Cultivating Heritage: The Power of Education in the Blaan Community
In the delicate dance of cultures, Indigenous practices are gradually merging into mainstream culture. Amidst migration, technological advancements, and other influences, Josseth A. Malida sees education as crucial for preserving heritage. To Malida, education is a lifeline, a way to weave together past and future, ensuring the Blaan culture thrives despite inevitable changes. Malida, a Blaan educator from Barangay Landan in Polomolok, South Cotabato, is a dedicated teacher and the coordinator of the Cultural Heritage Learning Center (CHLC) at Landan National High School. She has lived in her community for many years and witnessed significant cultural changes. Malida, who holds a deep respect for her Blaan elders, feels frustrated seeing them in conditions where their Indigenous skills are not utilized, particularly in teaching the younger generation. For her, the transfer of indigenous skills is a crucial part of cultural preservation, as it ensures the continuity of their Blaan...
