International Day of the Intangible Cultural Heritage

October 17 is the International Day of the Intangible Cultural Heritage!

At the 42nd General Conference, UNESCO proclaimed the said International Day celebration to raise awareness of the diversity and richness of living heritage and the importance of its safeguarding.

The Philippines is home to four elements included in the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage: Aklan piña handloom weaving (2023), Tugging rituals and games (2015), Hudhud chants of the Ifugao (2008), and Darangen Epic of the Maranao people of Lake Lanao (2008). The country has also successfully registered The School of Living Traditions (2021) in UNESCO’s Good Safeguarding Practices. Meanwhile, the Buklog, thanksgiving ritual system of the Subanen (2019) is recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.

Throughout the ongoing 220th UNESCO Executive Board Session which is taking place until 22 October 2024, the Philippines is mounting an exhibit, Aklan Piña Handloom Weaving and the School of Living Traditions of the Philippines, that showcases piña textile – a renowned Filipino fabric celebrated for its beauty and intricate craftsmanship. It also features the Schools of Living Traditions, which teach traditional crafts and skills to preserve Philippine cultural heritage.