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| (Image Source: Batangas Art Scene/Lipa Actors Company) |
The provincial government of Batangas, through its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), joins in on the observance National Arts Month throughout the month of February by drumming up interest in the works of Batangueño artists as well as the province’s traditional goods in order to stimulate local economy. According to PTCAO's Division Head of Culture and Arts Amado Hagos in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA), National Arts Month provides the perfect opportunity to spotlight Batangas’ rich cultural heritage and its indigenous products.
Hagos noted that the provincial government will be supporting several events that recognize local artists who have excelled in their respective fields as part of the month-long celebration. An awarding ceremony for local artists is set to happen on February 27, 2024 to be followed by a film directing with Gabriel Malvar, a Dangal ng Batangan awardee and a film showing from Kidlat Tahimik’s advocacy. “It will be the first 'Gawad Kumintang Para sa Sining' to recognize local artists who have made an impact in their respective fields of arts including architecture, dance, theatre, music, visual arts, media arts, and literature,” said Hagos. The Batangas History Society will also be conducting "Unang Pandayan" to plan, research, and share knowledge about the history of the province. Hagos said the society is very important because they are an organized board consisting of historians, writers, and academicians to strengthen programs that will promote local culture and heritage to locals and tourists alike. He added that the group has organized consultative meetings with the research centers of colleges and universities in the province last year.
Meanwhile, Hagos said the Batangas Culture and Arts Council has been active in strengthening its network with local artists, paving the way for the forming of many art groups. He said local artists are mainstays in provincial government events as encouraged by Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas while cultural mapping of local government units (LGUs) is also ongoing. “I hope we celebrate art every day because being involved, engaged, and appreciative of it helps us ease the burden of life,” said Hagos. Likewise, the provincial government's “Lokal Eh!” program is helping showcase Batangas products like the "barong tagalog", "balisong", "habing-Ibaan" and local food like tamales and suman. Hagos is urging local government units to take advantage of the inflow of tourists in their jurisdictions to aggressively promote their traditional products. He cited the establishment of "pasalubong centers" in Taal, Ibaan, Lobo, and Batangas City which has generated much attention to the production of local cottage industries.
(With words by Pot Chavez, Philippine News Agency)
