A Cultural Study Tour by Museum Foundation of the Philippines

A Cultural Study Tour of Gota de Leche, FEU, San Sebastian Basilica
and Bahay Nakpil Manila
4 July 2015, Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Organized by the Museum Foundation of the Philippines, Inc.
Member’s Fee: Php 1,500 / Non-Members Php 1,800
Inclusive of transportation, lunch, merienda, entrance fees and tour guides

Join the MFPI for a cultural study tour of four notable structures in Manila’s University Belt!

Gota de Leche which means “drop of milk” was founded in 1906 to feed children who were victims of the Philippine American War. Its feeding program has continued without any interruption until today. The heritage building designed by the architects Arcadio and Juan Arellano was completed in 1914. The building is modelled after Brunelleschi’s Ospedale degli Innocenti, Florence, and is considered a successful adaptation of Italian Renaissance architecture to the tropics. It has three markers from the National Historical Commission and a UNESCO Asia-Pacific Cultural Heritage Award. Architect Augusto “Toti” Villalon will tour the group here.

Far Eastern University was founded in 1928 as the Institute of Accounts, Business and Finance to enable Filipinos to take a four year course in Accountancy, which was previously unavailable in the country. The complex houses five exemplary Art Deco buildings designed by National Artist Pablo Antonio between the years 1939 to 1950, marking the architect’s personal transition from Art Deco to the International style. For the preservation of these buildings and the blending of newer ones with them, FEU received the 2005 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for Culture Heritage Conservation. Beyond the buildings, FEU also has rare works by other National Artists such as Vicente Manansala, Fernando Amorsolo, Carlos “Botong” Francisco and Napoleon Abueva. Martin Lopez, FEU President's Committee on Culture Director and also an MFPI Trustee will tour the group along with members of the FEU Guides, an organization composed of students from the University’s Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management.

San Sebastian Basilica is one of only a few all-metal churches of this scale in the world, and the only all-metal building in the Philippines. The building’s metal parts were forged in Belgium, transported on nine steamships, and assembled locally in Quiapo. Another notable feature of this church is its original interiors from 1891, one of the last remaining authentic church interiors in the country. The basilica has 56 stained glass windows (over 300 square meters in area) and embellished with over 100 figural paintings, and with background of painted metal in masonry faux finishes. The basilica corroding heavily, which poses a unique set of conservation challenges. The tour is given by Tina Paterno, a conservator for historic buildings. She has spent the last decade as a conservator, including work on the United Nations Complex, Apollo Theater, and Metropolitan Museum of Art, all in New York. She is the Executive Director of San Sebastian Basilica Conservation and Development Foundation, Inc., and is an MFPI trustee.

Bahay Nakpil was built in 1914 on land where two Nakpil houses previously stood. A typical Filipino house, it was built with bricks on the ground floor and wood on the second to withstand earthquakes. From a Viennese furniture set given as a gift by the Prietos to Dr. Ariston Bautista and Dña. Petrona Nakpil, the couple asked Architect Arcadio Arellano to pattern the Art Nouveau / Viennese Secession influence on the mansion. Volunteers will conduct the tour. 

Proposed Itinerary
8:00 am Call Time, Sanctuario de San Antonio Church, Forbes Park, Makati City
8:30 am Leave Makati
9:30 am Arrive at Gota de Leche Heritage Building, S.H. Loyola Street, Sampaloc, Manila
10:30 am Leave Gota de Leche; Walk to FEU
11:00 am Arrive at FEU, N. Reyes Street, Sampaloc, Manila
12:00 nn Lunch in FEU
1:00 pm Leave FEU; Go to San Sebastian
1:15 pm Arrive at San Sebastian Basilica
2:45 pm Leave San Sebastian
3:00 pm Arrive at Bahay Nakpil; Tour
4:00 pm Merienda at Bahay Nakpil
5:00 pm Leave for Makati
6:00 pm ETA Makati

For more inquiries, call 404-2685 (Elvie Magpayo/Mae de Leon), 697-9509 (Elvie),
or text/call 0949 3338211 (Elvie), 0927 8484680 (Mae). 

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Cagayan de Oro and Bukidnon Cultural Study Tour

MUSEUM FOUNDATION OF THE PHILIPPINES, INC.
Cagayan de Oro and Bukidnon Cultural Study Tour
6 to 9 May 2015
Tour Fee: Php 27,800 for MFPI Members; Php 31,500 for Non-Members

Includes:
• Return airfare on Philippine Airlines with 10 kg baggage allowance.
• Airport transfers and land transportation between tours
• Entrance Fees
• Local Tour Guide
• Tour Leader
• Accommodations for three nights at the exclusive Bukidnon Country Lodge on sharing basis
• Breakfast at the Bukidnon Country Lodge
• Packed lunch for the picnic at the Tuminugan Nature Sanctuary
• Snacks and water between destinations

Does not include:
• Airport Terminal Fee
• Cost of rides at the Dahilayan Adventure Park.
• All dinners. A Menu from the Bukidnon Country Lodge will be provided in advance.
• Lunch at Prawn House Restaurant and the Rancher’s Steak House. Menus will be provided in advance
• Generally, all tips and porterage.
• Excess baggage allowance for the return trip to Manila. It is advised that each passenger request for extra baggage allowance for the return trip especially if shopping for pottery/ ceramics.


PROPOSED ITINERARY

Day 1, Wednesday, 6 May: Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental
Divine Mercy Shrine
Prawn House Seafood Restaurant
The Stoneware Pottery
Capitol University Museum of Three Cultures
Bukidnon Country Lodge

Take a morning flight to Cagayan de Oro City on PR 2521 departing at 9:35 am. Arrive in Laguindingan International Airport at 11:10 am. Laguindingan International Airport in Misamis Oriental serves both Cagayan de Oro City and Iligan City. Collect luggage at the arrival area.

A representative designated by the Bukidnon Country Lodge will meet the group and take them to a waiting van. Before proceeding to Bukidnon, the group will make some stops to experience some of the highlights of Misamis Oriental.

Divine Mercy Shrine, El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental
The first stop will be at the Divine Mercy Shrine in El Salvador, Misamis Oriental centred on a 50-foot statue of the Divine Mercy atop a hill overlooking the Macajalar Bay. The statue is said to be the tallest of its kind in the world and has become an important pilgrimage site. Conversions and healings have been attributed to the Dancing Sun Miracle, which was witnessed by 10,000 pilgrims on the feast of the Divine Mercy on 7 April 2013. There is also a fountain of holy water, which is said to bring about healing.

To enter this religious site, there is a strict dress code and all must be dressed modestly. No sleeveless shirts, shorts, tightfitting clothing. Women in trousers will be requested to wear a sarong or malong around them. These are also available for rent at the entrance. (Website: www.divinemercyhills.ne)

Prawn House Seafood Restaurant
From Divine Mercy Hills, the group will be taken to the Prawn House Seafood Restaurant for lunch. The restaurant is by the sea and boasts of a wide array of fresh seafood. Expect a cool breeze as you enjoy fresh crabs, prawns, shrimps and other seafood delights cooked in different ways. Participants with food allergies or dietary restrictions should give advance notice.

Stoneware Pottery
After lunch, visit The Stoneware Pottery, where fine wares are made with clay from Germany, lead-free glazes and Filipino craftsmanship and expertise. Some of the potters may be working that afternoon and will demonstrate their skills. The store will be open for those who would like to buy a few of their products.

For those who know of the Stoneware Pottery’s excellent work, you may wish to browse through their website www.stonewarepottery.com to select items you may wish to purchase. It will also give you more information on the products at The Stoneware Pottery. Stoneware Pottery supplies hotels and restaurants in the country and elsewhere including the Amanpulo Resort.

Capitol University Museum of Three Cultures
The last stop in Cagayan de Oro but not the least- will be The Capitol University Museum of Three Cultures. It features Mindanao's three cultures of the Maranao of Marawi, the Iligan of Cagayan de Oro and the Indigenous Peoples of Northern Mindanao. (www.cultureight.com/capitol-university-museum-of-threecultures/)

The Museum displays the soil paintings of the Talaandig, one of the seven tribes of Bukidnon. Some of these may be for sale.

Drive to Bukidnon
After the sightseeing in Cagayan de Oro, expect a scenic drive - at least before sunset - towards the Bukidnon Country Lodge in Manolo Fortich, which will be home for the next three nights. (www.bukidnoncountrylodge.com)

The Bukidnon Country Lodge maintains the same warmth and services of a private home and exudes the graciousness of its former residents. It has a large living and dining area, an expansive garden with exotic flora, pathways for strolling or jogging, a swimming pool, two outdoor gazebos and a highly experienced and dedicated staff that will make this a veritable home away from home. The Lodge offers home-made international cuisine, prepared exclusively for the guests. Guests will be asked to make their meal choices in advance to allow the kitchen to source choice ingredients.

Guests will be welcomed at the Lodge by Ms. Paula Perrine. A welcome drink from locally grown pineapples will refresh the travellers. Paula will also give a brief background of the place and the Del Monte story.

The Lodge also has a huge table filled with mats woven by indigenous communities, abaca bags and accessories, hats, Hinebelan coffee, organic peanut butter and other products from the area. Guests are drawn to this table from the first moment they arrive. You can put some products aside until the last day when you would settle your account. Dinner will be served followed by dessert and tea or coffee.

Day 2, Thursday, 7 May: Tuminugan Nature Sanctuary & Plantation Tour
Tuminugan Nature Sanctuary/Hineleban Foundation
Dahilayan Adventure Park
Camp Phillips/Kampo Juan
Bukidnon Country Lodge

Breakfast at the Lodge

Tuminugan Nature Sanctuary
Today will be a day of immersion in nature. Leave the Lodge by 8:30 am for Tuminugan Nature Sanctuary (www.hineleban.org) “Tuminugan” is a Binukid term taken from an epic which tells of a paradise that has sprung from nothing. This paradise image describes a once barren area transformed into a nature sanctuary where a diversity of species of flora and fauna has returned and a rich biodiversity thrives once again.

The Tuminugan Nature Sanctuary is part of the Hineleban Foundation’s initiatives in reforestation and biodiversity conservation in cooperation and partnership with Mindanao’s diverse ethnic and cultural communities. Tuminugan’s tree nursery is dedicated to Hineleban’s rainforestation efforts and has become a model of “Transformational Business Practices” involving indigenous peoples and communities.

Guests will see - among other things - the flower terraces, livestock, demonstration of the Honey-Bee production, the natural Horse Training, the organic vegetables project and go on a comprehensive tour of the 100% Arabica Coffee Production of the Hineleban Foundation. This includes coffee tasting. Learn about the work of the Foundation and its cooperation with the indigenous people of Bukidnon. Artisanal crafts made by indigenous communities that reside in the mountains will be shown and sold here as well as products from the farm.

At the end of the tour, enjoy a picnic by the lake. It is a beautiful place for taking photos and to relax and enjoy.

Dahilayan Adventure Park / Camp Phillips / Kampo Juan
After lunch, finish the Plantation Tour by passing by the Dahilayan Adventure Park. (https://
www.dahilayanadventurepark.com) The Adventure Park is not far from the farm. It is famous for its zipline and other daredevil rides, a major reason for the increasing number of tourists in Bukidnon!

You would descend from the mountain passing through Camp Phillips, the Del Monte Pineapple Plantation in the Philippines. Slers, famous for their ham products, will be on the way. So will the other Adventure Park, Kampo Juan, before returning to the Lodge. Dinner at the Lodge.

Day 3, Friday, 8 May: Monastery of the Transfiguration & Banig Weaving...
Monastery of the Transfiguration Souvenir Shop
Church
Museum
Rancher’s Steak House

Breakfast at the Lodge. At 9:00 am, leave for The Monastery of the Transfiguration in Malaybalay. Arrive in Malaybalay City at 10:15 and stop at the Pines Hotel to use the comfort room. During the drive, more information on the sights of Bukidnon will be given as well as on the vestment collection at the Monastery of the Transfiguration.

Monastery of the Transfiguration, Malaybalay
Arrive at the Benedictine monastery after a further 20-minute ride. On the way in to the Monastery, stop at the Souvenir Shop before it closes for lunch. The shop carries some religious items including small replicas of the statue of Our Lady of Monserrat which is enthroned at the Monastery chapel. Apart from these religious items there are also biscuits, coffee and other products made in the Monastery.

From the shop, the group will visit to the church where one can experience the peace and tranquillity of a sacred space. The pyramid shaped church was the last project of Architect Leandro Locsin.

Visit the Museum of Liturgical Vestments and see the vestment collection designed by Dom Martin de Jesus H. Gomez, OSB (formerly known as Manila fashion designer Gang Gomez). The vestments are made with Philippine textile materials enhanced with indigenous patterns and designs.

It is the result of the work put together for an exhibition at the Ayala Museum in 1999 called “Worship and Weave Towards Filipino Liturgical Vestments.” Dom Martin describes how he “travelled to more than 20 ethnic communities to research on textiles and to guide the production of the design motifs that they (the communities) were willing to accommodate.” The book “Worship and Weave Towards Filipino Liturgical Vestments” gives detailed descriptions of the vestments in the collection. It is available at the Ayala Museum Shop in Makati.

After the visit at the Monastery, the group will be taken to the Rancher’s Steak House for lunch. It is a ranch styled restaurant overlooking hills with horses grazing, a pleasant and charming Bukidnon scene. The menu includes a good choice of meat, chicken, pork and fish dishes. After lunch drive back to Manolo Fortich and the Bukidnon Country Lodge. There will be time for those who wish to refine or add more items to the products they had selected initially from the Lodge’s “shop.”

Day 4, Saturday, 9 May: Departure Day
Leave Bukidnon Country Lodge
Drive to Cagayan de Oro City
Lunch in Cagayan de Oro City
Depart for Manila

Wake up at your leisure. After breakfast, drive to Cagayan de Oro City. Departure time will depend on what you would like to do in Cagayan de Oro City before taking the mid-afternoon flight back to Manila. If you opt for some market shopping for malongs, food pasalubongs and the like in Cagayan De Oro City, departure from the Lodge will have to be timed accordingly. Lunch will be in Cagayan de Oro City.

Depart on PR 2526 at 16:35, arrive in Manila at 18:05.

For inquiries and reservation, please email inquiry@museumfoundationph.org and/or museumfoundationphils@gmail.com. You may also call 404 2685 or 697 9509. Text/call Elvie 0949 3338211 or Mae 0927 8484680. Thank you.

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Filipino Heritage Festival Pampanga Tour

Filipino Heritage Festival Inc.

In Celebration of National Heritage Month 2015

Heritage Pilgrimage Tour on 09 May 2015

PISAMBÁN: Pamangan Caladua at Catauan (Food for the Soul and the Body)

A Heritage Pilgrimage Tour of Pampanga

[by Lord Francis D. Musni]

Pisambán is how the Capampañgans call their massive stone churches built by the natives under the supervision of Augustinian missionary friars who not only gave them the gift of faith but left indelible marks on their culture and language as well. Despite earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, typhoons and floods, and callous neglect, many of these structures stood the test of time and space. They serve not only as houses of worship for their ancestors but has also become vessels of their history and culture, they have become indispensible elements of their heritage. They also stand as proud monuments of their faith and repositories of the best examples of local arts and crafts.

Join us on a pilgrim’s visit not only to pay homage to the gift of faith that lives within these walls but also witness how the people of Pampanga have shown their strong faith in the sheer massiveness and beauty of these structures but also in the cultural treasures abounding in them. Along the pilgrim route, nourish your soul with visual catechetical images in paint, wood and stone, while we take stops to nourish our body with the best offerings of a province touted to be the Gourmet or Culinary Capital of the Philippines. Its cuisine renowned for its rich, elaborate and tasty offerings, is a product of the melding of influences, Malay, Chinese, American but most especially, Castilian, one will easily be convinced that a Capampañgan is not only born to eat but is also born to cook as well.

So come with us on a rare pilgrimage to fete the body and feed the soul.
Tara pu mangadi tamu at mangan! (Come with us to pray and eat.)

PROPOSED ITINERARY:

Leave Makati-Santuario Church area at 7 AM

1st stop :
Gosioco Gardens / Salaria 1849 : Capampangan Breakfast and Tour
San Vicente, Sta. Rita, Pampanga

Commonly referred to as Salaria, the Gosioco Ancestral House is believed to be the oldest house in town, built in 1849. Salaria is one of the surviving homes in Sta. Rita, Pampanga. A historic landmark of the town, Salaria comes from the Spanish word “Serreria”, which means a place for candle making.

Experience the ambience of a traditional ancestral home, see a good collection of beautiful, well- preserved old Capampangan kitchen tools and implements used by the Gosioco household members from generation to generation.

A hearty Capampangan breakfast of empadados, tamales/bobotu, suman tili, pandesal con pistu suclati, and “sopas” – a crispy mammon which is served together with hot soup; thus the term “sopas”.

There will also be a cooking demo of ASADUNG MATUA (Old-Fashioned Pork Asado) – also called Asadong Paski, Asadong Barrio and Abo-abo in Pampanga. This dish is not typically served in restaurants.

A popular local sherbet maker, Paguio’s will serve sherbet at the Salaria. Sta. Rita is renowned for its sherbet which is made under two-types of preparation : a) sherbet for refreshment – thin ; and b) sherbet as dessert – thicker and sweeter.

Lansang Turrones Factory
San Jose, Sta. Rita

Cooking of the nougat starts at 4:00 am. The group can take snap-shots of what we can still catch at this time. Wrapping of the turrones, stretches into the afternoon, and the sans rival is prepared later in the afternoon.

Galan’s Chicharron Factory
San Roque, Guagua

Witness the preparation of Galan’s popular chicharron and see the different variants of chicharron.

Lapid’s Hornong Liempo
See the unique “pugon”-style cooking of the much sought after Liempo at Lapid’s, a popular fare in Western Pampanga.

Parish Church of Santiago Apostol
Betis, Guagua

Betis Church in Guagua is the next stop. It is referred to as the Sistine Chapel of the Philippines because of its hand-painted interior. It also boasts of the finest woodcrafts the town of Betis is famous for. There is a museum on the ground floor of the old convent. The Church has been declared as a National Cultural Treasure (NCT) by the National Museum in 2001.

The town of Betis is also famous for its guitar-making industry. Betis artisans are known to have produced the wooden chandeliers installed in Malacanang Palace.

David Ancestral Home (a few meters away from Betis Church)
The David Ancestral Home is owned by the family of Sociologist Randy David, Atty. Dante David and Bishop Pablo David. See how the Davids were able to salvage their ancestral home from lahar threat by employing “jack-technology.”

Capampangan Lunch : at Henson-Panlilio Ancestral House
Parian, Masangsang, Mexico, Pampanga

Lunch will be hosted by Tita Lilian Borromeo-Lising, a culinary heritage cook. A hearty treat of select
Capampangan dishes, and a tour of the old Capampangan cocina awaits the group.

There will be a cooking demo of heritage recipes like pan de saniculas, dulce prenda and brazo de maiz in an open kitchen filled with ancient Kapampangan cooking tools and implements.

A side demo of traditional tamales/bobotu and suman preparation will be done by Ms. Mhye from Bulaon.

Parish Church of Sta. Monica
Minalin, Pampanga
The Sta. Monica Parish Church or commonly called Minalin Church is one of the oldest churches in Pampanga which was erected by the Augustinian architects and engineers in the 17th century.

Declared as a National Cultural Treasure (NCT) by the National Museum in 2011, the Church is overflowing with artistry and ingenuity as exposed by its retablo-like-facade; significant decors of the Coat of Arms of Bishop of Spain at that time on the base of the window ; escudo of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the main entrance ; lantern like kampanilya and a 1619 mural painting which measures 89 inch wide and 113 inch tall depicting an old map of the town.

The church is also the only one of its kind with intact capilla posas at the four corners of its atrium.

Pottery Shops
Sto. Tomas, Pampanga

Home to many traditional potters, Sto. Tomas is the place to go for its decorative clay jars, classic
earthenware and assorted potteries. Here in Sto. Tomas, where clay remains abundantly available, this ageold art continues to thrive.

Nathaniel’s (JASA) : Merienda and Pasalubong Shopping
San Fernando City

Return trip to Manila, 4 PM

For inquiries and reservations, please contact Ms. Tonie Bautista 0916 4788163 or 333 2215.

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Dayaw Festival in Baguio Highlights Northern Philippines Indigenous Cultures

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the prime government agency for arts and culture headed by its chairman Felipe M. De Leon Jr., will be holding the Luzon leg of its Dayaw 2014: The Indigenous Peoples Festival, touted to be biggest gathering of Philippine indigenous peoples, from October 22 to 23, 2014, in Baguio City.



The two-day festival will feature forums on issues and concerns of the indigenous peoples; demonstrations of traditional crafts and cuisines; recognition of cultural masters; an exhibit of photographs and crafts; and outreach performances of ethnic songs and dances.

The Dayaw Festival in Baguio is organized by the NCCA, the Negros Cultural Foundation, Inc. and the city government of Baguio in partnership with the Department of Tourism - Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR), the provincial government of Benguet, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA-CAR), SM City Baguio, Onjon ni Ivadoy Association, the University of the Philippines Baguio and the Benguet State University.

It will be participated in by indigenous groups of northern Philippines including Gaddang, Isinay, Tinggian, Itneg, Ibanag, Yogad, Itawit, Malaweg, Kasiguran, Ivatan, Itbayat, Bugkalot, Isnag, Kalinga, Ifugao, Ibaloi, Kankanaey, Balangao, Bontok, Applai, Ilocano, Bolinao, Pangasinan, Tagalog, Sambal, Pampangan, Ayta, Agta, Mangyan, Palawani, Molbog, Jama Mapun, Tagbanua, Pala’wan, Agutaynen, Bicolano, Batak and Cuyunon.


The Balangao of Mountain Province

The Baguio celebration is part of the nationwide celebration of Dayaw 2014: The Indigenous Peoples Festival, which will have events in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Organized by NCCA’s Subcommission on Cultural Communities and Traditional Arts (SCCTA), headed by commissioner Al-Anwar Anzar, Dayaw is annually held in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples’ Month observed every October, showcasing the different indigenous groups of the country, and an enriching and interesting array of activities including performances, rituals, forums, traditional cuisine demos, traditional games, arts and crafts exhibit and cultural tours, among others.

Dayaw aims to highlight the importance and richness of indigenous cultures, to discuss issues indigenous peoples face today and facilitate interactions with other indigenous peoples. It also aims to mine traditional knowledge as well as draw inspiration and insight from indigenous ways of life to find solutions for modern problems.

In previous years, Dayaw gathered indigenous peoples in one venue. This year, it will be held in three different venues in the three major island clusters of the country. It will have the theme “Katutubong Filipino Para sa Kalikasan at Kapayapaan” (Indigenous Filipino for the Environment and Peace).

In the Visayas, Dayaw will be held from November 10 to 11, 2014, in Bacolod City, also in partnership with Negros Cultural Foundation, Inc. It will be participated in by indigenous groups of central Philippines including Ati, Panay Bukidnon, Waray, Abaknon, Hiligaynon, and Cebuano.

In Mindanao, Dayaw will be held from November 6 to 7, 2014, in Zamboanga City, also in partnership with Zamboanga City Indigenous Peoples Council of Leaders. It will be participated in by indigenous groups of southern Philippines including Yakan, Subanen, Manobo, Higaonon, Bagobo, Mandaya, Mansaka, B’laan, Sangir, Ata Manobo, T’boli, Teduray, Arumanen, Mamanwa, Maranao, Magindanao, Iranun and Tausug.


Sen. Loren Legarda (center) with NCCA officials (from left) the National Committee on Central Cultural Communities head Alphonsus Tesoro; NCCA chairman Felipe M. de Leon Jr.; the National Committee on Southern Cultural Communities and SCCTA head Al-Anwar Anzar; and National Committee on Northern Cultural Communities head Edwin V. Antonio
Senator Loren Legarda, who is the chair of the Senate Committee on Cultural Communities, expressed her support for the festival.

“Our indigenous peoples never fail to amaze me. Whenever I visit a province and go to IP communities, I always discover marvelous things about our culture and heritage like intricately woven fabrics, cultural songs, chants and dances that narrate the story of our ancestors, and the distinct way of life that our indigenous peoples, who are our culture-bearers, strive to preserve,” she said during the press conference of Dayaw. “We have a very rich culture. I salute our indigenous peoples for preserving our culture and I thank the NCCA, led by chair Jun De Leon, for always showcasing our indigenous heritage through the Dayaw Festival.”

In line with this year’s Dayaw theme, Sen. Legarda commented: “It is sad to note that while our IPs contribute the least with respect to carbon emissions due to their simple and sustainable lifestyles and practices, they are most affected by the consequences of climate change. As we work on measures to better protect the environment and conserve our biodiversity, I urge our IPs to continue to be the primary guardians of the environment.”

Legarda also assured that she is working on other measures that will benefit indigenous peoples and their communities. Among the bills filed in the Senate for the welfare of IPs and for cultural preservation are: Ethnic Origin Act; Department of Culture Act; Traditional folk arts preservation through National Museum’s regional branches; Traditional Property Rights of IPs Act; Equal Employment Opportunities for IPs Act; Resource Centers for IPs Act; and Anti-Religious and Racial Profiling Act.

Legarda is particularly supportive of the country’s weaving traditions. She helped create the Hibla ng Lahing Filipino textile gallery at the National Museum as well as promote indigenous weaves.


The Itneg of Abra

Since the signing of Presidential Proclamation 1906, declaring October as National Indigenous Peoples’ Month, the NCCA has been annually celebrating the occasion in different parts of the country through Dayaw. In 2007, Kalimudan: Panaghi-usa sa Mindanao (Mindanao Indigenous Peoples’ Gathering) was held in Davao City in November, featuring Mindanao’s ethnic groups. The following year, Timpuyog: Indigenous Peoples’ Month Celebration in Luzon was held in Santiago City, Isabela, focusing on Luzon ethnic groups and featuring performances, arts and crafts workshops, cultural awareness lectures, forums, tours, and a theme-park exhibition featuring the traditional houses, cultural resources, practices/rituals, chants, music, songs and dances, stories, traditional arts and crafts, indigenous games. In 2009, the Indigenous Peoples’ Festival was held in the Visayas, particularly in Roxas City, Capiz, called Dungog, with similar activities and aims. Dayaw 2010 was held in Metro Manila, and in 2011, it was held in Tagum City, Davao del Norte. In 2013, Dayaw graced the province of Bulacan. Last year, Dayaw was slated to be held in Tacloban City but super typhoon Yolanda hit the region. It was reprogrammed into psychosocial and arts for healing activities in Leyte, Bohol, Aklan and Cebu.

The SCCTA is composed of the National Committee on Northern Cultural Communities headed by Edwin V. Antonio, the National Committee on Central Cultural Communities headed by Alphonsus Tesoro, and the National Committee on Southern Cultural Communities headed by Al-Anwar Anzar. They are assisted by Marichu Tellano, chief of the Plan/Policy Formulation, and Programming Division and Renee Talavera, SCCTA section head of the NCCA secretariat.

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September 17, 2014 is Ask A Curator Day

Is there anything about Philippine art and culture that you're curious about? Do you have any questions about Yuchengco Museum?

Next week is your opportunity to ask us or our curator, Jeannie Javelosa, on Twitter. September 17, 2014, Wednesday, is Ask A Curator Day. Take part in this unique Q&A session and annual worldwide Twitter event.

Send us your questions through Twitter using the hashtag #AskACurator and the handle@yuchengcomuseum or @jeanniejavelosa. We'll be answering your questions throughout the day!

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Heritage Pilgrimage: To Churches Declared as National Cultural Treasures

Heritage Pilgrimage: To Churches declared as National Cultural Treasures
May 16 to 17, 2014

Heritage Churches have been at the forefront of Philippine history as a tool in furthering Christianity in the archipelago. The Philippines is home to hundreds of centuries-old Spanish colonial churches, more than forty (40) of which have been declared as National Cultural Treasures (NCT). Most of these churches were built during the Spanish colonial rule and are mostly a fusion of European and Asian architectural motifs.

Presidential Decree No. 374 describes a National Cultural Treasure as "a unique object found locally, possessing outstanding historical, cultural, artistic and/or scientific value which is significant and important to this country and nation."

As the Heritage Pilgrimage aims to promote "awareness" for the sites for their historical, artistic and architectural interests, it also strongly recognizes and acknowledges that these more than 40-Heritage Churches have a strong tradition of religious meaning - for devotion, healing and spiritual significance for the majority of the Filipino People.

LAGUNA - QUEZON ITINERARY
May 16, 2014

7:30 am Departure from Makati (Tour Bus / Breakfast on Board)

10:00-11:30 am Arrive PILA, LAGUNA
Heritage Walk Tour:
Ø Shrine of San Antonio de Padua
Ø Pila Square and Museum
Ø Alava Ancestral House

12:00-1:30 pm BUFFET LUNCH at CASA BONINI FARM RESORT
(Resort house of the ALAVA’S)

2:00 -3:00 pm Arrive MAJAYJAY, LAGUNA
Visit Parish Church of St. Gregory the Great (NCT)
The Parish Church of San Ildefonso was built in the second half of the 18th century by the Franciscans. This church is the best preserved church complex in Rizal Province. The interior is rich, with five beautiful examples of rocoinfluenced retablos. On the walls are panels of the Via Crucis. These are celebrated because of the way in which there were indigenized through perspective, proportion and other details, one of the characters wears glasses.

4:00-6:00 pm Arrive LUCBAN, QUEZON
Pahiyas Town Tour
(Lucban Town is still decorated on this date and a beautiful feast for the senses when lights are on evening time. Lucbanins share this special festival until the weekend for those who can’t make it on May 15.)

6:30-7:30 pm PAHIYAS FIESTA DINNER at LA DONA ANA RESTAURANT
(menu specially prepared by a Quezon cuisine authority, MILADA DEALO VALDE)

7:45 pm Arrive TAYABAS CITY
Check-in at GRACELAND ESTATES and COUNTRY CLUB, INC.

Rest overnight

May 17, 2013

6:30-8:00 am Breakfast at MEMPHIS GARDEN CAFÉ

8:30-9:00 am Check-out from hotel

9:00-11:00 am Arrive SAN MIGUEL ARKANGHEL BASILICA MENOR (NCT)
Guided Church Tour and Diocesian Museum Tour
The Basilica of St. Michael was built in the 18th and 19th centuries by the Franciscans. This basilica is the best preserved and most beautifully decorated church complex in Quezon Province. The overall interior decoration is a good example of the new-classic style. Within the town are two other stone chapels and an ancient cemetery with its own chapel. The town is located on the foothills of Banahaw, with cool temperature.

11:30-12:30 am Arrive SARIAYA, QUEZON
GALA-RODRIGUEZ Ancestral House Tour
(NHI declared heritage house in Art Deco Architecture by National Artist Juan Nakpil)
Food Tasting of local delicacies (Tamales/Puto/Leche Flan)

1:00-2:30 pm Arrive Tiaong, Quezon
Lunch at UGU’S Pottery Garden or PATIS TITO GARDEN CAFE

5:00 pm ETA Manila

For inquiries and reservations, please contact Filipino Heritage Festival Inc. at 523-9692 or 330-2215. Look for Tonie or Mai.

Email us at : heritagemonth@yahoo.com.ph
send us a text message : 0916-4788163

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Ambeth Ocampo on Great Expectations from Philippine Museums

Great Expectations from Philippine Museums

A special talk by historian Ambeth Ocampo
May 17, 2014 Saturday
2:00 to 4:00 p.m. 

Open to members of the Alliance of Greater Manila Area Museums (AGMAM), museum professionals, supporters of museums, and those interested in knowing more about museums, the talk will dwell on Dr. Ocampo's observations of museums here and abroad in light of new museology, community and audience engagement, and globalization.

Dr. Ambeth Ocampo is a popular historian whose books and Philippine Daily Inquirer column have placed a different perspective on figures and events in Philippine history. His work as a historian has brought him to different libraries and museums here and abroad.

The talk is presented by AGMAM in celebration of International Museum Day.

Lecture fee is P150. AGMAM institutional members (one representative) and individual members attend for free.

To reserve slots for the talk, email agmam.membership@gmail.com or call Yuchengco Museum at 889-1234. To inquire about AGMAM, email agmam.membership@gmail.com.

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Ateneo Art Gallery Summer Art Workshop

Appreciate Philippine art and culture, explore different materials, and, enhance your creativity and imagination!



Ateneo Art Gallery
Summer Art Workshop 2014

BULILIT BATO-BALANI (6-9 yrs)
Children's Art Workshop
Learn about Philippine myths and folktales
Discover beauty and enchantment in Rodel Tapaya’s artworks
Create masks and collages 

APRIL 7, 8 and 10; 9am-12noon
Php2,800

BATO-BALANI (10-13 yrs)
Teens' Art and Writing Workshop
Learn about Philippine myths and folktales
Discover the inspiration behind Rodel Tapaya's paintings, sculptures and installation
Develop your own mythology and write stories about modern magical creatures
Design artwork-inspired desserts 

APRIL 22, 23 and 24 ; 9am-12noon
Php2,800

Facilitator: Bong Oris

Venue: Ateneo Art Gallery

To reserve slots or inquire about the classes:
Call: +63 2 4266001 ext. 4160 or +63 2 4266488
Email : rtalamayan@ateneo.edu
Visit: www.ateneoartgallery.org

Fees are INCLUSIVE of materials and snacks
Discounted rate | Php 2,520 for Ateneo Students and Children of Employees
Early Bird Rate | Discount of 5% will be given to those who will sign up by April 1, 2014

Payments can be made either by check (payable to Ateneo de Manila University) or cash. Kindly proceed to Ateneo Art Gallery Office located at Level 2, Rizal Library Special Collections Building, Ateneo de Manila University, Loyola Heights, Quezon City

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Pasinaya CCP Open House Festival 2014

Cultural Center of the Philippines
City of Manila
Intramuros Administration
Jeepney Tours
National Museum
Bahay Tsinoy
1335 Mabini
MET Museum
San Agustin Museum
Museo Pambata

PASINAYA CCP OPEN HOUSE FESTIVAL 2014
16 March 2014

The “largest multi-arts festival in the country” with this year’s theme, Pasinaya Goes the Extra Mile. More than 150 shows in music, theater, dance, visual arts, film, and literature to choose from. 3000 artists participating and with an expected viewership of over 50,000 - the Pasinaya transforms Manila and the art and culture mile between the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex and Intramuros into the most creative place on Earth. Pasinaya partners with the City of Manila, Intramuros Administration, Jeepney Tours, National Museum, Bahay Tsinoy, 1335 Mabini, MET Museum, San Agustin Museum and the Museo Pambata.

Pay what you can.
(Php50 suggested donation)

To view the Pasinaya 2014 schedule, click here.
To view the 1st CCP Pasinaya Festival Online Photo Competition Mechanics, click here.
To Pre-register, click here.

TICKET INFORMATION:

1. Regular Pasinaya Wristband (Pay what you can, See all you can): Php 50.00 suggested donation
- regular lane access

2. VIP (special) Ballers: Php 300.00
- special lane access to all CCP venues

3. VIP Box (contains 6 seats at the Main Theater): Php 3,000.00
- designated, reserved box for 6 pax at the CCP Main Theater
- special lane access to the CCP Main Theater (Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo), CCP Little Theater (Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino) and CCP Studio Theater (Tanghalang Huseng Batute)

* INFORMATION MAY CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE.

PERFORMANCE DATES
March 16, 2014
7:00 am - VARIOUS VENUES

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Legarda Bats for More Exhibitions to Showcase Philippine Art

In celebration of the National Arts Month, Senator Loren Legarda today said that the country should regularly showcase Philippine Art through exhibitions that will enrich the cultural awareness and attachment of Filipinos.

Legarda, Chair of the Senate Committee on Cultural Communities, said that showcasing Philippine art and culture through national and international exhibitions fosters the critical development of Philippine art and the professional growth of the Filipino artists within and outside the country, and strengthens the role of the Philippines in the local and global community as a nation of and destination for contemporary art in the 21st century.

"From indigenous to contemporary, the Philippines is rich in arts and artistic Filipinos. We have already spearheaded several initiatives and programs that aim to promote and protect the cultural diversity and sovereignty of our people through the powerful technology of exhibitions," she said in her privilege speech.

The Hibla ng Lahing Filipino: The Artistry of Philippine Textiles, the country's first permanent textile gallery, and the Baybayin: Ancient and Traditional Scripts of the Philippines, which are both housed at the National Museum, are among Legarda's initiatives.

"Supporting these exhibitions are several bills that I filed in the Senate to create the Department of Culture, to preserve the country's folk arts through the National Museum's regional branches, to safeguard the cultural property rights of the indigenous communities, to guarantee equal employment opportunities to the members of the Indigenous Cultural Committee, to include ethnic origin in the national survey, and to prohibit discrimination based on ethnicity, race, religion or belief, language, disability or other status," she said.

Legarda also said that she is equally determined to promote Philippine contemporary art and culture at home and abroad.

"I believe that our indigenous communities who continue the tradition of our ancestors inspire and inform the current practices of the Filipino artists whose works also constitute our cultural legacy. Through exhibitions of the everyday and the epic, we have the opportunity to commemorate our ancestors and learn the lessons of the past and celebrate our contemporaries and pave the way for their bright future," she stressed.

"In the spirit of the National Arts Month this February 2014 and my utmost belief that arts and culture are indispensable tools of national integration and international diplomacy, I invite you to join me in this bold and far-reaching endeavor to establish the necessary local and global links to better serve our nation and shepherd our people with pride, dignity, and honor," Legarda concluded.

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Seminar on Pottery & Ceramics @ Lopez Memorial Museum

On November 16, Friday, 8am-5pm, representatives from the National Museum of the Philippines' Archaeology Division will be resource persons on pottery and ceramics in a seminar open to those who care for, study and collect such items. This seminar will be held at the Lopez Memorial Museum. China's contribution in terms of ceramics and the distribution in Southeast Asia of these and other Asian ceramics will be discussed. Also included is a general introduction to ceramics (types, terminology, process), and the manufacture, construction, finishing and surface treatment of pottery. Archaeology has helped unearth these items and in terms of underwater archaeology, discussion will focus on its three phases of conserving ceramics from underwater sites.

Research into the Philippines' past has involved looking into pottery and ceramics. Many such samples are in private and museum collections with varying levels of accessibility to the public. While most display excellent preservation in archaeological contexts as stated by Ms Amalia de la Torre of the National Museum, these materials also deteriorate and are damaged. With a better understanding of the materials that embody aspects of our precolonial past, improved means of caring for this tangible cultural heritage can be established. Fee of Php1,500.00 includes lunch and snacks.

The Lopez Memorial Museum is at the ground floor, Benpres Building, Exchange Road corner Meralco Avenue, Pasig City. Museum days and hours are Mondays-Saturdays, 8am-5pm, except holidays.

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Dayaw 2011: A Grand Celebration of Indigenous Cultures

A grand celebration and gathering of indigenous Filipino cultures recently concluded in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, where about 40 indigenous groups and clusters performed and discussed issues, exhibits were mounted, traditional games and dishes were showcased and vernacular architecture was displayed.

About 400 delegates from all over the Philippines converged at the Energy Park in the barangay of Apokon of the progressive city for the celebration of Dayaw: Indigenous Peoples Festival 2011. The event was spearheaded by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), particularly its Subcommission on Cultural Communities and Traditional Arts (SCCTA), with the Mindanawon Initiatives for Cultural Dialogue, the Tagum City government, the Tagum City Tourism Council, different government agencies and the private sector.

The NCCA has been annually celebrating the National Indigenous Peoples’ Month in different parts of the country through this event. This year, it was held from October 7 to 9, with the theme “Paghabi ng Ating Pagkakatulad Tungo sa Kapayapaan” (Interweaving Our Commonalities Towards Peace).

A Mansaka group of Tagum City led by Datu Agidong Suknaan and Datu Rudy Onlos opened the festival with a ritual, thanking Magbabaya. The participants, about 400 of them, and guests were welcomed by Tagum City mayor Rey T. Uy. Department of Education Undersecretary Albert Muyot delivered the message of NCCA chairman Felipe de Leon, expressing appreciation to the city of Tagum, dubbed as the cultural hub of Mindanao. Also in attendance is NCCA executive director-officer-in-charge Adelina Suemith, who will serve the Commission while in search of executive director.

The highlight of the opening ceremony was an exhilarating parade of indigenous groups and clusters, including the Iloko and Bago, Pangasinan of Bolinao, Gaddang and Isinay, Tinggian and Itneg, Ibanag and Yogad, Itawit and Malaweg, Ivatan, Bungkalot and Isnag, Kalinga, Ifugao, Ibaloi, Kankanaey and Balangao, Bontok and Applai, Ayta of Central Luzon, Tagalog of Bulacan, Mangyan, Palawani, Molbog and Jama Mapun, Tagbanua, Pala’wan and Batak, Cuyunon of El Nido, Agta of Bicol, Bikolano, Ati of Negros Occidental, Ati of Guimaras, Iloilo and Capiz, Bukidnon of Panay, Ati of Antique and Aklan, Hiligaynon, Kiniray‐a and Aklanon, Waray and Abaknon, Yakan, Subanen, Manobo, Higaonon, Bagobo, Mandaya and Mansaka, B’laan and Sangir, Ata Manobo, T’boli, Teduray and Arumanen, Mamanwa, Maranao, Magindanao and Iranun, and Tausug.

NCCA SCCTA Commissioner Joycie Dorado Alegre expressed her admiration for Tagum City for taking up the challenge to host such a big event particularly to Alma Uy, the president of the City of Tagum Tourism Council, which oversaw and managed the event.

For three days, different groups performed at the sprawling park where a main stage was constructed as well as an intimate stage and an inamungan made by the Ata Manobo of Talaingod in Davao del Norte, an elevated structure used for special occasions, gatherings and important discussions. There were also performances in other parts of the region as outreach such as schools and malls in Davao City and several towns around Davao del Norte and in nearby Compostela Valley.

Aside from the performances, there were exhibits at the park: “Gama” (mats, baskets, bamboo crafts and wood crafts), “Dalit” (food and culinary arts), “Bantug” (prestige symbols), “Habi” (woven items, textiles and clothes) and “Kalinaw” (excerpts from Dr. Jesus Peralta’s book Glimpses). There were also examples of vernacular architecture erected at the park including the bebalay pagsalabukay, a Subanen common house;binotok, an Ata Manobo house; balay, an Ati house; patil, a house with single and high post; and an Ifugao hut.

Additionally, the 9th Kaimunan Festival of Tagum City was held on Oct. 7 as part of Dayaw. Held at the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), the event showcased the cultures of the ethnic groups of the city, particularly the Mansaka, and concluded with a traditional feast of rice, chicken and catfish cooked in bamboo tubes and bais, the ginger wine.

A substantial part of the Dayaw festival was the forum and workshop held at the DepEd Conference Room, with case presentations and discussions on indigenous peoples (IP) concerns. There were also presentations of traditional games to the delight of visitors.

The Dayaw 2011 closing ritual was held at the USeP, where the different indigenous groups gathered and watched the showcase of southern ethnic cultures and feasted on sumptuous traditional food. The event was highlighted by the reading of the Dayaw Tagum Declaration, ratified by the heads of different IPs and synthesized by anthropologist Dr. Prospero Covar. The declaration voices the issues, concerns and aspirations of the IPs as well as the actions to be taken by government, the general public and IPs themselves.

Overall, the Dayaw 2011 celebrates the cultural richness of the country through its indigenous peoples as well as confronts the problems that sadly beleaguer them. It is hoped that the festival will foster a deep appreciation of their contributions. Mindanawon Initiatives for Cultural Dialogue is this year’s conduit NGO for the celebration.

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Piolo Pascual is the new NCCA Ambassador for Culture

Piolo Pascual is now the country's ambassador for culture.

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the prime government arm dedicated to the promotion and development of Philippine arts and culture, has named the popular actor, singer, television personality, and film producer as the country's face and voice in promoting the rich and diverse cultures the Philippines has to offer.

Pascual, who will work with the NCCA in various ways through his participation in major programs of the commission, was selected from among the various personalities in the entertainment industry because of his mass appeal to the public; his positive image which can inspire and influence people of all ages; his love for culture and the arts; and his outstanding achievements as a young Filipino who can reach to all Filipinos around the globe.

Specifically, Pascual did an infomercial highlighting respect and love for the indigenous peoples of the Philippines, also in line with the celebration of the National Indigenous People's Month this October.

Titled as Dayaw: Indigenous Peoples Festival 2011, the leaders and representative of more than 100 indigenous people from all across the country will converge together from October 6 to 10 at Tagum City, Davao to showcase the rituals, performing arts, cuisines, games and crafts in the festival.

Under the auspices of the NCCA's Subcommission on Cultural Communities and Traditional Arts and Mindanawon Foundation, in partnership with local governments, government agencies and the private sector, Dayaw 2011 will spotlight the country's indigenous peoples in celebrating their arts and ways of life, discussing important issues and making more people aware of the richness and importance of indigenous cultures.

They will be joined by delegates from Southeast Asian countries in simultaneous exchange and interactive activities such as performances, exhibitions, forums, lecture-demonstrations, workshops on traditional crafts and cuisines and indigenous games.

This year, Dayaw aims to celebrate the cultures of the Filipino people as well as those of the visiting foreign delegates by "understanding the commonalities of the various indigenous peoples." It also aims to "strengthen/broaden the awareness, appreciation and pride of all Filipinos for our own traditional culture in the context of cross-cultural interactions in a global society.

With the theme "Paghabi ng Ating Pagkakatulad Tungo sa Kapayapaan" (Interweaving Our Commonalities Towards Peace), the festival features many components such as Tanghalang Makulay (a ritual and performing arts festival), Salu-salong Sarap (a food festival), Mga Habi ng Panaginip (an arts and crafts exhibit, focusing on basketry, textile and mat weaving), Sama-sama sa Tuwa (games/sports), and Usapang Dangal at Likhang Paghayag (forum and creative workshop on peace and unity).

The celebration is in consonance with Presidential Proclamation 1906, declaring October as National Indigenous Peoples' Month. The NCCA has been holding major festivals for several years now in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. In 2007, Kalimudan: Panaghi-usa sa Mindanao (Mindanao Indigenous Peoples' Gathering) held in Davao City in November, featured Mindanao's ethnic groups. The following year, Timpuyog: Indigenous Peoples' Month Celebration in Luzon was held in Santiago City, Isabela, focusing on Luzon ethnic groups and featuring performances, arts and crafts workshops, cultural awareness lectures, forums, tours, and a theme-park exhibition featuring the traditional houses, cultural resources, practices/rituals, chants, music, songs and dances, stories, traditional arts and crafts, indigenous games. In 2009, the Indigenous Peoples' Festival was held in the Visayas, particularly in Roxas City, Capiz, called Dungog, with similar activities and aims. Last year, Dayaw 2010 was held in Metro Manila.

This festival aims to provide venue for indigenous peoples to celebrate the richness of their cultures; allow cultural exchanges that will foster deeper cultural understanding to sustain a culture of peace; provide opportunity to discuss IP rights; give students and other people a chance to deepen their awareness and appreciation of indigenous cultures; recognize the expertise and contributions of indigenous communities; and advocate for the preservation as well as integration of traditional culture into the national cultural mainstream.

Dayaw 2011 is held in cooperation with local governments of Tagum and Davao as well as other LGU's nearby, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Department of Education, Department of Tourism, Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Foreign Affairs, Commission on Higher Education, Philippine Information Agency, Department of Trade and Industry, the National Commission for Muslim Filipino, SM City Davao, as well as non-governmental, socio-civic and peoples' organizations.

For more details, contact Ms. Marichu Tellano, Chief of the NCCA Planning, Policy Formulation and Programming Division, at 527-2214; or Rene Napenas, Head of the NCCA Public Affairs and Information Office at 527-5529 or 0928-5081056. E-mail us at ncca.paio@gmail.com or visit our Web site at www.ncca.gov.ph.

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Yamug 2: National Museum Month & Indigenous People's Month Celebrations

YAMUG 2: NATIONAL MUSEUM MONTH AND INDIGENOUS PEOPLE’S MONTH CELEBRATIONS

Xavier University and Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts will hold YAMUG 2 on October 2009, in Celebration of the National Museum Month and Indigenous People’s Month. YAMUG’s flagship program is the Mindanao Folk Literature Expo and Conference on October 24 at the Little Theater. YAMUG also includes a Talaandig Art Exhibit and Painting Exhibit by Museo de Oro’s resident artists – Nonoy Estarte and Bet Vamenta which will open on October 22 and will run until November 18, 2009.


Component

1. UGAT Conference - October 22-23, 2009, XU Little Theater

(In coordination with the Sociology Department, Xavier University)

2. Mindanao Folk Literature Expo and Conference - October 24, 2009, XU Little Theater
3. Yamug sa Dahung Laya (A Painting Exhibit) - Oct 22-Nov18, 2009,Museo de Oro
4. Talaandig Art Exhibit - Oct 22-Nov18, 2009, Museo de Oro


This year, YAMUG 2 features Tala-andig, Umayamnon, and Matigsalog’s Folk Literatures which will serve as avenues for cultural understanding and education.

The registration fee for the Yamug Expo and Conference is Php150.00 for professional participants and Php100.00 for students. A certificate of participation will be given to all registered participants who will finish the one day event.

For more information and confirmation of attendance, please call Mr Vicmar P Paloma through 858-3116 local 2059 or send text message through 09272493169 or 09156612362.

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NCCA Celebrates Indigenous Peoples Month this October

NCCA Celebrates Indigenous Peoples Month this October

In celebration of Indigenous Peoples Month this October, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), led by its Chairman Dr. Vilma Labrador and Executive Director Cecile Guidote Alvarez, supports the holding of Timpuyog: Indigenous People Month Celebration in Luzon . It will happen from Oct. 7 to 12, 2008 , in Santiago City , Isabela. There will be performances, arts and crafts workshops, cultural awareness lectures, fora and tours, among others. Focus is on the ethnic groups of Luzon , and the festival will bring together about 18 ethnic groups including Kalinga, Ilocano, Ifugao, Tingguian, Pampangan, Bontoc, Ayta, Isnag, Bicol, Dumagat, Mangyan, Ibaloi/Kankanaey, Ivatan, Ibanag, Itawes, Gaddang/Isinay, Bugkalot and Tagbanua.

An indigenous people’s village will be set up in the barangay of Balintocatoc in Santiago City . It will be a thematic park showcasing the different houses of indigenous groups in Luzon .

Envisioned as a celebration of peace, the festival aims to gather these groups to participate in a cultural exchange highlighting significant aspects of their way of life, both material and non-material culture and tradition. Each participating community will feature their traditional houses, cultural resources, practices/rituals, chants, music, songs and dances, stories, traditional arts and crafts, indigenous games in the week-long festival. During the festival, traditional artists and cultural masters will be recognized, and discussion-fora on IP rights and other concerns on preservation, promotion and development of traditional culture will also be included.

The communities will have simultaneous inter-active activities such as performances, exhibitions, fora, lecture-demonstrati ons and workshops on traditional crafts and cuisine, and indigenous games while at the same time, a particular tradition of a community will be highlighted for the appreciation and understanding of other communities and of the students from various schools, colleges and universities as well.

The festival is in pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 486 signed by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and consistent with Presidential Proclamation No. 1124 issued by former President Fidel V. Ramos and the United Nation's General Assembly declaration of the year 2005 to 2014 as the Second International Decade of the World's Indigenous People.

Last year, the NCCA supported Kalimudan: Panaghi-usa sa Mindanao (Mindanao Indigenous Peoples’ Gathering) held in Davao City in November. It featured Mindanao’s ethnic groups.

This year, the program of Timpuyog is spearheaded by the NCCA Committee on Northern Cultural Communities through the city government of Santiago in cooperation with various government agencies, institutions and other stakeholders.

It will also be attended by national officials, congressmen, non-governmental organizations, members of the media and students from the different schools in Luzon.

For details, contact the NCCA-Public Affairs and Information Office at 527-5529 / 527-2192 loc. 612-615, or log on to www.ncca.gov.ph.

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Agimat Project Launch @ Access Point Bar

Organized by Dakila, JCI QC Capitol, and Anino Design , Agimat Project ushers a new phase in the development of Filipino art and culture. The Agimat Project dubbed as Agimat: Sining at Kulturang Pinoy Website will be launched on July 31, 2008, Thursday at the Access Point Bar, Scout Borromeo, Quezon City. The website has been active for 3 years already, supporting independent artists.

The Launch will kick off with a press conference of Agimat, its partner organizations for the project and artists supporting the initiative. The Launch will also feature various artistic performances. The launch will also serve as a fund raising campaign for the medical needs of talented musician and well-loved colleague, Susan Fernandez, who is battling cancer. Another highlight of the launch will be the showing of the 46-artist collaborative anthem ‘Kaya Mong Maging DAKILA’ music video.

The project bears a significant aspect of our society – that of reaching out to our artist brothers and sisters in a gesture of genuine brotherhood and camaraderie, two traits that we are sure your company stands for in the Philippine Community.

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Cavite Heritage Tour by Museum Foundation of the Philippines

Everyone is invited to join our Cultural Study Tour of the historical town of Cavite, a living museum of Philippine revolutionary history. Many of its landmarks are also a testament of the elegant tastes and lifestyles of illustrados who led the revolution of 1898. Our guest lecturer is Ms. Tina Decal.

Cavite Heritage Tour
July 19, 2008, Saturday
06:30 am Santuario De San Antonio Church, Forbes Park, Makati City (parking area) We encourage everyone to buy breakfast for the trip although light pastries and water will be served on-board).
8:00 - 9:00 am Arrive Kawit, Cavite
Tour to Aguinaldo Shrine - the mansion of the First Philippine President was the site of the proclamation of Independence in June 12, 1898.
9:30 - 10:30 am Arrive General Trias, Cavite
Visit at GBR Museum (Geronimo Berenguer delos Reyes)
11:00 - 11:45 am Arrive Amadeo, Cavite
Shopping at Café Amadeo
12:15 - 2:00 pm Arrive at Indang, Cavite
Lunch at Balai Indang (savor & enjoy a good lunch of : salad, pasta, chicken, seafood, embotido, veggie, flavored rice, bottomless dalandan juice and dessert).
2:00 - 2:30 pm Sidetrip to Indang Church (rare tromp l'oeil in shades of old rose and grey enliven this church. A rare oil painting of the seven archangels is revered in the right altar). And sidetrip to Bonifacio Monument/marker.
3:00 - 4:00 pm Arrive Dasmariñas, Cavite.
Tour at De La Salle Museum (Bahay Na Bato Museum). The alumni of La Salle erected a museum in the manner of Philippine Colonial houses in its vast campus in Dasmariñas. The Bahay-na-Bato or stone mansion features the best of ornamentation found in affluent houses during the 19th century.
4:14 - 5:00 pm Arrive Silang, Cavite
Visit Silang Church. Three beautiful baroque reredos adorn the church. The main reredo features events leading to the birth of the Savior. The central niche is occupied by the statue of the N. S. de Candelaria. The two side reredos feature Jesuit saints since Cavite was under the spiritual care of the Jesuits prior to their expulsion.
05:00 pm Departure for Manila.
07:00 pm ETA Makati, Santuario de San Antonio Church
(ETA, depends on the traffic).

You can download the reservation form in pdf or zipped pdf format.

Museum Foundation reserves the right to change the itinerary. In case of bad weather, the tour may be cancelled. For more information or reservations, please call the Museum Foundation office at 404-2685/0928- 503-9392, and look for Elvie or Menchie; at 722-9073 and look for Flor.

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Join NCCA's Layag Program!

The NCCA-Committee on Visual Arts is calling for proposals from different artists’ groups, arts organizations, art spaces or cultural institutions, which can offer a viable a local artist residency program.

The chosen Layag grantee will implement and administer its own residency program, and will only accept artists from other regions to qualify as artists-in-residenc e.

For details, please click, or copy and paste this link onto your browser:

http://www.ncca. gov.ph/about- ncca/announcemen ts/an-pages/ an-layag2008. php

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National Museum Goes Nature Walk to Mt. Banahaw

National Museum Goes "Nature Walk" to Mt. Banahaw

Have a fun-filled and knowledge-loaded activity this summer. Join the National Museum as it invites natural science teachers, students, nature lovers and interested individuals to a "Nature Walk" in Mount Banahaw in Quezon Province from April 24-25, 2008.

The activity involves flora and fauna species identification; field demonstration on how to collect and process animals, plants and fungi; nature photography; lectures on concept of parks and protected areas in the Philippines as well as nature preservation awareness.

Slots are limited and participants will be accepted on a first-come-first- served basis.

For more information, please get in touch with Mr. Mel Lagartija or Ms. Rizza Salterio of the Museum Education Division at telefax 5270278.

For more Museum Foundation events and activities please visit our website at http://museumfoundationph.org/news/

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Art 2 Art Marks First Anniversary

WOMEN ARTISTS GRACE ³ART 2 ART²
FIRST ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

It¹s a double celebration for ³Art 2 Art² this month, with a joint salute marking International Women¹s Month and the program¹s first anniversary! Hosted by ³ballerina of the people², Lisa Macuja, the program is the only local radio talk show that highlights artists as celebrity figures and aims to popularize arts and culture through its mass-based, ³info-tainment² programming.

This month, a powerhouse line-up of Filipina artists will grace ³Art 2 Art² in a series of interesting episodes no one should miss. On March 2, writer-radio host and pop icon Jessica Zafra goes one-on-one with Lisa to explain how she intends to promote reading among Filipinos, her take on irony and society, and her bold theories about world domination. Legendary duo Inang Laya, progressive musicians Karina David and Becky Demetillo, reunites to commemorate International Women¹s Day on March 9 and shares their views on being an artist, feminist and nationalist. Three siblings born of artist-parents let us into growing up in an art-soaked atmosphere when Sari, Aba and Kiri Dalena guest on March 16. The ³Grand Dame of Southeast Asian Children¹s Theater², Amelia Lapena-Bonifacio, makes a rare interview appearance to bring us a glimpse of her life¹s work in promoting puppetry and children¹s theater in the region on March 23. And finally, on March 30, ³Art 2 Art² pays tribute to an extraordinarily gifted Filipina artist, teacher and cultural manager, National Artist for Music Lucrecia ³King² Kasilag, as she prepares to mount her latest opus even from her sickbed.

March is made memorable by these lovely gems of Philippine art, only on ³Art 2 Art² ­ kung saan ang usapang sining at kultura ay para sa lahat! ³Art 2 Art², hosted by Lisa Macuja, airs every Sunday, 3:30pm, over dzRH and is a production of the Manila Broadcasting Company.

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