Cultural and linguistic mapping in Laguna Province: Preserving indigenous heritage and communication Author - Affiliation: Karen Ang Manaig - Laguna State Polytechnic University, Laguna Chester Alexis C. Buama - Laguna State Polytechnic University, Laguna Adrian Ting - Lingnan University Hong Kong Melvin T. Guache - Laguna State Polytechnic University, Laguna Corresponding author: Karen Ang Manaig - karen.manaig@lspu.edu.ph DOI:10.46223/HCMCOUJS.soci.en.15.5.3538.2025 Submitted: 05-07-2024 Accepted: 05-11-2024 Published: 12-12-2024

Abstract

This study explored the cultural and linguistic mapping in Laguna Province in preserving indigenous heritage and communication. The study employed the narrative inquiry method. The study participants were ten residents across various towns and cities in Laguna. They were interviewed and asked to tell their stories and experiences. The data collected underwent coding and thematic analyses. The research uncovers four key themes: Cultural Heritage Preservation and Evolution, Linguistic Diversity and Proficiency, Challenges in Preserving Cultural Heritage in a Changing Society, and Community Engagement and Participation in Cultural Preservation. These themes underscore the urgent need to protect cultural traditions against globalization, urbanization, and technological advancements. Likewise, it revealed themes from residents’ testimonials, offering deep insights into their experiences. The first theme highlights the importance of preserving cultural traditions while allowing them to evolve, emphasizing culture’s dynamic nature and the need for ongoing efforts to safeguard it. The second theme focuses on the linguistic diversity in the province, stressing the value of proficiency in multiple languages for shaping cultural identity and promoting communication. The third theme explores the challenges of preserving cultural heritage in a rapidly changing society where globalization, urbanization, and environmental factors threaten traditional practices. Lastly, the study underscores the significance of community involvement, emphasizing that collective efforts are crucial to preserving cultural heritage for future generations. Thus, the Tradition, Roots, Evolution, Engagement (TREE) Model is introduced to encapsulate these themes and provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in cultural preservation. The findings offer significant insights into the challenges and motivations driving cultural and linguistic preservation, aiming to inspire respect and recognition for Laguna’s diverse cultural practices. Acknowledging limitations such as a small sample size, the study calls for further research with a broader and more diverse participant base to deepen the understanding of cultural and linguistic dynamics in the province. Ultimately, the study aspires to contribute to policy-making and educational initiatives that support the revitalization of indigenous languages and the sustainable preservation of cultural heritage.