ANGONO, Rizal (PIA) – The celebration and appreciation of Angono’s art and heritage live on beyond National Arts Month as the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) held a culminating program celebrating the deep-rooted creativity and history of the town.

Held on March 23, the NCCA organized this yearly event to commemorate the colorful heritage of the Filipino people through lively performances, impressive Higantes puppets, and an atmosphere filled with joy.

Tourism secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco graced the event and paid tribute to the tradition of culture and creativity in Angono that has helped the arts and tourism industry nationwide.

"By channeling the creative energies of our artists toward the betterment of society, we have witnessed the synergizing of the arts into the lives of our communities as we close this chapter of National Arts Month. Let us carry forward the spirit of Bayang Malikhain in our hearts,” the secretary said.

Angono Mayor Jeri Mae Calderon expressed gratitude for the town's continued recognition as the Art Capital of the Philippines, which she attributes to homegrown artists and the renowned Higantes Festival.

Despite limited resources, the local government pledges full support for the arts community and expresses hope that the NCCA will continue its support for the arts industry.

“Our artists are known and appreciated throughout the Philippines and the world. I hope they will be the proof that we deserve to be called the Art Capital… In the local government, we will do everything to support you, even with limited resources, but rich in innovation,” said Calderon.

Several artists and performers participated in the event and showcased their talents in multiple disciplines, including the Angono National Symphonic Band, Angono Chorale Ensemble, Regional Lead School for the Arts, APHS Concert Choir, Luwal Sining Pagganap Vocal Ensemble, Body of Christ Youth Chorus, Coro Rizaleño, Novo Concertante Manila, Artist Inc., UP Filipiniana Dance Group, and individuals like Ms. Fatima Santos, Mr. Rommel Bonus, Yuan Mor’o Ocampo, Prof. Giuseppe Andre V. Diestro, Ms. Gretta Campo, and Angono Councilor BJ Forbes.

Garcia-Frasco then urged fellow Filipinos to continue patronizing our local artists and to always be proud of what the country has to offer.

“Let it remind us of the multitude of reasons to celebrate and love the Philippines, not just for its natural beauty, but for its vibrant culture, resilient spirit, and, above all, the unparalleled creativity of the Filipino," Frasco added.

The tourism secretary also paid a visit to some well-known museums in the town, such as the Blanco Family Museum and the Bahay and Art Gallery of National Artist for Visual Art Carlos "Botong" Francisco. (MBL/PIA-Rizal)