Important Cultural Property (Philippines)

An Important Cultural Property (ICP) in the Philippines is a cultural property that has been singled out from among the entire Filipino cultural heritage for its exceptional cultural, artistic, and/or historical significance to the Philippines. It is given paramount importance and recognized as possessing outstanding value to the nation.

The declaration of a cultural property as an Important Cultural Property is made by the National Museum of the Philippines, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, or the National Archives of the Philippines, depending on the nature of the property. These are referred to as the national cultural agencies. In some cases, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) may designate an ICP if the property falls under its specific purview.

This designation grants the property legal protection under Republic Act No. 10066, also known as the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009. This Act aims to protect, preserve, conserve, and promote the nation's cultural heritage, its property and histories, and the ethnicity of local communities.

The declaration as an ICP signifies a higher level of protection compared to that of a "presumed Important Cultural Property." While all cultural properties are presumed important, the official declaration as an ICP requires rigorous assessment and documentation based on established criteria.

Being declared an ICP entails specific responsibilities for its owners and custodians. These responsibilities include maintaining the property according to conservation standards, seeking permits for any alterations or repairs, and allowing reasonable public access when appropriate. The unauthorized modification, demolition, or export of an Important Cultural Property is prohibited and subject to penalties under the law.

The National Registry of Cultural Property (NCRP) maintained by the NCCA lists all declared Important Cultural Properties and National Cultural Treasures of the Philippines. This registry serves as a central database for managing and monitoring the nation's cultural heritage.

The concept of Important Cultural Property is fundamental to the Philippines' efforts to safeguard its rich and diverse cultural heritage for future generations.