Aeta Mag-Anchi Goes Digital with TSU Communication Experts
In a significant step toward cultural preservation and inclusive communication, the Communication Department of Tarlac State University (TSU) has collaborated with the Aeta Mag-Anchi Tribe in Sitio Manabayukan, Capas, Tarlac. The initiative supports the development of sustainable communication strategies and the establishment of a digital presence for the indigenous community.
The extension project, titled “Digital Outreach: Empowering Aeta Mag-Anchi through Social Media and IEC Material Development,” is part of a larger initiative called “AYTLAKAD ING LAHI: Building the Capacity of the Mag-Anchi Community to Achieve Cultural Preservation.” This broader effort is led by the College of Arts and Social Sciences of TSU.
One of the project’s key highlights was the launch of the official Facebook page “Aeta Mag-Anchi Word of the Day.” The page features daily posts promoting indigenous words, expressions, and cultural knowledge. Initially managed by TSU faculty experts, the platform was officially turned over to Aeta community members on May 30, 2025, following a capacity-building workshop. This handover marks the beginning of a sustainable, community-led digital initiative.
“This effort allows the Aeta Mag-Anchi to communicate directly with the public using tools like Facebook that are widely accessible,” said Dr. Francelle L. Calub, Project Head of Aytalakad Ing Lahi.
Ms. Jay Ann L. Pablo, Program Component Head of Culturally Relevant Media, added, “They [the Mag-Anchi tribal members] are the best storytellers of their own experiences.”
This initiative was made possible through the collective efforts and commitment of the following faculty members from the Communication Department: Prof. Maria Fermina Joyce C. Nucum, Prof. Nerissa S. Olarte, Prof. Jazzel Llaneli M. Manabat, Prof. Augusto N. Lulu Jr., Prof. Maricor Cheska B. Santos, Mr. Marco Polo M. Flores, Mr. Jovito Z. Taruc, Prof. Jose Russel S. Arador, Ms. Ma. Teresa D. Madriaga, Ms. Remar A. Salvador, Mr. Derich D. Bognot, Ms. Ma. Katrina M. Rivera, Ms. Liana Faith Q. De Leon, Mr. Dale Calvin D. Castañeda, Mr. Mark Alyson A. Madriaga, Ms. Sherlaine D. Banaag, and Mr. John N. Lanuzo.
Each faculty member played a vital role in training, community engagement, and content production. Their contributions ensured that the project was grounded in both academic excellence and cultural sensitivity.
As the Aeta Mag-Anchi community continues to explore and navigate the digital world, this project stands as a model for meaningful collaboration and self-representation, ensuring that their voices, traditions, and language continue to thrive in a modern, interconnected society.
