“ALL forms of art and culture should be front, back, and center in good governance,” said the Bohol Arts and Cultural Heritage (BACH) Council chair Argeo Melisimo in the National Arts Month Closing Ceremony on Tuesday.
The Provincial Government of Bohol’s month-long celebration of National Arts Month ended today, February 28, with a closing ceremony recognizing local talents in music, visual arts, dance, and poetry.
Held at the New Capitol Building’s Ceremonial Hall in Tagbilaran City, the closing ceremony was a culmination of events organized by the Center of Culture and Arts Development for February to promote artistry and pay tribute to local artists and their contributions to preserving the Boholano heritage.
Attendees witnessed various singing and dance performances by Boholano Artists, with Harana performed by Joseph Gara, Balak by Bryan Labastilla, Balitaw performed by Rey Michael Cosmot and Claudine Ancog, with accompaniment by RancyJun Macabani, and culture dances by Diwanag Theater and Dance Troupe of Holy Name University.
Boholano Mixed-Media Artist Geovanni Abing received an award from PGBh, presented by CCAD OIC Emerson Pinos, BACH Council Chair Argeo Melisimo, and Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte, recognizing him as the 2022’s Exemplary Boholano Artist for his work. Abing is a self-taught artist who upcycles discarded materials, such as magazines, prints, and old books, creating bright-colored collage artworks.
Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte, who represented Governor Aris Aumentado at the event, gave a message on the importance of empowering local artists, incorporating arts into good governance, and further assured that PGBH will support Boholano artists by creating more avenues and opportunities for their works of art to gain recognition.
“Throughout the month of February, we have witnessed the vast talents of Boholano artists coming from different disciplines. Your artworks have inspired us, your performances have moved us, and your passion for your craft reminded us of the power of art, uplifting our spirits and letting us come together to celebrate our humanity,” Caberte said.
She added that PGBh, through CCAD and the BACH Council, commits to supporting local artists with resources, opportunities, and recognition in fostering a strong arts and cultural community in the Province. (PiMO/GMC)
