A visit to the NVSU Community ReConnect/ReCollect: Reparative Connections to Philippine Collections at the University of Michigan

The Bentley Historical Library and the University of Michigan Museum of Anthropological Archaeology (UMMAA) donated digitized and printed copies of manuscripts and photographs pertaining to the Ilongot community, to be displayed at the Nueva Vizcaya State University “Museo Vizcaino” as part of the ReConnect/ReCollect: Reparative Connections to Philippine Collections project at the University of Michigan.

The visit was coordinated by Dr. Analyn Salvador-Amores of the University of the Philippines, Baguio and External Advisory Board Member of ReConnect/ReCollect program. The University of Michigan delegation was led by Dr. Alexis Antracoli, Director for UM Bentley Historical Library; Dr. Ricky Punzalan, Director for the Museum Studies Program; Dr. Deirdre Dela Cruz, Associate Professor of Southeast Asian Studies and Associate Professor of History; Ms. Diana Bachman, Assistant Director for Researcher Services at the Bentley Historical Library; Ms. Jim Moss, Collections Manager of Anthropological Archaeology; Dr. Jesse Johnston, Assistant Professor at the School of Information; and Mr. Orlando de Guzman, a Journalist and Peabody and Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and freelance cameraperson.

The team was welcomed by a Tagem Bugkalot dance performed by members of the NCIP Group, led by Ms. Anabel Flores, Bugkalot Provincial Chieftain.

Prof. Romana P. Dulnuan, Director for Culture and the Arts, led a tour to the Museo Vizcaino housed at the NVSU Library ground floor. It displays a variety of artifacts and collections about the region’s rich culture and traditions.

The official turnover of the manuscripts and photographs was held at the function hall of the Nueva Vizcaya State University, on August 17, 2023. The said event was also attended by Hon. Sergio G. Bagasao, Municipal Mayor of Bayombong; Atty. Jose V. Gambito, Governor, Province of Nueva Vizcaya represented by Officer-in-Charge, Board Member, Roland Carub; Members of the NCIP group, NVSU officials headed by the University President, Dr. Wilfredo A. Dumale Jr., along with Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Elma P. Apostol; Vice President for Research, Extension and Training, Jonar I. Yago; Vice President for Administration and Finance, Christine R. Salvosa; Director for International Affairs, Atty. Regine Karla G. Tabas; Deans of various colleges and Staff.

This event not only enriches the Museo Vizcaino but also symbolizes the value of collaboration in preserving and honoring diverse cultural traditions for present and future generations.

Maraming salamat po!