Official Statement on the planned use of SNHS Main Building

as the DepEd Sorsogon City Office

The Sorsogon National High School Main Building holds significant cultural and historical value as a building aged over 50 years old, qualifying it for protection under the National Cultural Heritage Act (Republic Act No. 10066). Thus, it is crucial to recognize and respect the importance of preserving such heritage sites for the benefit of current and future generations.

The National Cultural Heritage Act, officially designated as Republic Act No. 10066, is a landmark legislation in the Philippines aimed at safeguarding the nation's rich cultural heritage. Signed into law known as RA No. 10066 on March 26, 2010, it introduced measures to protect historic buildings aged over 50 years. As artists, educators, and cultural workers, we argue against the demolition of such building and advocate for its preservation in alignment with the National Cultural Heritage Act:

·   ​Cultural Significance: Historic buildings are repositories of the nation's cultural identity and heritage. They serve as tangible links to the past, offering insights into the architectural styles, craftsmanship, and way of life of earlier generations. Demolishing these structures would erase an integral part of our cultural narrative, undermining the collective memory of the people of Sorsogan.

·   ​Educational Value: Historical buildings provide valuable educational resources for future generations. They serve as living classrooms, allowing students and researchers to study and appreciate architectural evolution, construction techniques, and the historical context in which these structures were built. Preserving them ensures that these learning opportunities remain accessible to all.

·   ​Impact to the Students: The relocation of students to an alternative location, poses a significant threat to the preservation of our cultural heritage and negatively impacts the educational environment. Relocating them to another site due to the conversion of the historic building into an office space would disrupt their educational experience. The historical context embedded in the existing structure contributes to a unique and enriching learning environment that cannot be easily replicated elsewhere.

·   ​Community Identity: Historic buildings are integral to the identity of local communities. They serve as landmarks that define and distinguish neighborhoods. The destruction of such structures disrupts the continuity of community identity, eroding the sense of place and belonging among residents. Preservation efforts can strengthen communities and pride.

·   ​Sustainable Practices: Demolishing buildings contributes to environmental degradation, generating substantial waste and consuming resources. Preserving historic structures promotes sustainable practices by repurposing existing materials and reducing the environmental footprint associated with new construction. This aligns with global efforts to promote sustainability and combat climate change.

·   ​National Cultural Heritage Act Compliance:The National Cultural Heritage Act explicitly recognizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage, imposing legal obligations to protect structures over 50 years old. Demolishing such buildings would constitute a violation of this legislation. Adhering to the law demonstrates the government's commitment to upholding cultural heritage preservation.

Therefore, the Sorsogon National High School stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural heritage of Sorsogon. Its historic significance contributes to the collective memory of the community and Sorsogon’s cultural narrative. Repurposing this building for the DepEd Sorsogon City Division Office could compromise its structural integrity and diminish its historical value.

Moreover, preserving the Sorsogon National High School Main Building is not only a legal obligation but also a commitment to the holistic development of our students. Exposure to cultural heritage within the educational setting fosters a sense of identity, pride, and connection to the past. Displacing students from this historic site would deprive them of the opportunity to engage with their cultural roots on a daily basis.

It is our responsibility to safeguard and protect structures with cultural significance. Alternative options for the location of the DepEd Sorsogon City Division Office should be explored to ensure the preservation of Sorsogon National High School Main Building as an essential piece of the province’s rich cultural heritage. By doing so, we not only honor the legal mandates set forth in the National Cultural Heritage Act but also demonstrate our commitment to preserving the unique identity and history embedded in this historic building.

We oppose the destruction of the SNHS Main Building!

Preserve the SNHS Main Building!

Let the SNHS Main Building endure! 

Do not demolish!

 

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The Kurit-Lagting is a collective artistic collaboration of Bicolano artists from Sorsogon, Albay, Catanduanes, Masbate and Camarines provinces with art advocacies on human rights and the environment. 

The Art Collective is a member of the Sorsogon Arts Council and the Concerned Artists of the Philippines Bicol Chapter. 

The Sorsogon Arts Council (SAC) is a local body of Sorsoganon artists founded by the late writer, Reynaldo Jamoralin. SAC advocates for indigenous, regional and Filipino artistic talents and the enhancement, development and promotion of Filipino culture.

The Concerned Artists of the Philippines Bicol Chapter (CAP-Bicol) is one of CAP’s newest chapters formed in October 2020, which is composed of artists, musicians, writers, filmmakers and cultural workers from various disciplines that work toward a nationalist, people-oriented art and culture. One of CAP’s founders is Lino Brocka, a national artist for Film who was born in Sorsogon.

 

Text: Kurit-Lagting

Photo: Bicol Express News