BUTUAN CITY — The epic play “Lawig Balangay” will be revived at the first Butuan Balangay International Conference on September 18 and 19, 2025, marking 50 years since the archaeological discovery of the Butuan balangay boats in Agusan del Norte. The conference, a collaboration between the University of the Philippines, Caraga State University, the National Museum of the Philippines, and the City of Butuan, is themed “Maritime Heritage and Sustainable Oceans.” It aims to explore how indigenous knowledge and maritime heritage can inform sustainable ocean practices and conservation strategies. The event will feature scholarly presentations, cultural performances, art exhibitions, and community engagement, including a theatrical production of “Lawig Balangay,” which premiered in Butuan City in 1987. The conference will highlight research on Cebuano fishing rituals (paghupay), the use of amulets (anting-anting) by boat builders, and tuob-tuob ceremonies, emphasizing the spiritual and cultural dimensions of maritime communities. International keynote speakers, such as Prof. Pierre-Yves Manguin and Terue Yamauchi, will place Philippine maritime heritage within broader Asia-Pacific contexts. The conference will also develop policy recommendations for maritime heritage preservation, create educational materials, and establish collaborative research programs. Prof. Cynthia Zayas noted that this partnership model transcends traditional boundaries, producing academically rigorous and culturally transformative events. Aligned with the UN Decade of the Ocean (2021–2030), the conference demonstrates how indigenous knowledge and cultural celebrations can promote sustainable ocean practices. Open to scholars, cultural practitioners, students, and community members, the event will include accessible cultural programs, with registration available at balangay.up.edu.ph. (UP System Public Affairs)
