The National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the Philippine National Police signed a new security deal. Both agencies want to protect the nation’s cultural heritage.
The agreement happened on Thursday, September 10. The event took place at Camp BGen Rafael T. Crame in Quezon City.
The deal creates a formal Memorandum of Understanding. This MOU helps both groups stop threats to heritage sites. It targets damage, theft, and other illegal acts.
Leaders from both agencies spoke at the event. They highlighted the importance of their new alliance.
“At first glance, the NCCA and the PNP may seem to have very different responsibilities. One works primarily in the field of culture and the arts, while the other is entrusted with protecting our communities and maintaining peace and order. But at the heart of both institutions is a shared responsibility: to protect what matters to the Filipino people,” said Bernan Joseph Corpuz. He serves as the NCCA Deputy Executive Director for Operations.
PBGEN Jovencio Badua Jr. also spoke about the partnership. He stressed the need for tight teamwork. The police force will help stop actions that threaten local history.
This partnership combines two different skill sets. The NCCA brings cultural expertise. The PNP brings law enforcement power.
The framework gives both groups a clear plan. They will now work together to guard historical sites. The alliance also supports community programs. These programs will build local awareness about cultural preservation.
Key leaders attended the signing ceremony. Corpuz represented the NCCA. Patrick Joseph Lee joined him as the Cultural Properties Regulation Division Chief Administrative Officer.
PBGEN Badua represented the police force. He is the Officer-in-Charge of the Directorate for Police Community Relations. PBGEN Vina Guzman also attended. She is the Director of the Police Community Affairs and Development Group.
After the signing, officials held a closed meeting. They discussed plans for heritage protection. They also mapped out joint operations.
The new partnership shows a strong commitment. Both groups want to save Philippine history. They will use smart coordination and strict enforcement to do it.