The National Heritage Month (NHM) celebration this May kicked off in Capiz at the Provincial Capitol Grounds in Roxas City, May 2, amid special performances highlighting the province’s renowned talents.
The province, a home to the Pan-ayanon Bukidnon and Ati Indigenous Cultural Communities, is known for its diverse and multi-faceted culture as reflected in its traditions, customs, and beliefs and is also considered a premiere tourist destination in the region that offers unique cultural experiences.
On behalf of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), particularly the Subcommission on Heritage, NCCA Commissioner Dr. Ivan Anthony Henarez led the declaration of the opening of the National Heritage Month 2023.
He was joined by NCCA Chairperson Victorino Mapa Manalo and NCCA Executive Director Oscar Casaysay, among other NCCA officials, during the program.
In a video message, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., has called on Filipinos to explore how our history and culture shape and define us as a people and as a nation.
“So together, let us be inspired by our heritage in creating the just, equitable, and progressive society all Filipinos dream of,” said part of the President’s message.
During the program, an unveiling of the NHM Commemorative Stamp 2023 was conducted by NCCA officials as well as Philippine Postal Corporation executives led by Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos.
Capiz vice-governor Jaime Magbanua joined the NCCA and PhilPost officials in the unveiling activity.
For this year, the commemorative stamps feature “Kalayaan ay Pamana: 125th Anniversary of the First Philippine Republic and Democracy.”
The NHM celebration with the theme, “Heritage: Change and Continuity,” is embodied in Presidential Proclamation No. 439 which intends to foster consciousness, respect and love for the nation’s culture and history among Filipinos. (PIA Capiz)
