29

10.2008

In recognition of the distinct and significant history of various places in the archipelago, the National Historical Institute (NHI), National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCAA) and City Government of Naga, in cooperation with Naga College Foundation, conducted a Seminar-Workshop on Local History Writing last October 16 and 17 at the Melchor Villanueva Hall, Naga College Foundation, Barangay Liboton, Naga City. In his message, Prof. Ambeth R. Ocampo, NHI Chairman, stressed that national history should not be mainly concentrated to the local history of Manila. “We should go out of Manila. In 1913, Governor General Francis Burton Harrison ordered the collection and compilation of towns’ respective local history. Damaged by the Second World War, President Diosdado Macapagal in the 1960s ordered the same. Local history, make up national history.” The Philippine Daily Inquirer columnist also made special mention of La Union and its connection to Camarines Sur, the host province. Accordingly, Doña Laureana Novicio y Luna of Luna town formerly known as Namacpacan, wrote a letter to the Tomas Arejola who is a native of Naga City. She thanked the Bicolano’s write-ups which praised her sons’ (Antonio the general and Juan the painter) patriotism.