From Community to Conservation: Community Engagement and Public Archaeology as Catalysts for Heritage Stewardship

Israh Marie D. Dayalo* and Maricyn A. De los Santos

Archaeological research in Panay Island, central Philippines, has historically been limited despite several explorations by scholars. Recent initiatives by the National Museum of the Philippines Iloilo seek to address this gap through scientific research and community‑centred heritage programmes. One key approach is the Pambansang Museo sa Barangay mobile museum boxes, a universal‑access programme that brings archaeological knowledge directly to local communities through lectures emphasising the importance of scientific excavation and cultural heritage protection. Central to these engagements is the Oton Gold Death Mask from Oton, a National Cultural Treasure and a significant pre‑colonial artefact that underscores the archaeological richness of Panay and the need for systematic research and conservation. Complementing these lectures are interactive educational activities such as sandbox excavation workshops, where high school students gain hands‑on experience with archaeological methods, including excavation techniques, documentation, and artefact handling. These activities foster early awareness of archaeological practice and encourage community participation in heritage stewardship. This paper examines how such public archaeology initiatives contribute to the revival of archaeological research in Panay by cultivating public interest, strengthening local heritage awareness, and building support for future scientific investigations. It argues that integrating community engagement with institutional research agendas is essential for sustaining archaeological practice and heritage protection in the region.