QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- Public information officers (PIOs) on Tuesday tackled challenges in promoting local history, despite its potential to foster identity and community pride, according to a conference held Tuesday, March 19 at the Presidential Car Museum, Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency – National Capital Region (PIA-NCR) and the Association of Information Officers in Metro Manila (AIMM), convened the conference to discuss strategies for boosting local history awareness.
NHCP Executive Director Carminda Arevalo acknowledged the difficulties faced by the agency in sparking public interest. "A common question we receive is whether history is relevant to everyday life," Arevalo said.
"Can it contribute to economic development?" She emphasized the importance of effective communication in bridging this gap.
Information officers and communicators, she said, play a crucial role in "explaining complex historical concepts to the public" and promoting positive practices in the field.
The gathering was attended by AIMM officers and members, along with PIA Director-General Jose A. Torres Jr., and Deputy Director-General Adolfo Ares Gutierrez as guests of honor.
PIA-NCR Regional Director Emver P. Cortez, for his part, concurred with Arevalo, stressing the power of storytelling in promoting cultural and historical knowledge.
"Communication goes beyond policy documents and press releases," Cortez said.
"It's about engaging narratives that can enrich our understanding of ourselves and build a sense of belonging."
The conference explored various aspects of local history promotion, including the role of museums, and the importance of national symbols. It also covered topics such as heritage preservation law, and flag and heraldic law.
The AIMM, a group of nearly 100 information officers from local government units and national agencies, aims to collaborate and share ideas for regional development, including cultural initiatives. (JVD/PIA-NCR)
