SENATOR Alan Peter Cayetano underscored the importance of preserving history and heritage, saying these serve as crucial guideposts for the country’s youth and the nation’s future.

Cayetano reminded Filipinos that reflecting on the past helps prevent repeating mistakes and strengthens values passed on to younger generations.

“Ang taong hindi alam ang kanyang pinanggalingan ay hindi makakarating sa kanyang paruroonan. It’s biblical — paulit-ulit po [na binanggit sa] Old Testament na ituro sa mga anak at susunod na generation ang kabutihan ng Panginoon, ang batas, ang tama at ang mali,” he said.

Cayetano noted that no country is flawless, citing the United States as an example of a nation that has acknowledged and learned from its turbulent chapters.

Linking history with tourism, the senator said cultural appreciation can inspire youth to embrace their identity while supporting economic growth. He cited Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano’s efforts to promote heritage awareness among young Taguigueños.

“The younger Taguigueños are, the more we can learn about tourism, especially here in Metro Manila, but we can also do much about improving Taguig as a site for tourism, both international and local,” Cayetano added.

He stressed that strengthening the appreciation of culture, history, and heritage among the youth can help build a stronger sense of national identity and unity.