The Henry Luce III Library of Central Philippine University, in collaboration with the Sangguniang Kabataan of Barangay Duyan-duyan, Santa Barbara, Iloilo, successfully undertook a significant digitization initiative aimed at preserving local history and cultural heritage. 

After several months of careful and systematic digitization work, the Library formally turned over the digitized copy of the book The Town of Santa Barbara: Its Early Times and Historic Past last November 2025. The initiative was pursued in response to the concern raised by the Sangguniang Kabataan, as the copy in their possession was the only known existing copy of the book. 

Written by Santiago S. Cabigayan, Sr., a native of Barangay Duyan-duyan, the book holds immense historical and cultural value for the municipality of Santa Barbara and its people. Through this collaboration, the partners ensured that this important local narrative is preserved, safeguarded, and made accessible for future generations. 

This undertaking would not have been possible without the steadfast support of the Director of Libraries, Prof. Ma. Cynthia T. Peleña, whose guidance and commitment to heritage preservation were instrumental to the project’s success. Special recognition is likewise extended to the Bahandian Repository librarians, Prof. Vince Ervin V. Palcullo and Ma’am Lyla P. Gonzaga, who led and meticulously carried out the digitization process, ensuring adherence to professional standards and best practices. 

The Henry Luce III Library also expresses its sincere appreciation to the Brgy. Duyan-duyan Honorable SK Chairperson  Vance Raphael Anthony S. Praire for the trust and confidence extended to HLL, which served as the foundation for this meaningful partnership. 

As part of the access plan, the book’s preliminary pages will be made available through the Bahandian Repository. The complete digitized copy may be accessed by visiting the Henry Luce III Library at Central Philippine University, allowing researchers, students, and members of the community to engage more deeply with Santa Barbara’s rich historical past. 

This collaboration underscores the vital role of partnerships between academic institutions and local youth organizations in preserving community memory and promoting responsible access to historical resources.