Prov’l. gov’t. commits to support culture and arts programs
The Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) is committed to supporting the arts and ensuring that artists have access to the resources, opportunities, and recognition they deserve.
This was the statement of Governor Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado in his prepared message of support read by Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte during the 32nd National Arts Month Closing Ceremony last Tuesday morning at the Ceremonial Hall, 4th Floor, New Capitol Building as the governor was in an official trip to Israel.
Gov. Aumentado said that we will work with you to promote the arts, preserve our cultural heritage, and foster a vibrant and inclusive arts community because it is a living extension of us as a people. It is our pride of place and people.
Aumentado extended his warmest support and admiration for the dedication and hard work of all the artists and art lovers. The governor emphasized that their contribution to the arts is invaluable, and he is proud of their achievements.
He said that we recognize the challenges they face and we are to provide them with the necessary support and resources to help them pursue their dreams and passion in the new regions of the creative industry.
The governor stressed that throughout this month, they have witnessed the vast and immense talent and creativity of Boholano artists from different disciplines. Their artworks have inspired us, and their passion for the craft has reminded us of the power of art to uplift our spirits, bring us together, celebrate our shared humanity, and play a vital role in shaping up our society, Gov. Aumentado added.
Gov. Aumentado also acknowledged the very valuable and inspiring composition of Lyndon Boiser an employee of the Provincial Tourism Office (PTO), the song entitled “God’s Answer” interpreted by the Madrigal Singers and Dennis Gregory which according to him an inspiration to all Boholano artists.
Junjie Daguplo for and in behalf of Vice-Gov. Dionisio Victor Balite thanked and congratulated all Boholano artists for showcasing their talents that bring Bohol in the limelight through arts.
Daguplo said that the Vice-Gov through the Sangguniang Panlalawigan is in all-out support for the development of the culture and arts program in the province.
Sherwin Sapong, Arts Section Head, Bohol Arts and Culture Heritage (BACH) Council in his inspirational message described art as one of the inevitable proofs that we are separated from other creations. Sapong justified by saying “
Imagine taking away art from humanity, we would not be any different from a cow who lives, eventually dies and not leaving a mark, much less give glory to the creator.
Sapong disclosed that during the pandemic, they were not only suffering from physical diseases brought about by the virus but also mental challenges as the effect of the quarantine. Their movements were limited, making them prisoners in their own homes; the anxiety it brings whenever they got colds or when a family member was sent to the hospital. Arts were a means for healing even with restricted social gatherings.
He urged the Boholanos to use our talents and our creativity to honor the ultimate artist which is God. And let us never forget that we are all part of a greater creative force, one that transcends time and space and connects us all, Sapong concluded.
Emerson A. Pinos, Officer-in-Charge, Center for Culture and Arts Development (CCAD) in the provincial government thanked the leadership of Gov. Aumentado and Vice-Gov. Balite for always emphasizing the importance of culture and arts in the creative industries.
Pinos said yearly, various festivities happen to promote the local culture and arts to recognize our local talents that contribute to the richness of the Boholano culture and promote local culture and arts such as music, dance, visual arts, architecture, film, photography, and literature.
He encouraged everyone to be participative, passionate, and more unified artists as talent and skills can create a ripple effect in our local economy.
Argeo Melisimo, Chairperson-BACH Council said that culture and arts should be the front and center of the provincial government programs.
Melisimo stressed that this would create a new direction and with that, we are promoting one solid product which is marketable not only in Panglao but in other destinations.
He said that within this month they will start to revisit the tourism programs in the province. Together we can level up, Melisimo concluded. By Atoy Cosap
