Plain areas, and
marshlands.
Casiguran Coast of Sorsogon Bay, at the south
of Luzon island
 33

Juban Approximately 12° 51' North,

123° 59' East
Gubat Coastal municipality in the province
of Sorsogon, known for the Rizal
Beach Resort.
Barcelona Gubat in the north, Bulusan in the
South, Casiguran in the west and
Philippine Sea in the east.
Prieto Diaz The easternmost point on the Island
of Luzon. It is located 387 km
southeast of Manila, 150 km east-
southeast of Legazpi City and 20 km
north-north-east of Sorsogon City.
Table 2.2 Topographic Locations

c. Cultural Landmarks

Based on the data gathered, these are the existing Cultural Landmarks of each
Local Government Unit. In first district which consists Sorsogon City, Casiguran and
Juban have existing cultural landmarks which are; Sorsogon Provincial Museum and
Heritage Center, St. Peter & Paul Cathedral, Sorsogon National High School, Rizal
Monument; Barba Spanish Old House, Gabardon Building, Real Spanish Old House,
Haw Spanish Old House, Our Lady of the Most Rosary Parish, De Jesus Old Spanish
Almacinamiento Building (Casiguran), and Old Spanish House, Rizal Park. While second
district has Sabater House, Monreal Ruins, Estipona Building/Golden Cinema, 1920s
House (St. Scho), Judge H. Edmundo’s, Escoto House, Nenito Fercol House, UCCP
Gubat Evangelical Church in Gubat; Heritage House (Domisiana Ervas), House of
Evasco Family (Tagdon) in Barcelona, and Prieto Diaz has Halabang Lapis Sandbar, St.
Lawrence The Deacon Parish Church and Nuestra Señor de Salvacion.
 34

Local Government Unit (LGU) Cultural Landmarks

Sorsogon City Sorsogon Provincial Museum and
Heritage Center, St. Peter & Paul
Cathedral, Sorsogon National High
School, Rizal Monument
Casiguran Barba Spanish Old House, Gabardon
Building, Real Spanish Old House,
Haw Spanish Old House, Our Lady of
the Most Rosary Parish, De Jesus Old
Spanish Almacinamiento (Storage)
Building
Juban Old Spanish House, Rizal Park
Gubat Sabater House, Monreal Ruins,
Estipona Building/Golden Cinema,
1920s House (St. Scho), Judge H.
Edmundo’s, Escoto House, Nenito
Fercol House, UCCP Gubat
Evangelical Church
Barcelona Heritage House (Domisiana Ervas),
House of Evasco Family (Tagdon),
Church of the Nazarene, St. Joseph
Parish Church
Prieto Diaz Halabang Lapis Sandbar, St.
Lawrence The Deacon Parish Church,
Nuestra Señor de Salvacion
Table 2.3 Cultural Landmarks

Based from the data gathered, it shows that first district has more cultural
landmarks preserved than second district. This may impact

2. Extent of implementation of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 of

select Local Government Units
 35

In the table shown below, the researchers formulated a way to quantify their
variable in order to measure the implementation of the Memorandum Circular using
the Likert Scale, the widely used approach in measuring responses from a survey
research. Through this table, the researchers were able to identify whether or not an
indicator expressed in the questionnaire was not implemented, partially implemented,
implemented and highly implemented.

ADJECTIVAL
RANGE INTERPRETATION
DESCRIPTION
1.00 – 1.25 Not Evident Not Implemented
1.26 – 2.50 Partially Evident Partially Implemented
2.51 – 3.50 Evident Implemented
3.51 – 4.00 Highly Evident Highly Implemented
Table 2.4 Quantification of Variable
This table is used for the interpretation of the following values regarding the
weighted mean computed by the researchers, involving the combination of means
computed for each district of Sorsogon. The mean of the means was used to finally
achieve the result of the research.

1ST DISTRICT

LOCAL
INDICATORS GOVERNMENT RESIDENTS
UNIT TOTAL
INTERPRET INTERPRET
x̄ x̄
ATION ATION

There is an
existing local
CREATION 3. 15 Implemented 2.6 Implemented 2.88
culture and
arts council
 36

in the local
government
unit.
The council
is represented
by various
sectors such
3.14 Implemented 2.73 Implemented 2.94
DEPED and
other societal
groups

Conducts
meeting with
the local
chief
3.04 Implemented 2.63 Implemented 2.84
executive as
Chairman of
the Local
Council.
FUNCTION Prepares an 2.84 Implemented 2.53 Implemented 2.69
OF THE annual plan
COUNCIL on culture,
arts, and
cultural
heritage
consonant
with the
Philippine
Development
Plan for
Culture and
 37

the Arts, to
be integrated
in the local
development
plan

and
considered in
the annual
appropriation
ordinances.

Formulates
programs and
recommendat
ions to
develop and
sustain local
cultural and
artistic
talents,
2.81 Implemented 2.7 Implemented 2.76
cultural
industries,
traditional
and
contemporary
arts and
crafts, and
their
processes.
Coordinates 2.68 Implemented 2.3 Partially 2.5
with the
 38

appropriate
affiliated
cultural
agencies of
the National
Commission
for Culture
and Arts
(NCCA) for
the Implemented
conservation
and
monitoring of
National
Cultural
Properties
found in the
LGU.

Conducts
cultural
events such
as cultural
festivals,
3.13 Implemented 3.27 Implemented 3.2
competition,
lectures,
seminars and

Symposia.

Identify such 2.94 Implemented 2.7 Implemented 2.8

other
 39

programs and
activities for
the
promotion of
local cultural
heritage and

arts.

Ensures the
protection,
preservation,
conservation
and
2.82 Implemented 2.7 Implemented 2.77
promotion of
local cultural
and historical
heritage.

Declare and
maintain
Partially Partially
Local 2.41 2.47 2.44
Implemented Implemented
Heritage
Zones.
Establish a
Local
Partially Partially
Registry of 2.39 2.37 2.38
Implemented Implemented
Cultural
Property.
Acknowledge 2.65 Implemented 2.7 Implemented 2.68
the
importance
 40

of traditional
folk artist as
singular
conduit
between
skills of the
past and the
future.

Revitalize a
community's
artistic
tradition
thereby
protecting a
valuable fact
of Philippine
Culture
Providing
mechanisms
2.55 Implemented 2.63 Implemented 2.59
for
identification
and
assistance for
qualified
traditional
folk artists to
transfer their
skills to the
community

Providing 2.67 Implemented 2.47 Partially 2.57

 41

mechanisms
for
identification
and
assistance for
qualified
Implemented
traditional
folk artists to
transfer their
skills to the
community

Create
opportunities
for
2.67 Implemented 2.57 Implemented 2.62
popularizing
their works
locally
GRAND MEAN 2.79 Implemented 2.64 Implemented 2.715
Table 2.5 1st District of Sorsogon

In the table shown above, the researchers present the final computation of data
between the two districts of Sorsogon. Each arithmetic mean represents the mean of the
means of the answers of each respondent from their respective district. Each of their
answers were computed into numerical values, hence, the data above.

The researchers reduced their opinions into numbers in order to have the
sufficient data they had. For all the Local Government Units of the 1st District, each
indicator under the "Creation" section are said to be Implemented. The researchers
received the same result when it came to the residents of the 1st District. Under the
section of "Function of Council", almost all indicators are labelled as Implemented when
it came to Local Government Units. Most of the indicators under the second section are
 42

labelled as partially implemented, according to the residents. The grand mean of the 1 st
District amounts to 2.715, reaching the range for Implemented.

The researchers reached the conclusion that the 1st District needs to improve their
council. They also need a better background circling the topic of cultural heritage. The
results were thought to be biased, in regards to the aspect of lack of knowledge, in the
part of the residents. Most of them would just answer any number without actually being
educated by it.

2ND DISTRICT

LOCAL
GOVERNMENT RESIDENTS
INDICATORS
UNIT
TOTAL
INTERPRET
x̄ x̄ INTERPRET
ATION
ATION
CREATION There is an
existing local
culture and
Highly 3.27
arts council 4 2.53 Implemented
Implemented
in the local
government
unit.
The council 3.65 Highly 2.87 Implemented 3.26
is represented Implemented
by various
sectors such
DEPED and
other societal
 43

groups

Conducts
meeting with
the local
chief
3.5 Implemented 2.73 Implemented 3.11
executive as
Chairman of
the Local
Council.
FUNCTION Prepares an 3.35 Implemented 2.67 Implemented 3.01
OF THE annual plan
COUNCIL on culture,
arts, and
cultural
heritage
consonant
with the
Philippine
Development
Plan for
Culture and
the Arts, to
be integrated
in the local
development
plan

and
considered in
the annual
appropriation
 44

ordinances.

Formulates
programs and
recommendat
ions to
develop and
sustain local
cultural and
artistic
talents,
2.87 Implemented 2.77 Implemented 2.82
cultural
industries,
traditional
and
contemporary
arts and
crafts, and
their
processes.
Coordinates 3.18 Implemented 2.53 Implemented 2.86
with the
appropriate
affiliated
cultural
agencies of
the National
Commission
for Culture
and Arts
(NCCA) for
 45

the
conservation
and
monitoring of
National
Cultural
Properties
found in the
LGU.

Conducts
cultural
events such
as cultural
festivals,
3.37 Implemented 3 Implemented 3.19
competition,
lectures,
seminars and

Symposia.

Identify such
other
programs and
activities for
the Partially
3.1 Implemented 2.33 2.72
promotion of Implemented
local cultural
heritage and

arts.

Ensures the 2.47 Partially 2.9 Implemented 2.69

 46

protection,
preservation,
conservation
and
promotion of Implemented

local cultural
and historical
heritage.

Declare and
maintain
Partially Partially
Local 2.2 2.1 2.15
Implemented Implemented
Heritage
Zones.
Establish a
Local
Partially Partially
Registry of 2.28 2 2.14
Implemented Implemented
Cultural
Property.
Acknowledge
the
importance
of traditional
folk artist as
singular
2.82 Implemented 2.8 Implemented 2.81
conduit
between
skills of the
past and the
future.

Revitalize a 3.18 Implemented 2.5 Partially 2.84

 47

community's
artistic
tradition
thereby
protecting a
valuable fact
of Philippine
Culture
Providing
mechanisms
for Implemented

identification
and
assistance for
qualified
traditional
folk artists to
transfer their
skills to the
community

Providing 3.1 Implemented 2.6 Implemented 2.85

mechanisms
for
identification
and
assistance for
qualified
traditional
folk artists to
transfer their
 48

skills to the
community

Create
opportunities
for
2.92 Implemented 2.7 Implemented 2.81
popularizing
their works
locally
Partially
GRAND MEAN 3.12 Implemented 2.43 2.81
Implemented
Table 2.6 2nd District of Sorsogon
Moving on to the 2nd District, the data gathered is very much similar to the
previous, only a few qualities differ. Under the section of "Creation", there are a few
indicators labeled as Highly Implemented, according to the Local Government Unit. The
rest were Implemented, according to the respondents. The grand mean of the 2 nd District
is 2.81, reaching the range of Implemented.
The researchers began to infer that the 1st and 2nd District of Sorsogon still needs
improving upon certain aspects of the council being created for the program. The 1 st
District is still quite in need for a better background circling the topic of cultural heritage.
The results were thought to be biased, in regards to the aspect of lack of knowledge, in
the part of the residents. Most of them would just answer any number without actually
being educated by it. Most were not aware of the fact that their answers may affect the
research and lead it to become faulty. Residents and even Local Government Unit must
be informed of things such as the formation of different councils within their Department.
In that way, they would be more informed and feel the need to do offer help.

In an earlier chapter, the researchers mentioned the Gabriel, Claudio, and Bolisay
(2017) studied how the alternative source of income and community tourism may
strengthen and sustain the multi-stakeholder collaboration existing in one of the tourist
destinations in need of preservation. The researchers have reached the conclusion that
this may be the reason why the 2nd District’s implementations of the Memorandum
 49

Circular is much more effective than that of the 1st district; it is because the extent of their
implementation is far more visible, regardless of the numerical data based on the survey.
The alternative source of income and community might have been used in regards to the
preservation of cultural heritage by the different locations within the 2nd District.

3. Significant difference on the extent of implementation of DILG

Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 of Local Government Units on First
and Second Districts of Sorsogon Province

Based from the results of the data gathered, the significant differences between the
extent of implementation of Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 in the first and second
district is that, first district has 271.5% of implementing the said Memorandum while
second district has 281% of implementation.

DIFFERENCES

INDICATORS
1STDISTRICT 2ND DISTRICT
(LGU AND x̄ (LGU AND x̄
RESIDENTS) RESIDENTS)

CREATION OF
LOCAL CULTURE Implemented 2.64` Implemented 3.12
AND ARTS COUNCIL

FUNCTION OF THE Implemented 2.79 Implemented/Partially 3.12/

COUNCIL Implemented 2.43
 50

TOTAL: 2.715 2.81

Therefore, only a few qualities differ on the first and second district, but it
shows that the second district has an implementation that is being practiced and
observed rather than the first district.

4. Challenges encountered by select Local Government Units in the

implementation of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133

Table 5.1 shows the representation of the challenges enumerated on the survey

questionnaire in order to identify the most common problems encountered by Local

Government Units in implementing the DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133

by identifying which challenge is the most evident among the respondents. Each of

the problems are numbered in the order they appear on the survey questionnaire such

as lack of personnel represented by 1, lack of financial resources represented by 2,

lack of public compliance represented by 3, lack of public knowledge represented by

4, lack of personnel participation represented by 5, Lack of coordination between

government agencies and non-governmental organizations represented by 6, no

allocated funds for the council represented by 7, lack of support coming from the

national government represented by 8, lack of support or coordination with other

LGU represented by 9, and others (for reconstitution) represented by 10.

Challenge Encountered
Lack of personnel 1
Lack of financial resources 2
Lack of public compliance 3
Lack of public knowledge 4
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Lack of personnel participation 5

Lack of coordination between government agencies and non-governmental organizations 6
No allocated funds for the council 7
Lack of support coming from the national government 8
Lack of support or coordination with other LGU 9
Others (for reconstitution) 10

Table 6.1 Challenges Encountered by the LGUs

The table below shows the ranking of the challenges in order from most frequent to less

frequent. The data gathered shows that lack of public knowledge, financial resources, and

personnel recurs the most among the ten. Moreover, the challenge that is considered the least by

the respondents is the lack of coordination between government agencies and non-governmental

organization, along with one of the respondents identifying that the council to be made as per

function of the memorandum was under reconstitution being one of the challenges in their

municipality given the option to enumerate their own.

1st District 2nd District Total

Local Resid Over Local Resid Over Local Resid Over
Governm ents all Governm ents all Governm ents all

ent Unit ent Unit ent Unit

1 1,4 1 2 4 1,2 1 4 4

2,4 3 4 1 1 4 2 3 2
3,5 2,9 2,3 4 2,3,8 3,8 4 2 1

6 8 5 3,8 5 5 3 8 3

7 5 9 5 7 7 5 1 5

9 7 8 7 9 9 8 9 9

8 6 6,7 6,9 6 6 7 5 8
6 7 7
9 6 6
T
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Table 5.2 Ranking of the Challenges Encountered by the LGUs

Based on the computations, the data gathered implies that the implementation of

the DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 is flawed. This is because although

previous data regarding whether the memorandum is implemented or not, it shows that it

is implemented. However, in discussing whether it is implemented properly, the

computed data implies that it is not.

According to Realist Theory of Law, in order to achieve a fully functional society,

all law must be implemented properly. This supports the implication that the

memorandum not only needs to be implemented but it needs to be implemented properly

in order for it to be effective. According to Murgante & Danese (2011), Cultural heritage

is quite fragile as it is important, which makes it difficult to preserve and that difficulty

does not mean impossible, as it has been practiced for many decades now. Many factors

can threaten the preservation of cultural heritages however, there are steps that can be

taken to ensure preventable threats are avoided. The data shows that lack of public

knowledge is the most common challenge, this data becomes relevant in connection with

the cited study as it shows where the focus should be in terms of implementing this

memorandum properly.

CHAPTER V
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SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND

RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter discussed and interpreted the outcomes of the findings from the

research conducted the summary of findings was used to arrive at the conclusion which

can be drawn from research results. In addition, recommendations were provided for the

future research, which would take the study into further concentration.

Summary

This study aimed to measure the level of implementation of the DILG

Memorandum Circular No. 2017- 133 in different districts. Specifically, it sought to
answer the following questions:

3. What is the profile of select Local Government Unit among the number of:
d) population,
e) topographic location, and;
f) cultural landmarks?
4. What is the extent of implementation of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-
133 of select Local Government Units in the aspect of:
d) creation of committee
e) creation of programs, and;
f) placement of personnel?

3. Is there a significant difference on the extent of implementation of DILG

Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 of Local Government Units on First and
Second District of Sorsogon Province?

4. What are the challenges encountered by select Local Government Units in the
implementation of DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133?

The respondents are 10 residents and 10 Local Government Unit employees each from
three different municipalities of the two districts of Sorsogon Province. To gather data,
 54

the researchers used survey-questionnaire wherein the first part focused on the profile of
each Local Government Units with regards to the number of the cultural landmarks and
their cultural programs, the second part determined the extent of implementation of the
DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2017-133 in each of the districts, and the last part
determined the difficulties faced by these LGU in implementing the said memorandum.
Moreover, for the statistical tool, frequency and percentage were utilized to determine the
profile of the LGU along DILG Memorandum Circular No. 20 17- 133 and cultural
programs, the formula for margin of error helped the researchers identify the number of
respondents, the Z-Test formula to measure the extent of implementation and compare
the average values of the two data sets, and the Likert scale to measure the perceptions of
the respondents.

Findings

Based on the interpretation of the gathered data, the following findings were drawn:

1.) ,
2.) The DILG Memorandum Circular No. 133-2017 is implemented among all
the respondents’ respective municipalities, 1st district and 2nd district alike.
3.) There is no significant difference between the implementation of the
memorandum in both municipalities.
4.) The challenge encountered the most in the implementation of the
memorandum is the lack of public knowledge.

Conclusions

Based on the results, the following conclusions can be drawn:

1.) There are cultural heritages that requires protection from the government and

the public.

2.) The select Local Government Units implement the DILG Memorandum

Circular No. 133-2017.

 55

3.) The null hypothesis is accepted, there is no significant difference between the

first and second district in implementing the memorandum.

4.) The problem encountered by the memorandum is the lack of public

knowledge. With the population booming it is hard to ensure that people are

aware of what the memorandum is about.

Recommendations

Listed below are the recommendations made based on the results:

1.) Both the government and the public have to retain the number of local cultural
heritage in the coming years.
2.) The memorandum must be implemented more intensely. The LGUs must not
settle with what the memorandum is now. Further steps can be made to ensure
a more effective implementation.
3.) The 1st district and 2nd district have to keep up with each other in terms of
advancement.
4.) The LGUs should make more activities that involve the public.
5.) The government should take advantage of technology. Social media and other
platforms are good way to encourage the public to take part in activities that
evolve around the preservation of local cultural heritage.