President Marcos Honors Unsung Art Industry Heroes
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. highlighted the vital contributions of the art industry during a recent ceremony, calling attention to those who work tirelessly behind the scenes. He emphasized their importance in shaping the nation’s cultural identity and commemorating independence.
At the Parangal ng Kalayaan event held in Malacañang Palace, winners of the Float Design Competition and Festival Performance Competition were celebrated. These contests were part of the Independence Day festivities in Manila last June 12, where creativity and tradition took center stage.
Remembering Roots Through Art Industry Contributions
“The new Philippines is not just about progress. It is also about remembering and giving importance to our roots,” the president said in Filipino. He saluted not only the artists, designers, organizers, and dancers but also the mandalas whose efforts often go unnoticed.
“To those who carried the props, crafted every part of the float, sewed the costumes, and cleaned up and packed after the parade — each of you played a vital role in the success of our celebration,” he added, acknowledging the collective effort behind the scenes.
Marcos expressed hope that the spirit of Independence Day will inspire Filipinos throughout the year. “Let us show that we are the heirs of the courage, wisdom, and compassion of our ancestors. We are the new Filipinos,” he declared.
Competition Winners Celebrate Filipino Heritage
Candon, Ilocos Sur’s Ikkis Ti Candon took home the grand prize in the Float Design Competition, receiving a trophy, certificate, and a cash award of P2,000,000. Close contenders included Iloilo’s Cry of Santa Barbara float as first runner-up and Negros Occidental’s Cinco de Noviembre Revolt float as second runner-up.
In the Festival Performance Competition, Maasin, Iloilo’s Tultugan Festival was crowned grand champion with the same prize package. Meanwhile, the Maytime Festival in Antipolo and Iloilo City’s Dinagyang Festival earned second and first runner-up honors, respectively.
Representatives and winners posed alongside President Marcos and First Lady Liza Marcos, marking a proud moment for the art industry’s vital role in celebrating Filipino culture and independence.
Sources said the event underscored the importance of recognizing every contributor, from performers to those who handle the intricate details behind the scenes, reinforcing a collective national pride.
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