The National Arts Month celebration in Bacolod City opened Feb. 26 at SM North Block, on the theme “Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Giting”.
Led by the city government, through the Bacolod City Tourism Office, the celebration is anchored on this year’s celebration of creativity and cultural expression, with the opening program attended by local artists, students, performers, and cultural advocates in a vibrant showcase of Bacolod’s thriving arts community.
Representing Mayor Greg Gasataya during the opening ceremony was executive assistant Princess Ella Olmilla. The event was also graced by Vice Mayor Claudio Jesus Puentevella, along with councilors Jason Villarosa and Celia Flor, who expressed their support for initiatives that strengthen the city’s cultural and creative landscape.
The opening program was joined by various artists from Bacolod, who proudly presented their exhibits and artworks, transforming the venue into a dynamic space of artistic expression and inspiration.
Their participation highlighted the vital role of local creatives in shaping Bacolod’s identity as a center for arts and culture, the Bacolod City Tourism Office said in a press release.
As part of the three-day celebration, day 1 featured a painting workshop participated in by more than 60 students from ETCS 1, representing different grades and sections. The activity provided young artists the opportunity to explore their creativity and enhance their skills under guided instruction.
In the afternoon, a painting contest gathered participants from various schools, showcasing emerging talent and artistic excellence.
Today, a mural painting activity will take place along Burgos Avenue, bringing together local artists to transform public spaces into meaningful visual expressions of culture and community. A free theater workshop will also be conducted to nurture aspiring performers and provide them with a platform for creative learning and artistic development.
The celebration will culminate on Feb. 28, with a cultural show at SM North Block, starting at 3 p.m. More than 20 performing groups are expected to present a diverse range of performances that reflect Bacolod’s rich cultural heritage and artistic vibrancy.
Through this three-day celebration, the Bacolod city government reaffirms its commitment to supporting the arts as a vital component of tourism development, cultural preservation, and community engagement. ||
