Art for unity. Khiara Rose Bucol, an artist from Oro Teatro Bulawanon, discusses the power of art in a Talakayan sa PIA Life and Style. She emphasizes that art is more than just entertainment—it has the potential to unite people and give them a sense of purpose beyond the monotony of daily life. (Photo: HSA/PIA-10)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — A local artist is thankful to the city government here for supporting programs that use the arts to engage the youth and address social issues.
In an interview on Talakayan sa PIA Life and Style, Khiara Rose Bucol, a member of Oro Teatro Bulawanon, said government-funded arts initiatives offer young people creative outlets and a space for self-expression.
Bucol cited the Cagayan de Oro Boot Camp, organized by the city’s Gender and Development Office during last year’s Higalaay Festival, as an example.
The boot camp included mentorship, cultural immersion, and performances. Participants trained with industry professionals and attended workshops focused on enhancing artistic skills and learning about Mindanao’s cultural heritage.
Bucol said the initiative helped youth engage with topics such as teenage pregnancy, suicide, and the growing number of out-of-school youth.
“One of their goals is helping the youth divert into something productive. They saw these issues and decided to offer solutions through the arts,” she said.
She hopes the city will continue to support art as a way to strengthen communities.
“I hope the government continues to view art not just as an entertainment, but as a way to bring people together and offer them something meaningful to live for, beyond just living a mundane life or seeing that there is no hope,” she added. (JMOR/PIA-10)
