In a strong demonstration of its commitment to community extension, legal education, and cultural preservation, the College of Law, in coordination with the Social Advocacy and Community Engagement Office (SACEO), recently conducted an outreach activity titled “Dayaw Kultura: Preserving Ancestral Wisdom, Celebrating Living Traditions” at Brgy. Agcalaga, Calinog, Iloilo on May 16, 2026.
The meaningful event was held at the indigenous peoples (IP) community of the Panay Bukidnon, drawing active participation from local residents, tribal leaders, and community stakeholders.
Bridging Classroom Knowledge and Community Engagement
The immersion served as a practical application for law students currently studying Cultural Properties, Heritage, and Tourism. By stepping out of the classroom and engaging directly with the Panay Bukidnon community, the students were able to integrate their theoretical knowledge with real-world, practical engagement in cultural heritage preservation.
Advocating for Indigenous Rights
A central highlight of the program was an informative and empowering lecture delivered by Atty. Anfred P. Panes, who shed light on the historical significance of indigenous peoples in shaping the nation’s identity.
Atty. Panes thoroughly discussed IP rights, emphasizing the legal frameworks that protect their ancestral domains, cultural integrity, and self-governance. The discussion aimed to equip the community with a deeper understanding of their rights under the law, reinforcing the College of Law’s mission to bridge the gap between legal expertise and grassroots communities.
Following the lecture, a dynamic open forum was facilitated by the IP Chieftain, Mr. Jimmy Lastrilla, and Atty. Anfred Panes. The forum provided a vital platform for the students to ask questions regarding the community’s traditional activities and gain different perspectives on pressing social and cultural issues.
Community and Stakeholder Support
The event was also well-supported by local government leaders, led by Barangay Captain Edgar Lastrilla, alongside other barangay officials, who expressed their gratitude for the institution’s continued support and engagement with their community.
To ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the day’s activities, personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were on-site to provide security and logistical support for the venue.
Through initiatives like Dayaw Kultura, the institution continues to live out its advocacy of fostering social awareness, protecting cultural heritage, and empowering marginalized sectors through accessible legal education and community engagement.
SDG: 4,10, 11, 16, 17
