The SOCSKSARGEN Librarians Association, Inc. (SOCOLA) successfully conducted its 2025 Seminar and General Assembly on July 17, 2025, at the Saint Marcellin Champagnat Hall, Notre Dame of Marbel University, City of Koronadal. With the theme “Guardians of Heritage: The Role of Libraries in Sustaining Cultural Identity and Indigenous Knowledge,” the event gathered librarians, educators, and cultural advocates across the region to explore how libraries continue to safeguard knowledge and identity in today’s rapidly changing digital age.

Representing the Santo Nino College Foundation, Inc. (SNCFI) were Dr. Jun Yang Badie, PhD, Academic Director, and Mr. Justin J. Feca, RL, SNCFI Librarian. Their presence underscored the institution’s strong commitment to advancing the role of libraries as custodians of heritage, champions of lifelong learning, and partners of indigenous communities. Their participation also highlighted SNCFI’s dedication to aligning academic leadership with the practical work of librarianship, ensuring that the school continues to bridge the preservation of knowledge with sustainable development.

A key highlight of the event was the lecture of Dr. Jun Yang Badie, who emphasized that libraries are not simply storehouses of books but living sanctuaries of memory, language, and meaning. He stressed the indispensable role of libraries in preserving indigenous narratives, sustaining cultural identity, and inspiring intergenerational connections. His message reminded participants that libraries are powerful cultural institutions capable of guiding communities through change while keeping them rooted in their identity.

The assembly fostered active dialogue and collaboration among participants, encouraging librarians and educators to embrace their mission as stewards of indigenous knowledge and as advocates for inclusive, culturally vibrant communities. The discussions strongly reflected the values of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Libraries, as was highlighted, contribute directly to the promotion of quality education by fostering lifelong learning opportunities and advancing cultural literacy.

They also play a vital role in sustaining cities and communities by serving as cultural anchors and centers of memory. Ethical stewardship and inclusivity, which are at the heart of peace, justice, and strong institutions, were echoed throughout the event, while the spirit of partnership was strengthened through networks built among librarians, schools, and indigenous communities.

For SNCFI, active representation in SOCOLA’s initiatives reaffirms the school’s mission of education with purpose—deeply rooted in heritage, culture, and sustainability. With the leadership of Dr. Jun and the participation of Mr. Feca, SNCFI continues to stand as a strong advocate for the role of libraries in shaping not only knowledge but also cultural identity and community empowerment.

The 2025 SOCOLA Seminar and General Assembly concluded with a renewed call to action: to recognize libraries as guardians of heritage and partners in building a sustainable future for generations to come.