BukSU Fulbright Scholar finds meaning and humility in diving deep into Bukidnon culture

“It was a humbling experience and a growing experience at the same time. As a person, I gained meaning. As a public servant, I gained humility.”

These are the words of Ms. Loreta Sol L. Dinlayan, Director of the Bukidnon State University-Bukidnon Studies Center, describing her 4-month Fulbright scholarship experience in the final half of 2024 as a Scientific Affiliate at the Collections Center of the Field Museum, Chicago, Illinois.

The Field Museum boasts a vast collection of over 30 million artifacts, including 10,000 objects from the Philippines – the largest in the Western Hemisphere. This diverse collection spans textiles, adornments, weapons, and more, primarily gathered during early 20th-century expeditions. It has since grown through donations from soldiers and private collectors, and now includes contemporary items collected in collaboration with communities in the US and the Philippines.

Immersed in the study of material culture preservation and museum management, Dinlayan returned with a broadened perspective on her field and a renewed passion for its advancement, recognizing the immense responsibility entrusted to her in safeguarding and sharing the cultural heritage of Bukidnon.

Now back in BukSU, Ms. Dinlayan is poised to integrate the knowledge and skills she gained into the university’s initiatives. In this Q&A, she shares her experiences, insights, and aspirations for the Bukidnon Studies Center and beyond:

• Can you share more about what you studied during your Fulbright program?

“With the generous guidance of Jamie Kelly, the Anthropology Collection Manager of the Field Museum, I gained access to exploring the Fay-Cooper Cole’s collection of artifacts from the Philippines, specifically from the Province of Bukidnon. By identifying 60 artifacts, I got additional glimpses into the people and culture of indigenous peoples in Bukidnon during the early 1900s. With the data I collected, I produced a manuscript of material culture in preparation for producing a coffee table book on Bukidnon artifacts. This book will be added to the list of references intended for those researchers, faculty, and students interested in studying Bukidnon culture.”

• What were some of the biggest personal and professional takeaways from your time on the Fulbright?

“Through my exposure to the grand features of the Field Museum, I gained insights into trends and styles in presenting exhibitions and preserving artifacts. I listed down ideas on how to improve the content of the Bukidnon Studies Center and how to expand its coverage and partnership with other institutions.

Through my access to the collections of the Field Museum, I am more encouraged to conduct research. The data I acquired are good enough to produce a number of research on material culture and indigenous knowledge.

It was a humbling experience and a growing experience at the same time. As a person, I gained meaning. As a public servant, I gained humility.”

• Looking back, what were the toughest parts of your Fulbright experience? How did you cope?

“Since Day 1 of my Fulbright experience in Chicago, I met challenges – culture shock (I’m not a techie), homesickness (my longest travel away from home), unfavorable temperature (Chicago is freezing), and language barrier (I cannot understand well fast/slang English talker). However, I met friends along the way which made my journey a bit easier. I was accommodated by a small church on Sundays. Crews from Jollibee, Thai, Japanese and Taiwanese restaurants or coffee shops satisfied my craving for Asian food. They were my unsung heroes in this journey added to Frances and the IIE Team, the Field Museum staff, and the Fulbright Chicago.

I also took time to connect myself with the Fil-Am community in Chicago by visiting the Rizal Center and joining some activities.”

• What is the learning integrated into development initiatives for further sustainable and equitable outcomes for the Bukidnon Studies Center?

“As the Director of Bukidnon Studies Center, I will have a bit to overhaul the content and mechanics of managing a study center and make improvements on providing services to its stakeholders. The year 2025 is a good start for the 2^nd phase of Bukidnon Studies Center – the production of more materials on Bukidnon studies. Within the first quarter of 2025, the coffee table book is set to be published after its validation through the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and after its registration in the National Library. As part of the indigenous cultural communities in Bukidnon, I will continue to spearhead and support advocacy that promotes the well-being of the indigenous communities, especially that of the youth.”

• What encouragement would you offer to other scholars who want to make a difference through their work in culture and development?

“I encourage cultural workers to have more collaborative projects with other organizations, LGUs, and institutions. Advocating culture and development is easier if there are initiatives for forging a partnership.”

• Did anything about Bukidnon culture make you feel especially connected to home while you were studying in the US?

“The values of kagtahud (respect) and bansa (honor). I expressed respect to people, to time, to space, and to the Bukidnon items I worked on. I did my task throughout my study, with integrity. For my personal note, my family and the entire indigenous community in Bukidnon where I belonged are grateful to the Fulbright. As I tread back home, I can assure of one thing – I have preserved the good name of my country and my university.”