DBM PRESS RELEASE
8 November 2024
As an advocate for cultural preservation, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman commended the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) for its recent initiatives to safeguard the nation’s cultural heritage. This recognition follows the recent signing of Memorandums of Agreement (MOAs) between the NHCP and the municipalities of Sibutu and Simunul, Tawi-Tawi, on November 6 and 7, 2024, aimed at the redevelopment of the Sheik Karimol Makhdum Burial Site and the Masjid Sheikh Makhdum in Simunul.
"Preserving our shared heritage is essential not only for honoring the past but also for inspiring future generations. This is especially important for Mindanao, my homeland, where rich cultural traditions deserve to be celebrated and recognized as part of our national identity,” Secretary Mina said.
Each project has been allocated P2.5 million for fiscal year 2024 to support the Detailed Architectural and Engineering Studies (DAES) that will guide the preservation and enhancement of these culturally significant sites.
“We congratulate the NHCP for this recent success, especially itong partnerships sa ating lokal na pamahalaan. Sa tulong ng Historical Commission, ang mga lugar tulad ng Sheik Karimol Makhdum Burial Site ay mananatiling buhay at magsisilbing simbolo ng ating makulay na kultura. Buo po ang suporta ng DBM sa ganitong pagtutulungan na nagdiriwang at nagpoprotekta sa mayamang kasaysayan ng Filipino Muslim heritage,” the Budget Secretary affirmed.
Alongside the signing of the agreements, the 2030 Year of Philippine Muslim History and Heritage (2030 YPMHH) was launched during the 644th Sheikh Makhdum Day celebrations in Simunul, Tawi-Tawi. Led by NHCP Chair Regalado Trota Jose Jr., BCPCH Chairperson Salem Y. Lingasa, and NCMF Regional Director Zulfikar Abantas, the event included a logo unveiling to mark the start of this multi-year observance.
Initiated under Administrative Order No. 10 (AO 10) by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the 2030 Year of Philippine Muslim History and Heritage (2030 YPMHH) celebrates the rich heritage and contributions of Filipino Muslims to the nation’s history.
The DAES project represents the first phase of redevelopment for two significant cultural sites—a National Historic Shrine and a National Historical Landmark—as part of the 2030 YPMHH. AO 10 appointed the NHCP to head the National Organizing Committee for this initiative, alongside the NCMF, BCPCH-BARMM, DBM, DOT, DND, DFA, DepEd, DILG, and OPAPRU.
As a dedicated champion of AO 10, Sec. Mina has played a crucial role in bringing this vision to life. She ensures that the stories, achievements, and cultural heritage of Filipino Muslims are preserved and honored as an integral part of the Philippine national identity.
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