In partnership with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) CAR, Saint Louis University hosted the 36th Cordillera Month Celebration Webinar Series on July 7 and 12, 2023. This year’s theme, “Celebrating One, Resilient, Diverse, and Inclusive (CORDI) Journey Toward Regional Autonomy,” strengthens the pursuit of regional autonomy.
Among the keynote speakers include Dr. Shivanee Dolo, faculty of the Department of Political and Social Sciences; Dr. Stephenie O. Busbus, Institutional Reputation and Recognitions Chair, OIDQA; Dr. Gaston P. Kibiten, Curator/Archivist, SLU Museum of Arts and Cultures; and Dr. Felina P. Espique, Dean of the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts.
On July 7, Dr. Shivanee Dolo tackled the significant conversation on “The Layering of Cultural Identities in the Cordillera Region,” while Dr. Stephenie Busbus centered on the importance of “Indigenous Language Preservation and Revitalization.” The first day ended with Dr. Gaston Kibiten’s presentation, “Taking Pride in our Cultural Heritage: A Virtual Tour of the Collections of the Museum of Igorot Cultures and Arts.” On the second day, July 12, Dr. Felina Espique gave a comprehensive session on the needed discourse on “Best Practices in Conducting Research Exploring Cordilleran Culture.”
The Cordillera Month is an annual observance conceptualized by the Cordillera Regional Development Council (RDC-CAR) to raise awareness about autonomy advocacy and to generate support from all stakeholders for a Cordillera Organic Act.
The collaboration between SLU and NEDA aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and 17 (Partnership for the Goals). In support of the ideals of the Cordillera Administrative Region, the webinar series affirms the CEAP JEEPGY value of Engaged Citizenship and the CICM Advocacies on Justice, Peace, Integrity of Creation, and Indigenous Peoples Apostolates.
