SORSOGON CITY, Sorsogon (PIA) — In celebration of National Arts Month, public school teachers in this city staged the “Sining Tanghalan” festival the other week.
The festival featured the best of visual arts and folk dances from February 17 to 19 at the Sorsogon Capitol grounds and Sorsogon Pilot Elementary School in Sorsogon City.
A total of 16 contestants from the kindergarten category showcased their artistic talents through a “Draw and Tell” competition.
The participants were given just one hour to create their drawings that represented contributions to society, and they explained their works in front of the judges and the audience.
The event also provided an opportunity for parents to show their support in nurturing their children’s talents.
Yvette Lajada, the mother of the winner in the kindergarten category, believes that her child is at her happiest when she is drawing.
Lajada explained that her child’s passion for drawing began as a hobby, and competitions like this help develop the talents of students like her daughter.
She made sure to provide her full support during the competition.
“Magayunon mag-drawing. Happy ako sobra (It’s beautiful to draw. I’m very happy!),” said 6-year-old Christine Grace Abante, who outperformed her kindergarten classmates.
Mikaela Keilah Sophia Lopez, the winner of the painting category in the elementary division, encouraged her fellow aspiring artists to never give up on art, emphasizing that artists enjoy limitless freedom.
“Art is art,” she said, explaining that it has no guidelines or rules.
Ramon Guillermo Villamor, the cultural coordinator for Sorsogon West District of the Department of Education, emphasized that art provides a vital outlet for students to express themselves.
“Art is the expression of the students,” he said.
Villamor explained that through art, students can convey their culture, emotions, and personal identities.
He also noted the importance of participating in events like these, as they enable students to communicate their thoughts and feelings through artistic expression.
Villamor emphasized that beyond fostering mental development, the arts also play a significant role in shaping a child’s character.
With the theme “Ani ng Sining: Diwa at Damdamin,” the celebration encouraged students to appreciate art while showcasing the historical sites in their respective locations. (with a report from Kyla Jane Galido, PIA5/Sorsogon)
