The Research, Publications and Heraldry Division (RPHD) is the arm of the NHCP on historical research and publication of materials involving Philippine History and maintenance of historical databank and resource center and blazoning of heraldic items and devices.

Goal/Objectives

“Research is an indispensable tool for realizing the place of the Filipino in history and publication is the path of making known his legacy, his birthright and his future.”

The Research, Publications and Heraldry Division, as a resource center and the lead division in promoting research, publication and heraldry works in the Institute, make sure that historical materials are Relevant – to answer the country’s need of using history as a guide in the present and in the future; Novel – to reveal new historical data and information as well as perspectives that would be useful in the appreciation of history; and Interesting – to generate interest in and promote the study and research of history to encourage others to undertake studies and researches in history.

Functions

The Research, Publications and Heraldry Division performs the following:

1. Conducts researches on Philippine history and prepares biographies of heroes, write-ups on historical events, and translation into English and Filipino of important scholarly works;
2. Publishes important scholarly works on history;
3. Provides research services to the public through the maintenance of a historical data bank and Resource Center;
4. Identifies and marks places of historical significance including historical figures with appropriate historical markers;
5. Prepares all specifications governing the manufacture of heraldic items and devices and supervises the manufacture of these heraldic items and devices including the implementation of the provisions of RA 8491 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations governing national flag specifications; and,
6. Evaluates heraldic items and devices as to conformity to government standards.

Organizational Structure

The Research, Publications and Heraldry Division (RPHD) is headed by a Chief History Researcher who undertakes the general supervision of the RPHD and plans, organizes, directs and supervises the activities of the division.

He is assisted by the Supervising History Researcher who coordinates the activities of the sections to ensure smooth operation and helps in the administration and supervision of the RPHD personnel.

The RPHD is divided into three sections – the Research Section, the Publications Section and the Heraldry Section. Each section is headed by a Senior History Researcher who oversees the work of the section except for the Publications Section, which is headed by the Publication Production Chief. However, the team in each section may assist one another and divide assignments among themselves depending on the workload.

The Research section conducts researches on Philippine history and prepares biographies of heroes, write-ups on historical events, and translation into English and Filipino of important scholarly works of Filipinos and foreigners originally written in foreign languages and identifies and marks places/sites of historical significance including historical figures with appropriate historical markers; It also operates a Resource Center, which provides research services to
the public through a historical data bank. History Researchers undertake the presentation, cataloguing and care of the collection and ensure that readers are provided with the materials they need.

The Publications Section is in charge of the publication of works on Philippine History and makes these important materials available to the public.

The Heraldry Section evaluates and supervises the manufacture of heraldic items and devices as well as the implementation of the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines.

The Finance and Administrative Division (FAD) shall provide support services in terms of human and financial resources management, assets and properties; efficient procurement, storage and distribution of supplies. It shall strictly adhere to sound accounting and auditing practices and be guided by circulars and other issuances of the Department of Budget and Management, Commission on Audit and the Civil Service Commission.

Functions

The Finance and Administrative Division through it’s different sections:

a. extends support services to all the operating divisions and the Office of the Chairman, members of the NHCP Board and the Executive Director; and

b. provides management with the necessary financial information in order to help the other operating divisions in planning, directing and coordinating their programs, projects and activities.

Organizational Structure

The Chief Administrative Officer, who supervises and controls the internal administration of the division, heads the FAD. It is composed of several sections, each under a Section Chief, namely:

1. Planning and Budget Section – assists in the periodic planning and evaluation processes and prepares short, medium and long-term plans of the agency. It likewise prepares budget proposals and allots obligation of funds
2. Personnel Section – administers all personnel matters and promotes human resource development through the implementation of various training programs;
3. Records Section – maintains a centralized records management system
4. Accounting Section – maintains and prepares financial statements and reports
5. Cash Section – takes charge of collection and disbursement of funds
6. Supply Section – procures, stores and distributes supplies, materials and equipment necessary in the operations of the Institute.
7. ICT Section – assists in the formulation of an efficient and effective ICT policy and maintains proper and smooth operations of computer system at the central office and
8. The General Support Services Unit, which is directly under the supervision of the Chief Finance and Administrative Officer, is composed of the Reproduction and Motor pool Services.

Operational System

1. Human Resource

Through the Personnel Section, the Division enforces laws, rules and regulations, administers personnel matters including the implementation of human resource development programs. It makes sure that rules and regulations as contained in the Omnibus Rules on Civil Service are properly implemented.

2. Procurement And Inventory

The Supply Section provides, stores, and distributes supplies, materials and equipment necessary in the operation of the Institution, in accordance with the prescribed government procedures such as:

a. Guidelines in the Decentralized Disposal of Valueless Records
b. Government Electronic Procurement system (EO 40)
c. Government Procurement Reform Act (RA 9184)
d. Standard Operating Procedure for Purchasing and Inventory

3. Financial Management

Financial management is provided by the Accounting, Budget and Cash Sections. These sections institute budgeting controls, prepare budget proposals, maintain accounting records in strict adherence to the prescribed government accounting principles and standards.

3.1 Rates of Allowances for Official Local and Foreign Travels of Government Personnel
3.2 Guidelines in the Release of Funds. (WBC # 463 S. 1999)
3.3 Guidelines in the use of Advice/Authority to debit account (DOF- DBM Joint Circular No. 1-99 S. 1999)
3.4 Revised Procedures in the Payment of Accounts Payable (DBM Circular No. S.1999)
3.5 Appropriations, Allotment Obligations and Disbursement Process
3.6 Laws and Rules in Expenditures & Disbursement

3.6.1 Modes of Disbursement
3.6.2 Non Cash Availment Authority
3.6.3 Tax Remittance Advice
3.6.4 Advice to Debit Account
3.6.5 Modified Disbursement System

3.7 Guidelines in the Granting, Utilization and Liquidation of Cash Advance (Annex T)

3.7.1 Cash Advance for Travel
3.7.2 Bonding of Accountable Officers

3.8 PersonalServicesPERA/ADCOM/RATA/ClothingAllowance/Honoraria/ Overtime/Bonus/Cash Gift/PIB

3.8.1 Leave Benefits

3.8.1.1 Vacation Leave
3.8.1.2 Sick Leave
3.8.1.3Terminal Leave

3.8.2 Monetization of Leave/Service Credits

3.8.2.1 Maternity leave

3.9 Accounting Forms

4. Flow of Transactions

This process is designed to enable the accounting, budget, and cash and supply section staff to properly discharge their respective function responsibilities, roles and to comply with the new requirements of NGAS and E-Procurement System as well as reference of the other operating division in requesting claims.

4.1. Diagram for Processing Claims (Annex W)

4.2 Flow Chart for Processing of Claims
4.3 Workflow for Accounting Section

5. Policies, Office Rules, And Regulations

5.1 Allowable Transportation Allowance
5.2 Attendance to Flag Ceremony
5.3 Discounts on Sale NHCP Publications
5.4 Disposal of Unserviceable Items Located at Shrines
5.5 Distribution of Complimentary copies of NHCP Publications
5.6 Handling of Collections at the Shrines
5.7 Permit to Leave the Office
5.8 Personal Long Distance Calls
5.9 Preparation of Purchase Order
5.10 Rendering of Technical Assistance and Official Attendance to Conferences.
5.11Stay-in Personnel
5.12 SOP for Opening of Donation Boxes

6. Central Records Management

The Records Section takes charge of the centralized and computerized management/keeping of records made by NHCP or receiver by its operations or activities. It undertakes the computerization of records, utilizing document management software and administers the disposal and destruction of the valueless or unnecessary records, following the standards or guidelines for record disposal prescribed by the Records Management and Archives Office.

The Records Officer, who is the Section Chief, serves as Custodian of NHCP records and ensures fidelity of records and files under his care.

With the Congress’ approval of Republic Act 10086 otherwise known as “National Historical Commission of the Philippines Act 2110”, the MRCS has been named as the Materials Research Conservation Division (MRCD). With the following mandate:

Mandate

1. To undertake and prescribe the manner of restoration, conservation and protection of the country’s historical movable and immovable objects;
2. To provide consultancy services to collectors of historical objects that are considered valuable components of Filipino heritage to ensure that preservation, restoration and conservation techniques and procedures are in accordance with the accepted international standards set in protecting historical objects and materials, and choosing the best methods and appropriate materials currently acceptable to Philippine setting; and
3. To enrich and update knowledge on restoration and preservation techniques through scientific research and establishing linkages between the Philippines and various international bodies engaged in the scientific preservation of historical and cultural objects.

Policy Statement

1. The primary function of the MRCD is the preservation of the relics and memorabilia of national heroes and other illustrious Filipinos.
2. It also extends conservation services to government and private museums and individuals. However, they should provide the materials needed in the conservation treatment of their items.
3. Secondary to its function is the materials investigation of movable historical objects and structures,
4. In performing its functions, it shall assume responsibility to the relics/items, to its owners and custodians, to the conservation profession and to the society as a whole.
5. It shall strive to attain the highest possible standards in all aspects of conservation such as document examination, scientific investigation and conservation treatments.
6. In the Commission’s shrines and landmarks, it shall promote the importance of preventive conservation as the most effective means of preserving the collection. On the other hand, it shall perform remedial conservation treatment when necessary.
7. It is responsible for choosing the best possible materials and methods appropriate to the conservation treatments and consistent with the currently accepted practice. Materials and methods chosen must not produce adverse effect on the item on future examination.
8. Finally, the MRCD shall advocate/promote the respect/preservation of cultural properties through conservation practices; through extension of technical services and through the conduct of lectures and seminars.

Nature and Scope of Services and Functions

Laboratory Research and Analysis – functions as support to the Conservation Section. It documents ( to record information concerning the materials, structure and possible cause of deterioration), examines and investigates materials on historic structures and cultural objects prior to conservation treatment. Findings and results will be forwarded to the Conservation and Restoration Section to serve as basis for the implementation of conservation treatment. It is responsible in the evaluation of recent developments in the field of conservation for its feasibility and applicability under local conditions. Relative activities will include sampling and conduct of various experiments and tests on various materials, collaboration in the education and training of museum/cultural personnel in conservation.

Conservation and Restoration – is responsible for the actual conservation treatments/restoration of historical objects and other materials. Its procedures and methodology are based on the result of the tests/analysis performed by the Laboratory Research and Analysis section. It will not be discriminating in the use of new materials and methods but instead will assist in evaluating possible consequences involve in their use.

Education Center – The Division serves as repository of informational resources on conservation. With the Division as member to international conservation organization such as American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works ( AIC) based in USA and Institute for Conservation (ICON) based in England, it regularly receives/acquires scientific books, journals, and technical notes which are shelve in the Reference Library ready to be used by conservators, researchers, students, etc. The Division also organizes lectures and hands-on trainings/workshops in conservation.

The Historic Sites and Education Division (HSED) administers and maintains national shrines, monuments and landmarks and operates interactive history museums. The HSED also takes charge of the conduct of commemorative events and other educational activities to observe birth and death centenaries/anniversaries of national heroes and illustrious Filipinos and historic events with local and national significance.

GOAL/OBJECTIVES

The HSED promotes the ideals of our heroes and other illustrious Filipinos through the administration and maintenance of the various monuments, landmarks and shrines, which house their relics and memorabilia, as museums and venues for learning, and the conduct of commemorative and other educational activities.

FUNCTIONS

1. Maintenance and administration of national shrines and landmarks, including relics and memorabilia of national heroes and other illustrious Filipinos, and objects of historical value in order to perpetuate the memory and emulate the patriotic deeds of our heroes;
2. Commemoration of birth and death anniversaries of national heroes and illustrious Filipinos and significant historical events at various shrines and landmarks, to inculcate the positive values that the Filipino people, most especially the youth, can emulate;
3. Commemoration of milestone historical events with national significance and encouragement of public awareness on the importance of these events;
4. Management of shrines and landmarks as resource centers and conduits between national government agencies and local government units, non-government agencies, civic organizations and stakeholders;
5. Conduct of historical educational activities such as lectures, seminars, exhibits, workshops, patriotic tours, video showing, historico-cultural contests,,,,, and learning sessions, whether formal, non-formal or informal, in accordance with the Philippine Cultural Education Plan;
6. Establishment of an index of knowledge on history and culture at the various NHCP-managed shrines and landmarks for information dissemination to the public sector; and
7. Preparation of historical educational materials such as press releases, feature articles and short essays on activities at NHCP shrines and landmarks, historical events, sites and eminent personages to help popularize Philippine history in the mass media and other venues and through information.
8. Organize and strengthen various historical committees and associations (i.e. provincial, city, municipal, institutional, etc.), private or public, as active partners in the dissemination of significant historical events and personalities at the grass roots level.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

The Historic Sites and Education Division is headed by the Chief Historic Sites Development Officer who is assisted by the Supervising Historic Sites Development Officer.

The Historic Education Section is tasked to prepare, organize, plan, integrate and implement historico-cultural and educational programs, lectures, symposia, conferences, round-table discussions, local or national contests such as extemporaneous speech, essay writing, poem reading, etc. all related to the observance and commemoration of the birth and death anniversaries of national heroes and illustrious Filipinos, including the centennial/milestone celebrations of important or major historical events (local or national);

The Historic Sites Section is tasked with the administration and maintenance of the various national shrines, monuments and landmarks namely:

1. Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo
2. Museo ni Baldomero Aguinaldo
3. Museo nina Marcela Mariño at Felipe Agoncillo
4. Museo ni Leon Apacible
5. Museo ng Paglilitis ni Andres Bonifacio
6. Museo ni Marcelo H. Del Pilar
7. Museo ng Katipunan
8. Museo ni Juan at Antonio Luna
9. Museo ni Apolinario Mabini – PUP
10. Museo ni Apolinario Mabini Tanauan
11. Museo ni Ramon Magsaysay
12. Museo ng Republika ng 1899
13. Museo ni Miguel Malvar
14. Museo ng Kasaysayang Pampulitika ng Pilipinas
15. Museo sa Ilalim ng Lupa ng Nagcarlan
16. Museo ng Kasaysayang Panlipunan ng Pilipinas
17. Museo ni Manuel Quezon
18. Museo ni Jose Rizal, Calamba
19. Museo ni Jose Rizal, Dapitan
20. Museo ni Jose Rizal, Fort Santiago
21. Museo ni Jesse Robredo