Archaeology has been perceived as a discipline where experts are the authority of the past, often overshadowing local and Indigenous interpretations of history. However, archaeology is undergoing a transformative shift. Many archaeologists now understand that descendant communities are not passive recipients of archaeological insights but active collaborators and custodians of their own histories. This talk will showcase Acabado’s work in the Philippines where community engagement is foundational, not an afterthought. At sites like the Ifugao Rice Terraces and Bicol, methodologies weave in local knowledge, skills, and traditions, offering a layered understanding of the past. Furthermore, community involvement promotes a renewed sense of ownership and pride in local cultural heritage. It is a reciprocal relationship: archaeologists achieve richer interpretations, while communities strengthen their historical narratives. Join us in exploring the intersection of community and archaeology in the Philippines and discover how genuine collaborative research can reshape an entire discipline.