By I. Inojales | 05:55 PM December 09, 2025
The Philippines has formally presented Asin Tibuok—the traditional artisanal salt-making practice of Alburquerque, Bohol—at the 20th Session of Unesco’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in New Delhi, India.
The nomination aims to protect and preserve this centuries-old craft, known for its egg-shaped salt blocks and labor-intensive production process. Asin Tibuok is considered at risk due to the dwindling number of practitioners, modern production methods, and declining interest among younger generations.
By seeking inclusion in Unesco’s “Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding,” the Philippines hopes to secure international support, research, and preservation initiatives to keep the tradition alive.
The Philippine delegation was led by Alburquerque Mayor Don Ritchie Buates.
