SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-La Union, in collaboration with the La Union Creative Industries Association (LUCIA), launched the “Laing La Union” (Skilled La Union) Arts Festival at the Robinsons La Union here recently.
As part of the National Creative Industries Month celebration this September, the event highlights the crucial role creative industries play in the province’s local economy and emphasizes the importance of diverse fields, from music and performing arts to visual arts like painting.
Participated by 10 local creative collaborators, the program included talks for aspiring artists, demonstration on basic painting, doodle art, rubber cut printmaking, theater productions, and song writing.
By showcasing local talent, the event was aimed at enhancing the visibility of La Union’s artists and foster collaboration within the creative community.
DTI Ilocos Assistant Regional Director Merlie Membrere urged the public to unite in supporting local artists and creators in the province.
“By promoting their work and advocating for the growth and recognition of the arts, we can elevate our creative landscape, both locally and beyond,” Membrere said.
Membre also stressed the agency’s continued partnership with local creative industries to encourage digital content creators to closely work with the government to help them access more opportunities.
One of the DTI’s programs is Go Lokal! project which provides market access for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), including those from the creative industries.
Through Go Lokal!MSMEs that create products in areas such as fashion, design, and handicrafts gain visibility in local and international markets.
Meanwhile, Bernard Jerome Barbadillo, a visual artist in the province, said he is honored to showcase his passion, imagination, and dedication through this vibrant arts fest.
“As one of the contributors of this festival, we aim to inspire, engage, and connect with each one of you, especially the youth sector, sharing stories, emotions, and visions that transcend boundaries. This is also a perfect time to uplift the field of arts here in our province, to celebrate the beauty of diversity, and to foster creativity that moves us all,” Barbadillo said.
The annual event is mandated by Republic Act No. 11904 or the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA), which promotes and supports the development of Philippine creative industries by protecting and strengthening their rights and capacities.
Aligned with the aspirations of PCIDA, the Philippine Creative Industries Month (PCIM) aims to promote and celebrate the role of creative industries in nation-building and socioeconomic advancement.(AMB/MJTAB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
