Former three-term Senator Loren Legarda announced the opening of Likha-an: Lundayan ng Tradisyonal na Sining at Kultura in this photo taken in 2019.
MANILA, Philippines — Senatorial candidate Loren Legarda wants to boost the promotion of Philippine arts and culture to arouse the Filipinos’ sense of identity and nationalism.
Legarda credited the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and other government agencies, private and civil society organizations for organizing events and activities that highlight the artistic brilliance of the Filipinos every February in line with the National Arts Month.
She also urged the government to regularly showcase the art and culture of the country through art fairs, exhibitions, and workshops.
“I hope that we continue this [Promoting Philippine arts and culture] even after the monthly celebration held in February to provide space for our Filipino artists to showcase their skills and nurture future talents,” Legarda said in a statement.
“I also wish that we continue to support our indigenous groups who have shown us traditional and indigenous arts and practices that form part of our culture and identity as a Filipino.”
Legarda, a three-term Senator, also encouraged the Filipinos themselves to further promote Philippine arts and culture.
She encouraged everyone to participate in various activities that feature the country’s rich artistry and cultural heritage.
“Tayong mga Pilipino ay sadyang malikhain [We Filipinos are naturally creative] Our love for the arts is immeasurable, and this can be seen from our ancestors’ works. We have to promote it as well as embrace it. The world needs to know more about Filipino culture and artistry — our own identity.”
Legarda, a strong advocate for Philippine art and culture, has supported several programs, projects, and events to showcase Filipino creativity, including the National Arts and Crafts Fair organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Manila FAME organized by the Center for Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM).
Legarda has likewise co-authored House Bill 10657, which aims to promote patriotism among Filipinos by inculcating, propagating, and conserving the cultural heritage and treasures of the country through our indigenous and traditional writing systems.
She also pushed for the strengthened implementation of the Philippine Tropical Fabrics Law, which she principally authored, as it seeks to expand the tropical fabrics industry and support the local and indigenous weavers and artisans.
The Antique Congresswoman also supported the Schools of Living Tradition (SLT) Assistance to Artisans, and the establishments of weaving, natural dye and processing centers, pineapple farms, fiber extraction facilities, and abaca fiber production all over the country.
Legarda also partnered with the National Museum of the Philippines to establish the “Hibla ng Lahing Filipino: The Artistry of Philippine Textiles”, the first permanent textile gallery that showcases extensive textile collections.
“Arts and culture reflect the identity and history of a community. Having a strong sense of identity is important in ensuring that progress is inclusive and lasting,” Legarda said.
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