CELEBRATING the talent of local artists and their valuable contribution to Tagbilaran, Mayor Jane Yap led the City Government of Tagbilaran through the Tagbilaran City Council for Culture and the Arts (TCCCA) and the City Events, Culture, and Arts Office (CECAO) in the culmination activity of the National Arts Month held on February 28, 2023 at the Island City Mall Activity Center.
In her message, Mayor Yap expressed her genuine appreciation for both creative and performing artists and cultural workers.
“We celebrate the artists in our community who have dedicated themselves to their craft and who have made a significant impact on our cultural landscape. These artists have enriched our lives with their talent, their creativity, and their passion for their art,” Yap said.
The notable cultural icons of Tagbilaran City who were recognized during the program were Teodorico Ramasola, Enriquita Butalid, Wincesa Arao-arao, Nila Ytac, Veronica Gabo and Eduardo Galan.
The event also showcased a Fashion Show featuring the creations of widely acclaimed designer Shanon Pamaong, accessories guru Christine Virtucio and the creative upcycled bags of the City Livelihood and Community Development Unit.
After which, the following fashion models were awarded: Male Category – Jerryco Penales (1st Place), Reinier Antonee Nuñez (2nd Place), Christian Jungao (3rd Place) and Female Category – Stephanie Ann Sumagaysay (1st Place), Niane Mae Dante (2nd Place), and Christine Kaith (3rd Place).
Giving importance to our local dialect and culture, a Balak competition was also held in the same venue. Edwin Cancio bagged the first place while Maricris Naje and Ma. Janica Delusa won the 2nd and 3rd place, consecutively.
On the other hand, visual arts was also highlighted the culmination activity with a Body Painting contest and the winners are Mark Virgel Daohog (1st Place), Anna Julia Rosario (2nd Place) and Joey Patayon (3rd Place).
The City Government of Tagbilaran is thankful to the participating exhibitors for displaying Tagbilaran’s best products and works of art — Shanon Pamaong Creations, Charlow Arbasto, Christine Virtucio fashion accessories, CLCDU upcycling products, Cecilia Oroc Native Pastries, Dalareich Cacao products, Boholano Visual Artists and Reputana guitar.
The National Arts Month celebration is pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 683 to celebrate artistic excellence and pay tribute to the uniqueness and diversity of the Filipino heritage and culture.
This year’s theme “Ani ng Sining, Bunga ng Galing” aims to immerse Filipinos in diverse cultural expressions and celebrate the bountiful harvest from the Filipino imagination. (Lizlie Butron)