National Arts Month 2025 Launches with Grand Celebration

Manila, Philippines – February 3, 2025

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) proudly inaugurated National Arts Month (NAM) 2025 with a vibrant ceremony held in front of its newly adorned building in Intramuros, Manila. The event, which took place on February 3, 2025, showcased the rich tapestry of Filipino artistry and set the stage for a month-long celebration of the nation’s cultural heritage.

A Festive Opening

The NCCA building was transformed with intricate Singkaban decorations, a traditional art form from Bulacan characterized by elaborate bamboo arches and designs. This embellishment not only highlighted the architectural beauty of the structure but also paid homage to the country’s indigenous art forms, symbolizing the fusion of tradition and modernity in Philippine culture.

The opening ceremony featured a diverse array of performances, including traditional dances, musical renditions, and theatrical presentations, all aimed at celebrating the various facets of Filipino art. Esteemed artists and cultural groups from across the nation participated, reflecting the unity and diversity of the Philippines’ artistic community.

Theme and Objectives

This year’s NAM is anchored on the theme “Marangal, Malikhain, Mapagbago” (Honorable, Creative, Transformative), emphasizing the role of the arts in fostering national pride, encouraging creative expression, and driving societal transformation. The NCCA aims to:

• Promote Artistic Excellence: By providing platforms for artists to showcase their work, the commission seeks to elevate the standards of Filipino art and inspire emerging talents.
• Foster Cultural Awareness: Through various activities, the NCCA endeavors to deepen the public’s appreciation of the country’s rich cultural heritage.
• Encourage Community Engagement: The celebration aims to involve communities nationwide, ensuring that the arts remain accessible and relevant to all Filipinos.

Nationwide Activities

Throughout February, a series of events and programs are slated to take place across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, ensuring widespread participation and engagement. Key activities include:

• Visual Arts Exhibitions: The National Committee on Visual Arts (NCVA) has organized exhibitions in Cebu City from February 6 to 8 and in Baler, Aurora from February 22 to 24. These exhibitions aim to highlight creative innovations within the Philippine visual arts scene and provide a platform for local talent, fostering stronger connections between the different regions of the country. citeturn0search2
• Performing Arts Festivals: Various performances in dance, music, and theater will be held in major cities, featuring both established and emerging artists. These festivals aim to showcase the dynamic and evolving landscape of Filipino performing arts.
• Literary Workshops and Readings: The National Committee on Literary Arts (NCLA) has scheduled workshops and readings to promote Philippine literature, encouraging both writers and readers to engage deeply with the written word.
• Cultural Tours and Heritage Site Visits: To foster a deeper understanding of the nation’s history and traditions, guided tours and visits to significant cultural sites have been organized, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the Philippines’ rich heritage.

Call for Participation

The NCCA extends an open invitation to all Filipinos to partake in the festivities. Artists, cultural workers, educational institutions, and community organizations are encouraged to organize their own events in line with the NAM 2025 theme. The commission offers support and resources to ensure the success of these initiatives.

For those interested in contributing to the celebration, the NCCA has announced a call for exhibition proposals for the 2025 NCCA Gallery and Exhibition Program. This initiative provides a platform for artists to showcase their work and engage with a broader audience. citeturn0search1

Looking Ahead

As the nation embarks on this month-long celebration, the NCCA remains committed to its mission of preserving, developing, and promoting Philippine arts and culture. Through NAM 2025, the commission hopes to inspire a renewed appreciation for the arts and to highlight their vital role in shaping a progressive and inclusive society.

For more information on upcoming events and how to participate, please visit the NCCA’s official website at ncca.gov.ph.

About the NCCA

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts is the official government agency for culture in the Philippines. It serves as the overall policy-making body, coordinating, and grants-giving agency for the preservation, development, and promotion of Philippine arts and culture. The NCCA is dedicated to ensuring that the nation’s diverse cultural expressions are appreciated, preserved, and nurtured for future generations.

Manila, Philippines – February 3, 2025 The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) proudly inaugurated National Arts Month (NAM) 2025 with a vibrant ceremony held in front of its newly adorned building in Intramuros, Manila. The event, which took place on February 3, 2025, showcased the rich tapestry of Filipino artistry and set…