Book Cover of Plying the Straits: Batel Mobilities in Central Philippines
In celebration of World Maritime Day (WMD) on September 26, 2024, and Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANA Mo) this September, with the theme "Pamana ng Karagatan: Para sa Kinabukasan, Ating Ingatan," which underscores the importance of safeguarding our maritime and archipelagic resources for the benefit of both current and future generations, the AIMS Museo Maritimo is pleased to announce that it will be highlighting both MANA Mo and WMD 2024. To mark this month-long celebration, we are making our publication titled Plying the Straits: Batel Mobilities in Central Philippines FREE and available as OPEN-ACCESS. Access the book HERE.
The book was published by the museum in 2021 in collaboration with Dr. Joefe Santarita, former Dean of the UP Asian Center and Chairperson of the UP-Tri-College Ph.D. Philippine Studies program, explores the crucial role of the sea as a space for the movement of technologies, people, and commodities. Dr. Santarita emphasizes that boats, particularly the Batel, are essential in the study of maritime mobility. In the context of the Central Philippines' island geography, Batel has played a significant role in the region's development.
Dr. Santarita applied the framework of Addo, Hayes, and Peters' concepts of ship mobilities and shipped mobilities to analyze the Batel. Ship mobilities pertain to the sea-going vessels themselves, while shipped mobilities involve the goods, people, and ideas transported by these vessels. The study examines both the mobilities and immobilities of the batel through Creswell’s lenses, including motive force, velocity, rhythm, route, experience, and friction.
By drawing on case studies from 11 municipalities and three cities, as well as historical documents and narratives from boat operators, carpenters, traders, and passengers, Dr. Santarita addresses the longstanding issue that, despite the Philippines being an archipelago, there has been a limited focus on the sea and the pivotal role of boats in the maritime narrative of the nation.
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Enjoy the exploration of our rich maritime heritage this MANA Mo 2024 and follow us for more exciting announcements!
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