Project-TAOID
Project-TAOID
To foster a new generation of advocates for San Fernando's rich cultural heritage, the
City of San Fernando, La Union successfully conducted its first-ever TAOID Project, a three-
day immersive experience held at Ynad's Place Hotel and Resort from September 20 to 22,
2024.
The project, brought together 40 young participants eager to learn about and advocate
for the city's rich cultural heritage, arts, and history and provided a platform for the youth to
delve into the importance of cultural heritage and identity, exploring topics such as
community involvement,, sustainable tourism, the legacy of Ilocano culture, and the
individual responsibility in preserving cultural values.
"As a SHS student, joining in TAOID Project is a great opportunity for me to learn
our culture and traditions here in San Fernando," said Arnel Mendevil, one of the TAOID
Ambassadors.
"It offers me a chance to learn about our local culture, develop valuable skills, and
become an active member of my community. By participating in workshops and researching
history, I gain a deeper appreciation for my heritage, develop leadership skills, and contribute
to the preservation of my community's rich traditions," Mendevil added.
Equipped with essential skills in photography and social media planning, allowing
them to effectively document and share their newfound knowledge and experiences with a
wider audience, the participants further thicken their understanding of the city's history and
cultural landscape by visiting significant landmarks, including Bacsil Ridge, Pindangan
Ruins, City Hall, La Union Science Centrum, Botanical Garden, and IBIT’s Farm.
The program also featured a diverse lineup of speakers who shared their expertise and
insights on various aspects of cultural preservation and advocacy, including Hon. Mary Jane
C. Ortega, Former City Mayor; Prof. Elizabeth A. Caliwanagan, Former Dean of the College
of Arts and Communication, University of the Philippines Baguio; Ms. Darlene A. Buccat, La
Union Provincial Tourism Office (LUPTO) Culture and Arts Officer III; Mr. Minoru C.
Fujihara, LUPTO Tourism Operations Officer II; Ms. Shairalene Guerrero, Provincial
Information Office (PIO) Information Officer III, Founder of Wonder Works Creative Lab
Studio; DOT-accredited regional and community guides from the Association of Active Tour
Guides in La Union (ASTG LU) – Mr. Randall Brioso, Ms. Bella Reyna Corazon B.
Gamueda, Ms. Joy Ann L. Gurtiza, and Ms. Almira S. Pagaduan; Dr. Mark Anthony D.
Latoja, City Public Information Office (CPIO) Administrative Officer V; and Engr. Manuel
Acosta, Ms. Annamei Acosta, and Mr Renato Gurion Jr. of Ibit's Farm.
TAOID, which translates to "legacy" in the Ilocano language and emphasizes the
importance of preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of a community by representing
the things we inherit from the past, including traditions, values, and cultural practices, has
successfully cultivated a new generation of passionate advocates for the preservation and
promotion of San Fernando's cultural legacy by equipping these young individuals with
knowledge, skills, and a deep appreciation for their community's rich history.