“We have dancers who have won international competitions, known writers in the field of literary arts, recognized musicians and theatre arts performers, painters, and independent film directors,” shared Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Julieto Fernandez during the opening program for the National Arts Month in Paseo del Mar this morning. He urged the students coming from the different schools in the city who gathered there “to know about the achievements of these outstanding Zamboangueños and emulate them.”
Fernandez furthered that the DepED’s K-12 program gives special emphasis to promoting art and creativity among the youth.
Meanwhile, City Councilor Gerky Valesco shared Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar’s message, who commended the Association of Creative and Performing Artists of Zamboanga (ACPAZ), the activity’s prime-movers, as well as the continuous contributions of the local artists in promoting the city, especially after the crisis.
“Your event is an attestation that art is an outburst of creativity, fun and of healing, mending the social fabric that was torn during the state of events that unfolded last September,” Councilor Valesco read. “As we move forward in rebuilding our city, let us work together to celebrate arts and culture because these nourish our souls and brings life to our communities.”
February is celebrated as National Arts Month with several activities lined up for the purpose. Prior to the opening program, schools within the seven-kilometer radius of the city participated in a parade downtown.
The program was marked with a Latin-inspired dance by the Jambangan Dance Troupe, choral numbers by the Tetuan Elementary School Choir, the WMSU Grand Chorale, Drum and Lyre exhibitions by the Sta. Maria, Tetuan and Guiwan elementary schools, and a street dance presentation by the Zamboanga National High School-West.
Some of the planned activities this month include a visual arts seminar and competition on Chabacano comics for elementary, high school and college, a vocal duet competition for elementary and secondary, and a national seminar workshop scheduled on Feb. 19-21.
A cultural show to cap the month-long celebration will be held on Feb. 28 at 2p.m. at the Centro Pastoral in Gov. Camins Avenue.
This year’s theme is “Art on the Edge”, whose objective is to promote the advocacy for cultural identity, celebrate the talents of Filipinos and continue the advocacy for culture and arts education. (PIA9)