Manila (TDI): ASEAN member states have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional cooperation for the protection of cultural heritage during the “ASEAN Regional Dialogue: Building Foundations for Cooperation in Cultural Heritage Protection,” held from June 22 to 24 in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines.
The three-day dialogue brought together cultural heritage practitioners and representatives from ASEAN member states to exchange knowledge, discuss common challenges, and explore practical approaches to safeguarding the region’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. The initiative builds on the ongoing ASEAN–Italy cooperation on cultural heritage protection and seeks to strengthen institutional partnerships across Southeast Asia.
The program was organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) of the Philippines through its Cultural Properties Regulation Division. Participants engaged in country presentations, thematic discussions and heritage site visits aimed at promoting collaboration and identifying future areas of regional cooperation.
Opening the event, NCCA Chairman and ASEAN Minister Responsible for Culture and the Arts of the Philippines, Dr Eric Zerrudo, emphasized that while ASEAN countries possess unique cultural identities, they face many common challenges in protecting their heritage. He said the dialogue provides an opportunity to share experiences, expertise and practical solutions.
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Representing the ASEAN Secretariat, Annie Luis briefed participants on ongoing regional initiatives and cooperation programs related to cultural heritage protection.
Country presentations featured representatives from the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, highlighting national policies and best practices in areas including heritage law enforcement, cultural property protection, museum management, digital documentation and safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.
Delegates also participated in thematic breakout sessions focusing on multi-agency coordination, information-sharing systems, legal and policy frameworks, and capacity development. The discussions explored ways to improve cooperation among cultural agencies, customs authorities, law enforcement bodies and local communities in protecting cultural assets.
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The dialogue concluded with site-based learning activities in several heritage locations across Pampanga before participants reconvened to identify priority areas for future ASEAN cooperation and outline recommendations for strengthening regional efforts to preserve Southeast Asia’s shared cultural heritage.
