Antique province celebrated National Heritage Month on Thursday with a book launch documenting the centuries worth of heritage, tradition and culture that defines the people of Antique.

Antique OIC-Governor Emmanuel Palacios Jr., in his message during the celebration, said it is time for the residents to reflect on their centuries worth of heritage. He also congratulated the Antique Provincial Tourism Office headed by Juan Carlos Perlas for the book “Handurawan,” or Photographs of Antique’s Past.

“Our heritage teaches us the importance of unity, respect, and resilience,” Palacios said.

He said they have to preserve and pass down these values to the next generation, such as through documentation or by writing a book.

Perlas, in his message, said the 144-page book contains photos dating back to the 1800s that were contributed by residents of the province, including those now residing abroad.

“The book is the biggest collection of photos from weddings, religious ceremonies, grand architectural designs of homes, pictures of Antique’s political leaders, and many others,” Perlas said.

Provincial Board Member Dante Beriong, who chairs the committee tourism, said the book captured happy memories of Antiqueños from hispanic to post-American periods that are being passed on to the future generation for them to take pride in their heritage and ancestors.

“In the past, there were only a few privileged people who were able to take a photo and so these are now being shared through the book,” he said.

He said not all could then afford to have a camera or gadget to take pictures that are really valuable. (PNA)