Cuartero, a 3rd class municipality located in the province of Capiz, Philippines, has a rich historical and cultural heritage that spans centuries. It is a place of peaceful and loving people. It has abundant natural resources, fertile lands, and a cultural heritage firmly ingrained in the minds and hearts of the people. Cuarteros ideals and traditions enrich the lives of the people of Cuartero, leaving a legacy of solidarity, resilience, and respect for the environment.  It is a place of hospitality, pride, and opportunity everyone cherishes and calls home (Zahra, 2021).

This study looked into the roots of Cuartero, including its early settlement pattern, socio-political impacts from colonial powers, and the major events that affected the establishment. Understanding Cuarteros development from its progress as a municipality highlights significant milestones in its path to becoming an integral part of Capiz province. Cuartero history plays a significant role in the lives of the people of Cuartero. It is deeply interconnected with the influence of Spaniards and Americans. It has strong connections to local culture and traditions. However, despite its unique history, there is a noticeable lack of comprehensive reading materials that the Cuartero history risks being overlooked and unappreciated.

The history and cultural heritage of Cuartero have also shaped its identity over generations, yet much of this history remained underexplored in formal academic research. As an educator, the importance and preserving the cultural practices had been witnessed. This research aimed to document the historical development of Cuartero, tracing its origin, growth, and traditions that define its community. It also aimed to contribute to the broader goal of preserving the local heritage of future generations, making it an important aspect of cultural education in Capiz (Fairooz et al., 2024).

This study further sought to fill the gaps in the towns historical narrative by systematically documenting its development, and combining historical research with cultural mapping to provide a deeper understanding of its past. This also aimed to provide an in-depth examination of Cuarteros origins and evolution, aiming to enhance historical scholarship while also serving as a useful resource for local residents, cultural practitioners, and policymakers. Through this exploration, the research aspired to support ongoing initiatives in heritage conservation and sustainable development. Moreover, in researchers nearly a decade-long tenure as an educator within the Department of Education (DepEd) District of Cuartero, a significant deficiency in reading materials that emphasize cultural heritage pertinent to local history was observed, which in turn fosters and enriches students sense of identity and pride in their communities. There was also a dearth of accessibility of these resources. Thus, this study was conducted.

This study employed various qualitative research methods to provide a thorough historical overview of Cuartero, helping in the preservation and promotion of its rich cultural heritage.

This used a qualitative research design with document and cultural analysis serving as the primary methodological technique. According to Creswell and Poth, (2018) qualitative research is an approach that focuses on understanding and interpreting the subjective experiences, perspectives, and meanings of individuals or groups. It involves collecting and analyzing non-numerical data, such as interviews, observations, and documents.

This was conducted in the Municipality of Cuartero, Province of Capiz. The data gathering methods comprised of in-depth interviews, cultural mapping, and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with elders, local historians, Araling Panlipunan teachers, Local Government Unit officials, Balay Mapanag (museum) personnel, and religious leaders. 

Document analysis involved looking at old records, photos, and artifacts from places like the Capiz Provincial Library and Balay Mapanag. A total of 30 participants were chosen by purposive and snowball sampling, taking into account variables such as age, gender, education, and marital status.

The study analyzed the data using thematic analysis to find recurring themes and important historical insights. To make sure the data were reliable, interviews were compared with historical records. Visual artifacts, like photographs and maps, were employed to augment historical interpretation. Ethical considerations encompassed acquiring informed consent, protecting participant confidentiality, and verifying data correctness through transcript validation. 

The historical development of Cuartero revealed the significant impact of leadership, religion, and community. Early settlers, guided by the local chieftain and influential individuals such as Anacleto Habana, greatly influenced the settlements development. The towns name, honoring Father Mariano Cuartero, reflects the profound influenced of the Catholic Church on its identity. Historical landmarks, such as the remnants of the first church in Binudhian and Mapanag Bridge, stand as testaments to the past. The towns evolution from arabal (barrio) of Dao to an independent municipality was facilitated by the strategic leadership of Manuel Funa and Pascual Dela Torre, with assistance from national figures such as President Manuel L. Quezon and Senate President Manuel Roxas. Economic sustainability, education, and historical preservation were crucial to the ongoing growth and development of Cuartero.

The result implies that Cuarteros past emphasizes the significance of historical preservation and education. The ruins of the original church in Binudhian and the Mapanag Bridge, which separates Cuartero from Dumalag, served as tangible reminders of its history. Recognizing these landmarks from history would help future generations value the Cuarteros development and promote initiatives to record and appreciate the towns history. Key informants believed that history served not just as a chronicle of the past, but as a framework for understanding a communitys present and future. By honoring its historical foundations, Cuartero can move forward while preserving a strong connection to its origins.

The founding of Cuartero conformed to Clavel, (2021) who emphasized on the importance of Antonio Habana, an influential businessman, in shaping the Cuarteros identity. He was instrumental in suggesting the renaming of Binudhian to Funda. His influence was a significant factor, as he worked deliberately to obtain Dumarao officials support for officially recognizing Funda as part of their town.

The result of the study also coincided with the Profile of Significant Cultural Heritage, Municipality of Cuartero, (2016) which documented the historical development of Cuartero from its first settlement to its formal recognition. Before Spanish colonization, the area was characterized by a dense forest that was habitat to a variety of plants and animals.  The 10 Bornean datus arrived, and Sumakwelan colonizers navigated the Panay River to establish a settlement initially named Binudhian. The community eventually received the name “Mapanag” in honor of a nearby creek. The settlement ultimately evolved into an arabal (barrio) of Dumarao and was subsequently renamed Funda as a result of the influence of a local businessman, Anacleto Habana.

The findings also confirmed that Cuartero was formerly an arabal (barrio) of Dao, as documented in the Agdahanay Souvenir Program, (2017). During the American regime, Cuartero formed an administration in 1890 and benefited from the development of schools, roads, bridges, and other essential infrastructure. Cuartero was classified as an arabal in 1937 due to its proximity to Daos pueblo. The Municipality of Dao was supervised and managed by Cuarteros municipal administration, requiring official business and tax transactions to take place at the Dao Municipal Treasury. With the liberties afforded by American administration, the powerful ilustrados of Cuartero emerged as potential leaders, further changing the towns political and social setting.

This also conformed with the study of Arellano, (2022) which talked about how important clustering was in migration and settlement, which led to the creation of new communities and towns where settlers became the majority. Interconnected families, rather than random migration, led Cuarteros early history and Tacurongs experience with land acquisition and settlement in the Cotabato region. The purposeful land allocation by powerful families, such as the Sanchez and Habana families, was consistent with the organized settlement patterns observed in Tacurong.

The study also highlighted the significant historical, cultural, and religious contributions of key figures in Cuarteros history. It emphasized the leadership and governance efforts of Manuel Funa and Pascual Dela Torre in securing municipal independence, and Governor Antonio Habanas infrastructure projects that improved education and road construction in Capiz. Personal stories, such as Adela Pimentels humanitarian work and Roberto Funas engineering aspirations, enrich the historical narrative. The preservation of local heritage through Torre ni Bobby and cultural advocacy by Sir Ramie Capuyan are crucial for maintaining Cuarteros traditions and community identity. The bravery of Moises Hollite and PFC Dioan Tamayo exemplifies heroism and patriotism.

The studys findings aligned comprehensively with several scholarly works that emphasized the critical role of leadership, governance, and individual agency in achieving local autonomy and municipal development. Rosales, (2015) in Leadership and Local Autonomy in the Philippines underlined the importance of visionary leaders in driving the success of municipal independence. This directly supports the studys recognition of Manuel F. Funa and Pascual Dela Torre as pivotal figures in Cuarteros independence. Their efforts in securing the approval of Executive Order No. 159 demonstrate how strong political will and leadership can initiate significant administrative transitions. Strategic decision-making and ability to unify their constituents. Local leadership and broader governmental structures.

The Antonio Habana Monument, in Veterans Park at the intersection of Hijosa and Venus Streets, was crafted by Arcadio Apolinario Sr., a prominent figure in Cuarteros creative and historical communities. The factual basis was verified by the Profile of Significant Cultural Heritage, Municipality of Cuartero, (2016) which documented its construction and inauguration by Mrs. Maria Garcia Ford, a distinguished supporter of the arts. Her promotion of public art and infrastructure enhancement during the tenure of Mayor Leopoldo Habana aligned with historical documentation. As a result, the study aligned with historical records and offers credible findings concerning the importance of historical commemorations in Cuartero. It underscored the significance of history in influencing government, community identity, and policy formulation; hence, it validated the imperative for continuing heritage preservation and civic participation.

The result supported Clavel, (2021) claim that this perspective by emphasizing Anacleto Habanas crucial role in establishing Cuarteros identity. His involvement extended beyond migration activities, as he was a prominent advocate for the renaming of Binudhian as Fonda. His ability to gain the backing of Dumarao officials was critical to Fondas formal name as part of their municipality. This case demonstrated how leadership, political participation, and strategic influence help a community develop and grow. Habanas participation in settlement building and municipal recognition demonstrates the importance of leadership and community engagement in establishing Cuarteros identity and sustainability. As a result, the historical narratives of Cuarteros history and Clavels findings agreed in underlining the ongoing role of leadership and collaboration in community development.

The study aligned with the findings in Forget Not How Visayan Patriots Won Our Freedom (Panay News, 2023) and integrated Cuarteros recognition of General Esteban Contreras as a vital historical figure. Both highlight Contreras role in leading the resistance against Spanish forces, particularly his founding of the revolutionary movement in 1897 and his leadership in the December 1898 battle in Pilar. The study findings, based on focus group discussions and interviews, further emphasized Contreras bravery, leadership, and close connection to Sinabsaban, Cuartero, under-scoring his influence on local pride and identity. These findings demonstrated the importance of oral histories in preserving cultural memory despite incomplete historical records. The studies collectively advocate for interdisciplinary research, archival efforts, and proactive initiatives by local governments and institutions to promote the legacy of local heroes like Contreras, ensuring their contributions inspire pride and historical awareness in future generations.

The result supported the Profile of Significant Cultural Heritage, Municipality of Cuartero, (2016) which documented how history and infrastructure changed under Leopoldo Habanas leadership. This showed that sustainable development grows through governance, education, infrastructure, and cultural heritage. The studys findings on Mayor Leopoldo Habanas contributions aligned with established scholarly perspectives on governance, leadership, education, and infrastructure development. Rosales, (2015) in Leadership and Local Autonomy in the Philippines highlighted the significance of visionary local governance in driving socio-economic progress. This aligned with Habanas establishment of Cuarteros first high school, demonstrating his emphasis on education as a cornerstone for community empowerment and long-term development. The studys findings on Vicente Fabunas role as a puppet mayor during the Japanese occupation aligned with scholarly works on leadership and governance in colonial and wartime contexts. Reyes, (2019) in Historical Roots of Local Governance in the Philippines discussed the complexities of governance under foreign occupation, where local leaders navigated diplomacy, survival, and collaboration to protect their communities. This perspective validated the studys emphasis on Fabunas strategic diplomacy in earning the trust of the Japanese to safeguard Cuarteronhons.

Furthermore, the study underscored the importance of the Agdahanay and Hinugyaw Festivals in Cuarteros religious, cultural, socio-economic, and educational life. The Agdahanay Festival fostered spiritual commitment and economic prosperity through cultural showcases like the Sayaw (dance), while the Hinugyaw Festival celebrated the towns independence with activities that promoted social unity. Traditional rituals such as Bordon and Luwa (oral mores) along with culinary traditions like Inday-Inday and Baye-baye (native delicacies), preserved Cuarteros heritage and enhanced local economic opportunities. The revival of traditional dances, including Sayaw kay San Antonio de Padua and Escotis, demonstrated the adaptability of cultural expressions in the face of modernization.

The findings conformed with Pelaez, (2020) study, which emphasized the Agdahanay Festival as a unifying event that promotes faith, cultural preservation, and socio-economic growth in Cuartero. Both studies highlight the festivals role in fostering Cuarteronhons (people of Cuartero) faith to Sr. San Antonio de Padua through celebrations such as Sayaw kay Antonio de Padua, as well as promoting hospitality and generosity through community meal sharing. The study supports the idea that the event boosts economic activity by attracting tourists, supporting local businesses, and promoting tourism. The large participation at the celebration demonstrates Cuarteronhons strong cultural pride, which is enhanced by the tradition of residents returning home to join in the festivities. The ritual dances sustained success, despite financial constraints, shows the local government units strong commitment to cultural heritage preservation.

The findings also conformed to the research by Ramos, (2019) which emphasized the role of local festivals in preserving cultural heritage, fostering community solidarity, and driving economic development. Similar to the significance of the Hinugyaw Festival in Cuartero, Ramos highlights how cultural festivals promote social unity through participation, boost tourism, and support local businesses. Both studies underscore the importance of integrating festivals into educational curricula to deepen appreciation for cultural heritage among younger generations. Additionally, they advocate for maintaining traditions through collaborative efforts to ensure the sustainability and relevance of these celebrations.

The findings also support the study conducted by Villanueva, (2020) which highlighted how traditional mourning practices, like Bordon, serve as adaptive approaches to grief by blending social engagement, cultural expression, and emotional relief. Similar to the findings on Cuarteros Bordon tradition, Villanueva emphasized the preservation of oral traditions through storytelling, poetry, and communal activities, which foster unity and interpersonal connections within rural communities. Both studies underscore the importance of documenting and integrating traditional practices into educational and cultural programs to ensure their continuity in the face of modernization, advocating for their role in promoting social cohesion and resilience.

The result aligned with Dayalo, (2016) research, which claimed that many different types of folk literature exist in Capiz province. These types of literature included ambahanon, binalaybay, composo, harana, hurobaton, luwa, paktakon, pamulong-pulong, and sugilanon. Dayalos research indicated that poetry-based folk literature was more prevalent and distinguishable than prose, with paktakon being the most prominent type, whereas binalaybay and harana were the least recognized. The present studys findings on Luwa were under threat due to modernization and changing social settings. The continuing existence of Luwa as an oral poetic tradition shows the Cuarteronhons profound respect for poetry and performance. Bordon and Agwasilis exemplify the adaptability of folk traditions. This supported Dayalos conclusion that Capizeños actively participate in spoken poetry as an important part of their cultural identity.

The findings also conformed to the research conducted by Cruz, (2021) which emphasized the importance of traditional practices like Tangkuris, Patabang, and Paaga-aga as manifestations of the bayanihan spirit in fostering collaboration, mutual support, and unity. Similar to the practices in Cuartero, Cruz highlights how communal efforts address labor-intensive tasks in agriculture and domestic settings while strengthening social connections. Both studies advocated for integrating bayanihan principles into modern initiatives, including education, governance, and disaster preparedness, to promote resilience and sustainable development. These traditions demonstrate the continued relevance of bayanihan in addressing contemporary societal challenges.

The findings likewise conformed to the study conducted by Delos Reyes, (2022) which highlighted the role of traditional delicacies, like Inday-Inday, in preserving cultural heritage, fostering community pride, and promoting social cohesion. Similar to the significance of Inday-Inday in Cuartero, the study underscored how indigenous food practices serve as symbols of local identity while offering opportunities for economic development through culinary tourism and sustainable livelihoods. Both studies advocated for the integration of traditional culinary practices into education and heritage programs to ensure their preservation and relevance for future generations.

The findings also conformed to the study conducted by Magbanua, (2023) which highlighted the cultural and historical significance of traditional delicacies like Baye-Baye, emphasizing their role in showcasing agricultural traditions and indigenous food-processing methods. Similar to the findings on Cuarteros Baye-Baye, the study discussed the challenges posed by modernization and shifting food preferences, advocating for preservation initiatives such as documentation, marketing, and culinary tourism. Both studies stressed the importance of integrating traditional food practices into educational and community programs to ensure their continued relevance and appreciation among future generations.

The findings aligned to the study conducted by Bautista, (2021) which emphasized the cultural and economic importance of traditional dishes, like Lauya, in preserving culinary heritage and fostering community identity. Similar to Cuarteros Lauya, the study highlighted how traditional cooking practices involving locally sourced ingredients connect communities to their agricultural roots. Both studies addressed challenges posed by shifting food preferences and economic factors, advocating for culinary preservation initiatives through festivals, tourism, and education programs. These efforts aimed to sustain cultural legacy while promoting economic opportunities for local producers and enterprises.

The findings agreed to the research conducted by Alvarado, (2022) which highlighted the cultural and historical importance of bamboo cooking methods, like Binakol sa Kawayan, in preserving indigenous food traditions and showcasing resourcefulness. Similar to Cuarteros Binakol sa Kawayan, the research emphasized the role of these practices in reflecting hospitality and community identity. Both studies addressed challenges posed by modernization and shifting culinary preferences, advocating for preservation through documentation, educational programs, and culinary tourism to ensure their continuity and relevance for future generations.

The findings supported the research conducted by Sandoval, (2021) which highlighted the importance of traditional dances, like the Sayaw kay San Antonio de Padua, as expressions of cultural identity, religious devotion, and social cohesion. Similar to Cuarteros ritual dance, her study emphasized how changes in performance, such as adjustments to figures or music, demonstrate adaptability while maintaining cultural essence. Both studies underscored the role of these traditions in attracting visitors, strengthening community pride, and ensuring continuity through educational initiatives and cultural preservation programs. Collaborative efforts and supportive policies are highlighted as essential in safeguarding such intangible cultural heritage for future generations.

The findings aligned to the research conducted by Abella, (2020) which emphasized the significance of traditional folk dances, like Escotis, as integral expressions of cultural identity and historical narratives. Similar to Cuarteros Escotis, the study highlighted the blending of Spanish and indigenous Filipino influences and the importance of vibrant movements that capture the spirit of cultural integration. Both studies advocated for preservation strategies, including workshops, festivals, and inclusion in educational programs, as effective means to sustain these dances and ensure their appreciation by future generations. The studies emphasized the role of community efforts in maintaining the cultural and artistic legacy of traditional dances.

The results of this study also conformed to Lam, (2021) who emphasized the complexities of cultural preservation amid globalization, highlighting the need for adaptive and community-driven strategies. This study underscored the importance of cultural programs and activities in safeguarding Cuarteronhons (people of Cuartero) heritage, reinforcing Lams argument that cultural preservation contributes to global understanding, sustainable development, and human identity. The recognition of schools, community events, and youth participation as key factors in maintaining cultural traditions aligns with Lams assertion that protecting cultural identities requires comprehensive approaches. The study also pointed out problems like cultural homogenization and power imbalances. This backs up Lams view that these issues need institutional support, education, and ethical considerations to be fixed in a way that protects cultural heritage and gives local communities more power.

Additionally, the study revealed that the Special Program in the Arts (SPA) at Cuartero National High School was crucial for protecting and enhancing local culture. Organized training programs enable students to engage in cultural activities without disrupting their regular classes. Despite challenges like limited enrollment and physical readiness, the SPAs integration into educational and social activities, along with its collaboration with national cultural organizations, underscores its importance in preserving traditions. The study emphasized the need for mentorship, community engagement, and structured programs to foster cultural awareness among youth. Effective leadership and educational curricula that reflect local history and traditions are vital for ensuring the continuity of Cuarteros heritage.

The results of the study aligned with Erni, (2019) study. Both studies highlighted the importance of curriculum, facilities, and budgetary support for the effective implementation of the Special Program in the Arts (SPA). They emphasized the need for enhanced recruitment efforts and capacity-building programs to address issues such as limited enrollment and students physical readiness. The integration of SPA in educational and social activities, along with its affiliation with national cultural initiatives like those from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), underscores its significance in preserving local traditions. Both studies indicated that SPA needs more institutional support, better training, and more chances to work together and do research to strengthen its influence and make sure it stays important for preserving culture and improving education.

The results of the study also conformed with Robertson, (2018) perspective on the importance of local history. Robertson emphasized that local history focuses on a specific region, making the site itself the primary subject of inquiry. This approach contrasts with broader historical writing, which often uses locations as mere backdrops for narratives centered on processes, events, groups, or individuals. In local history, the term "place" refers to a residential space imbued with significance, shaped by individual and communal ties, and regarded as "home." The results fit with the studys focus on how mentorship, exposure, and active participation can help protect Cuarteros cultural heritage. It showed how important it is to understand and value local traditions and practices in order to maintain a strong sense of community and identity.

The results of this study aligned with that of Arao, (2020) study, which emphasized the role of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) as the primary policymaking and coordinating agency for culture and the arts in the Philippines. The study aligned with the objectives of the Cultural Mapping Program, which assists Local Government Units (LGUs) in documenting and preserving cultural heritage. This studys focus on getting young people involved, keeping records, and getting help from institutions supports the ideas in Republic Act No. 10066. That law says that local governments must keep track of cultural properties and teach about them in schools and communities. This study adds to Araos argument that structured programs and policies are needed to keep cultural heritage alive for future generations by showing how important hands-on learning is to cultural preservation. The findings conformed to the study conducted by Dayalo, (2018). This research emphasized the importance of oral traditions in preserving the cultural identity of Capiz, including Cuartero, by documenting narratives that reflect the values, practices, and attitudes of the community. Dayalos study highlighted the role of storytelling, myths, and legends in fostering a sense of identity and continuity among generations, which aligned with the findings on Cuarteros traditions like Bordon, Luwa, Tangkuris, and others. Both studies underscored the significance of cultural preservation through education, community involvement, and the integration of local heritage into public programs to ensure its relevance and appreciation for future generations.

Another study that aligned with the findings was the research conducted by Kilat, (2022). This study emphasized the importance of preserving cultural traditions through education, community involvement, and innovative strategies. It highlighted how traditional practices, such as weaving, can be safeguarded by integrating them into educational programs and promoting them through modern platforms. Similar to the findings on Cuarteros cultural heritage, this study underscored the role of collaboration between schools, local governments, and cultural bearers in ensuring the continuity and relevance of cultural traditions for future generations.

The results of this study corroborated with Torres, (2015) by highlighting the significance of localization and contextualization in education, especially regarding cultural preservation. Integrating local history, traditions, and values into disciplines such as Araling Panlipunan, Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health (MAPEH), Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao (ESP), and Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) augments students cultural awareness and historical consciousness. Employing experiential learning strategies, like dramatization, reading materials, and scouting activities, enhances the significance of cultural education, rendering it more interesting and impactful. Torres emphasized that integrating curriculum content to local knowledge and resources enhances adaptability, engagement, and alignment with students real-world experiences. Additionally, both studies underscored the necessity of collaboration among educators, local historians, and policymakers in institutionalizing cultural education. Developing culturally relevant educational resources helps in the preservation of traditions and promotes student engagement in heritage conservation. The integration of indigenous resources in Araling Panlipunan and other topics enhances students connection to their cultural heritage. Contextualized education enables students to interact with their local environment, thereby enriching their learning experience and preserving cultural heritage for future generations.

The findings conformed to the study conducted by Fernandez, (2022) which underscored the role of oral storytelling, religious participation, and social gatherings in maintaining cultural identity and transmitting traditions to younger generations. Similar to Cuarteros practices, the study highlighted the importance of elders sharing lived experiences and the integration of these traditions into educational and community programs. Both studies advocated for structured collaborations between schools, churches, and social organizations to promote cultural awareness and ensure that values like respect for elders and historical understanding remain central to community interactions and identity.

The findings from the key informants emphasized two different approaches for preserving Cuarteros cultural heritage: active engagement and methodical conservation. Key Informants statement on participation in cultural events and activities indicates that community involvement was essential for the preservation of customs. Participation in such activities allows participants to appreciate their history while transmitting it to new generations through experiential learning. Key Informant also emphasized the significance of systematic preservation through the documentation of history, the maintenance of artifacts, and the creation of institutional archives inside libraries and museums. This evidence indicates that cultural sustainability necessitates both proactive involvement and systematic preservation initiatives. In the absence of involvement, traditions may become irrelevant, and without preservation, historical knowledge may diminish with time. Therefore, a thorough cultural preservation strategy needs to include education, engagement, and historical documentation, ensuring that Cuarteros history is both actively preserved and carefully protected for future generations.

The findings of this study corresponded with Lam, (2021) ideas on the complex issues of cultural preservation amidst globalizations. Both emphasized the importance of strategic and varied methodologies for preserving cultural resources. This study revealed two principal ways for preserving Cuarteros cultural heritage: active involvement through community participation and systematic conservation through thorough documentation. Likewise, Lam emphasized the significance of advanced and adaptable methods in protecting traditions against global difficulties. Lams identified challenges, such as unequal power, inadequate technology, and the commercialization of culture, back up his claim that cultural sustainability needs moral considerations and community empowerment. In the absence of involvement from the community, traditions risk becoming obsolete, and without systematic preservation, historical knowledge may deteriorate over time. The results of the study and Lams findings support community-based, all-encompassing approaches to protecting cultural heritage. This way, traditions will be remembered and kept alive for future generations.

The result also highlighted the necessity for developing curriculum that integrates indigenous knowledge systems and cultural heritage, especially in disciplines such as Araling Panlipunan or Social Studies. Educational institutions ought to consider establishing legally binding collaborations with cultural bearers to enhance students educational experiences. It indicated that future educational policies ought to advocate for culture-based education that ensures the preservation of heritage throughout generations.

This studys concepts coincided with Torres, (2015) highlighting localization as a fundamental element of contextualization in education. Torres stated that localization means changing curriculum-based lessons to match local resources and information in the students community. Geography, cultural diversity, and individuality are all used to make lessons more relevant. This study emphasized the significance of localized learning in enhancing the flexibility, relevance, and responsiveness of teachings to students real-life experiences and educational requirements. Focusing on Araling Panlipunan as a subject that can benefit from local resources fits with Torress idea that contextualization puts students in real-life learning situations. Through interaction with local resources, students cultivate a profound comprehension of subjects through experiential, hands-on learning. Both points of view agree that cultural and environmental settings should be used in the classroom to make sure that lessons are real, relevant, and in line with students backgrounds. This chapter highlights the significance of culture-based education in promoting substantive learning experiences and strengthening the link between academic material and community heritage.

The insights of key informants underscored the vital importance of education, media, and community celebrations in preserving Cuarteros heritage. Studying local history enhances historical awareness, enabling the next generation to engage with their heritage and value their traditions. Simultaneously, the combination of digital and print media - encompassing social media, television, newspapers, and magazines - functions as an effective tool for cultural transmission, provided that individuals beyond Cuartero remain informed and connected to its history. This highlights the importance of integrating local history and cultural studies within the curriculum, enhancing a contextualized learning experience that cultivates identity and pride. This requires collaboration between schools and local leaders to create accessible instructional materials and media content that emphasize Cuarteros unique traditions. Moreover, by integrating cultural preservation into public celebrations and modern media, Cuartero preserves its heritage and maintains its significance in an increasingly digital and globalized environment.

The findings conformed to the study conducted by Santos, (2021) which highlighted the essential role of education, digital and print media, and public celebrations in preserving and transmitting cultural heritage to younger generations. Similar to the findings on Cuarteros practices, the study emphasized the integration of local history and cultural studies into educational curricula as a way to foster identity and pride. Both studies advocate for the collaboration between schools, local leaders, and community organizations to create accessible materials and media content that promote cultural traditions. Santos also underscores the importance of leveraging modern media platforms to ensure cultural relevance in a rapidly digital and globalized world.

The findings further revealed that education plays a central role in preserving Cuarteros cultural identity by integrating its history, traditions, and values into the school curriculum, fostering local pride and cultural awareness among students through subjects like Araling Panlipunan, MAPEH, ESP, and GMRC. Experiential and contextualized teaching methods, including dramatizations, localized reading materials, scouting activities, and oral traditions, enhance students understanding and appreciation of their heritage, ensuring cultural knowledge is internalized and valued. Beyond formal education, oral storytelling, religious participation, and social gatherings emerge as vital means of transmitting traditions to younger generations, with elders and community members playing key roles in fostering respect for Cuarteros cultural heritage. The findings further emphasize the importance of adapting preservation strategies to modern contexts by employing digital storytelling, gamification, and innovative media platforms to engage younger generations exposed to foreign influences, while also ensuring accurate documentation of Cuarteros history through archives, libraries, and museums. Empowering educators and cultural bearers through training and school partnerships is essential for integrating indigenous knowledge into curricula and creating structured programs that promote cultural practices. Active community participation, paired with collaborative efforts among schools, local government units, and organizations, strengthens cultural identity by combining education, experiential involvement, and systematic conservation efforts. By leveraging modern tools and fostering intergenerational engagement, Cuartero can ensure its rich heritage remain vibrant, accessible, and deeply valued for generations to come.

The findings of this study conformed to the research conducted by Cuartero-Enteria and Tagyam, (2020) which emphasized the significant role of education in preserving cultural identity, particularly among Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines. Their study highlighted the importance of parental involvement in the education of Indigenous children, focusing on communication, learning at home, and financial support as key factors in fostering cultural preservation. Similarly, the integration of Cuarteros history, traditions, and values into the curriculum aligned with the idea that education serves as a meaningful tool for safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting a sense of pride and identity among learners. Both studies underscored the necessity of collaborative efforts between educators, parents, and the community to ensure the effective transmission of cultural knowledge to future generations.

Cuartero exemplifies the harmonious integration of leadership, cultural heritage, and sustainable progress in shaping a communitys identity. Cuartero has forged a path of independence and resilience. Its rich cultural traditions, such as the festivals, legends, and artistic expressions, underscore the importance of storytelling and unity in preserving communal values. Environmental conservation initiatives, coupled with inclusive infrastructure development and socio-economic policies, reflect Cuarteros commitment to sustainable growth. Through landmarks, Cuartero ensures that its historical and cultural legacy serves as an enduring inspiration for future generations. As a model municipality, Cuartero demonstrates how balancing tradition with progress leads to a thriving, unified, and resilient community. Cuarteros dynamic cultural heritage serves as the foundation for its strong community identity, fostering unity, resilience, and development. Festivals celebrate the towns devotion and independence while boosting tourism and artistry, contributing to economic growth. Its traditions reflect the bayanihan spirit, highlighting collaboration and oral storytelling as pillars of social strength. Culinary practices and artistic expressions embody resourcefulness and adaptability, preserving cultural pride amid modernization. Through educational initiatives and collaborative efforts among schools, local governments, and community-driven projects, Cuartero ensures its intangible legacy remains vibrant and relevant. By actively integrating its heritage into public programs and nurturing pride in its history, Cuartero sets a model for other communities, harmonizing tradition with progress to inspire future generations. Education serves as a cornerstone for preserving Cuarteros cultural identity, seamlessly weaving its history, traditions, and values into the fabric of the community. By employing experiential teaching methods and fostering cultural pride through curricula, schools play a vital role in connecting younger generations to their heritage. Beyond the classroom, oral storytelling, religious participation, and community gatherings reinforce the transmission of traditions, with elders and community members acting as key custodians of cultural knowledge. Adapting preservation strategies through modern tools like digital storytelling and gamification ensures relevance and engagement in todays rapidly changing world. Through collective efforts involving educators, schools, Local Government Units (LGUs), and cultural organizations, Cuartero not only safeguards its intangible legacy but also inspires a sense of pride and unity, ensuring its vibrant heritage continues to flourish across generations.

The researcher appreciates those who contributed their valuable support on this endeavor, particularly to the informants/participants, the principals in the District of Cuartero, Capiz State University Main Campus, and Cuartero Tourism Office.

The author affirms that there are no conflicts of interest.