Volume XVIII • Number 2 • 2015 • For Artists and Cultural Workers • ISSN 0119-5948Inscribed for Posterity Official Newsletter of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts 2 | Agung March - May 2014 MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN T his issue of Agung captures an auspicious and celebratory time in the arts and culture landscape of the country as there are several developments that we can be indeed grateful for. First, our literatures are given their deserved spotlight, not only this year but in the years to come with the signing of Proclamation No. 968, which declares April as Buwan ng Panitikang Filipino or National Literature Month. With this gesture, the whole nation will bestow on our writers and their works that very much deserved salutation. Literature has been crucial in shaping our personal lives, our communities and the nation. Not exactly literature, but a system of writing was declared National Cultural Treasure. The baybayin documents of the University of Santo Tomas and their recognition inspire us to take pride in our own culture, which is advanced enough to have its own systems of writing. Concerning another National Cultural Treasure, the Metropolitan Theater of Manila has finally come under the wings of the NCCA. After many years of sporadic restoration and neglect, this heritage landmark will see a rebirth as a center for the arts as plans are underway for its rehabilitation and conservation. On the other hand, a part of our intangible cultural heritage, specifically the Christian traditions, is vibrant and well. The Filipino is a very spiritual people, and it is no surprise that some groups, particularly, the lowland ones, had embraced Christianity. Not only that, the Filipino has imbued it with such character and color that the religion becomes effervescent and interesting. It is not enough that rituals are somber and serious; they must include dancing and songs, engaging the whole community. Devotion is not only private but public as well, as people gather and connect to each other in public ceremonies and celebrations. A celebration of a Philippine Christian milestone, Kaplag 450 not only traces the devotion to the Santo Nino and the start of Christianity in the Philippines. It is also a reflection of this devotion made alive with dancing and songs, resulting in the spectacular Sinulog Festival of Cebu as well as other feast day celebrations in honor of the Santo Niño. Even in the most elegiac of Christian occasions like Lent, Filipinos still gather together and mount colorful commemorations that not only gather the community but draw people from other places to join as well, such as the case of the Lenten rituals and traditions of Paete, Laguna. And in line with the Yugyugan event, we dance for ourselves, for the community, for heritage and for the spirit that unites us as a nation. We dance to connect, to heal and to inspire. FELIPE M. DE LEON, JR. Vol. XVIII, No. 2 March-June 2015 ISSN 0119-5948 FELIPE M. DE LEON, JR. chairman About the cover Cover shows the Old Tagalog baybayin documents of University of Santo Tomas Archives declared a National Cultural Treasure ADELINA M. SUEMITH oic-executive director MARLENE RUTH S. SANCHEZ, MNSA deputy executive director Rene Sanchez Napeñas editor-in-chief The agung is a knobbed metal gong of the Philippines used in various communal rituals. Suspended in the air by rope or metal chains, the musical instrument is also employed by some indigenous groups as a means to announce community events, and as an indicator of the passage of time. Agung is published bimonthly by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. Roel Hoang Manipon managing editor Mervin Concepcion Vergara art director Marvin Alcaraz photographer Leihdee Anne Cabrera Manny Arawe Alinor Maqueda May Corre Tuazon Roezielle Joy Iglesia Randolf Clarito paio staff Emilie V. Tiongco editorial consultant The National Commission for Culture and the Arts As the government arm for culture and the arts, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is the overall policy-making, coordinating, and grants-giving agency for the preservation, development and promotion of Philippine arts and culture; and executing agency for the policies it formulates; and an agency tasked to administer the National Endowment Fund for Culture and the Arts (NEFCA). The NCCA traces its roots to the Presidential Commission for Culture and the Arts (PCCA), which was created when President Corazon Aquino signed Executive Order No. 118 on January 30, 1987, “mindful of the fact that there is a need for a national body to articulate a national policy on culture, to conserve and promote national heritage, and to guarantee a climate of freedom, support and dissemination for all forms of artistic and cultural expression.” On April 3, 1992, President Aquino signed Republic Act No. 7356 creating the NCCA and establishing the NEFCA, a result of over two years of legislative consultations among government and private sector representatives. The bill was sponsored by senators Edgardo J. Angara, Leticia RamosShahani, Heherson T. Alvarez and congressman Carlos Padilla. The NCCA Secretariat, headed by the executive director and headquartered at the historic district of Intramuros, provides administrative and technical support to the NCCA and other units, and delivers assistance to the culture and arts community and the public. UST archivist Regalado Trota Jose guides NCCA chairman Felipe de Leon Jr., and KWF chairman Virgilio Almario in viewing the baybayin documents. /Photo by Marvin Alcaraz Invaluable Imprints UST Baybayin Documents Declared National Cultural Treasure The National Archives of the Philippines (NAP) unveiled a marker for the two Old Tagalog baybayin documents of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Archives, declaring them a National Cultural Treasure (NCT), on November 13, 2014, at the Miguel de Benavides Library. This was the first time NAP has declared a National Cultural Treasure and the first for a paper document. The unveiling was graced by NAP executive director Victorino Mapa Manalo; National Artist for literature and Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino chairman Virgilio Almario; NCCA chairman Felipe de Leon Jr.; UST rector Rev. Fr. Herminio V. Dagohoy, O.P.; and UST archivist Regalado Trota Jose. Prior to the unveiling of the marker, the UST baybayin documents were first declared NCT at the Second Baybayin Conference, the Ancient and Tradition Scripts in the Philippines. Hosted by the National Museum of the Philippines (NM), the conference was held at the Ayala Theater, Museum of the Filipino People, on August 22, 2014, in conjunction with the nationwide celebration of Buwan ng Wika. The First Baybayin Conference was held on December 13, 2013, and presented the discovery of Monreal Stones in Ticao Island, Masbate, to the public. For the second conference, the objectives were to present updates on the studies made on Monreal Stones and other artefacts with ancient scripts, to intensify awareness on the cultural importance of the baybayin; to raise awareness of the importance of cultural heritage and the need for its protection; to share knowledge; and to provide a forum for researchers and students on how to preserve and protect the Filipino cultural heritage. The conference was participated in by more than sixty representatives from NAP, UST, National Library, KWF, San Beda Ayala, Siliman University, University of the Philippines, Normal University of the Philippines, NCCA, Sanghabi Group, Philippine Daily Inquirer, and the Na- tional Museum personnel from the Archaeology, Anthropology and Chemistry and Conservation Laboratory Divisions. Distinguished anthropologists and researchers in the field of ancient and traditional scripts in the Philippines presented their paper including Dr. Bonifacio F. Comandante, Jr of the Siliman University, who gave updates on the Monreal Stones, sulat baybayin of Mindanao, and present use of baybayin; Dr. Teresita B. Obusan of Bahay Nakpil, who said that there is a need to conduct an extensive and intensive research on ancient and traditional scripts in the Philippines and the baybayin is a medium used by our ancestors in giving meaning to things, objects and events; Emmanuel S. Castro, who told the accomplishment of Sanghabi in 15 years of research, presentation and ritual performance; Adelina Villena, who discussed the case of the illegal extraction of stalagmite in Guri Cave; Melissa May Cardenas, who combined the art of writing ambahan, poetry from of Hanunuo and Buhid, using baybayin; Leo Batoon, who presented the National Museum project on the conservation of Tagbanua/Pala’wan syllabic writing; and Dr. Ramon Guillermo, who attempted to qualify or even refute the notion that texts written in traditional Tagalong baybayin are necessarily difficult or even impossible to read, and made a renewed assertion of a corollary hypothesis regarding the strong possibility of a relationship between Bugis-Makasar and Philippine syllabaries. The public declaration of UST baybayin documents served as the highlight of the conference, led by Michael C. Francisco. Jose presented a paper on their significance. Baybayin is a general Filipino or Tagalog word for “script,” “writing” or “syllabary,” and now refers to the Old Tagalog abugida. The Philippines has several baybayins, including the Palaw’an, Tagbanua, Hanunuo Mangyan and Buhid Mangyan. The UST baybayin documents are two deeds of sale of land, not 35. selling and buying land in this instance.. Baybayin Buhayin. who bought the land in Document A. possessing outstanding historical. a daily newspaper published by the university. The documents are the fifth objects found in the UST campus to be declared NCTs. The second paper was previously dated to 1635. to Don Andres Capiit of Dilao. the documents are stored at the UST archives and are unavailable for public viewing. the Arch of the Centuries. Manila. /Photo by Marvin Alcaraz OTHER GOVERNMENT EFFORTS Senator Loren Legarda renewed her call for the promotion of baybayin by using it in government logos. The event was attended by teachers and students from public and private elementary and high schools in the DepEd Division of Rizal and Antipolo. a maginoo of Tondo.” They are also the oldest known deeds of sale for land in the Philippines. Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino. “Document A is dated February 15. 42 would be written ‘micalimandalawa’ (two towards the fifth decade).. National Archives of the Philippines executive director Victorino Mapa Manalo. among others. Herminio V. Some of the government offices and agencies that have already incorporated baybayin in their official logos include the National Museum of the Philippines. “All government agencies and offices must take the lead to further promote Filipino culture and traditions. public signage and even in local product labels. both Thomasians. reading materials about baybayin will be distributed to all public and private educational institutions and all government and private agencies and offices to instill awareness of the declaration of baybayin as the national writing system. Alberto Santamaria. they also demonstrate the involvement of women in business. UST rector Rev..” The UST baybayin documents are considered the “longest and most complete documents completely handwritten in baybayin. Dagohoy and UST archivist Regalado Trota Jose. at which time Francisca married Don Luis Castilla.’ an invaluable tool to reading these documents. artistic and/or scientific value which is significant and important to this country and nation” (Republic Act 4846 as amended by Presidential Decree 374). which provided us with a baybayin Rosetta Stone. “A pioneering study on baybayin in UST was made by Ignacio Villamor and Norberto Romualdez. who bought the land in Document B. Significantly. Meanwhile.The logos and seals of government agencies and offices should not only reflect the emblems of their functions and duties but also pride in Filipino heritage and traditions. . and instill the same in everyday life. Previously. archivist of UST. the documents were first published in Libertas. The documents give us a glimpse of life and commerce in early 17th century Manila. Fr. however. protection. at the Ynares Center. the Department of Education (DepEd) and the province of Rizal. most possibly the area around the Department of Health in Santa Cruz. and so forth. 2440 aims to declare baybayin as the National Writing Script of the Philippines and mandates the NCCA to lead the promotion. The measure also mandates local food manufacturers to inscribe baybayin and their translation on containers or labels. a maginoo of Dilao. Due to their fragility. preservation and conservation of the baybayin. “Document A documents the sale of tubigan (irrigated land) by Doña Catalina Baycan.4 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 transacted in 1613 (labelled as Document A) and 1625 (labelled as Document B).” part of a compilation of baybayin documents regarded as the “biggest collection of extant ancient baybayin scripts in the world. The baybayin documents were first shown in public during the tricentennary of the university in 1911. In 1629 Luis Castilla sold The unveiling of the marker declaring the baybayin documents of UST as National Cultural Treasure was led by NCCA chairman Felipe de Leon Jr. to Doña Francisca Longgad. ‘micatlong lima’ was then correctly read as 25. the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). and signing papers. cultural. while Document B is dated December 4. who published his work in 1938 in the UST journal Unitas. “When UST acquired this land. the Central Seminary building. The study was deepened by the work of Fr. “Don Andres Capiit. until further research showed that in Old Tagalog.P. Replicas. They were both summarized in Spanish in 1629. departments and offices to incorporate Baybayin in their official logos. 1625. may be viewed at the archives’ office on the fifth floor of the UST Miguel de Benavides Library. Moreover. The UST is the only school in the country to have NCTs. while Romualdez was eventually made chairman of the Philippine Commonwealth’s Committee on National Language. According to Academia. That same year. and UST’s open spaces. Thus. by Doña Maria Silang. Legarda also shared that she has filed measures in the Senate that aim to promote and preserve baybayin. and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). A National Cultural Treasure is described as “a unique object found locally. and newspaper and magazine publishers to include baybayin translation of their official name. which occasioned some contestation. public facilities. which was organized by Taklobo Baybayin Inc. which was revised in 1922. Blancas and Tomas Pinpin. the National Archives of the Philippines. Villamor became the first Filipino president of the University of the Philippines (1915 to 1918). the proper documents passed on to form a hefty volume of 17th century papers in the UST Archives. Senate Bill No. strengthen Filipino identity. Antipolo City. a district in the vicinity of today’s Manila City Hall. married Doña Francisca Longgad. local government units (LGUs) to use baybayin in their signage for street names. on November 22. Document B documents the sale of irrigable land in the area of Mayhaligue. O. 2014. The four others include the UST Main Building. according to Fr. expressing a number from twenty onward to another number was achieved by counting the next higher decade and affixing the lower number. 1899 mandates all government agencies. 1613. during the fourth Baybayin Festival Rizal. in 1918. the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP). “The UST baybayin documents provide us with an insight on how much more prevalent was the use of baybayin. accounting.” said Legarda. Senate Bill No. For example. the National Library. some land to UST. a maginoo or principal of Tondo. it was generally thought that baybayin was limited to writing love poems. at a time when UST was still a fledgling school. the UST international bulletin (October 2014). Capiit must have died between 1613 and 1625. Castilla therefore showed as proof of ownership Documents A and B. made by sculptor Julie Lluch. /Photo by Roel Hoang Manipon . Bataan.The new bronze statue of 19th-century Tagalog poet Francisco “Balagtas” Baltazar was unveiled in Orion. ang halos lahat ng deklaradong national heroes ng Filipinas ay puro mga patriots. para sa pagsulong ng kamulatan ng ating mga kababayan. a park was under construction. Jr. where the neighborhood children play among the ashen sand. What we want now is to also have a model for our youth.” (We wish that the whole Philippines will distinguish our writer) Almario said. Manila. para rin mag-aral and magbasa. including part of the bay still to be reclaimed. At nais naming na si Balagtas ang maging modelo ng gayong uri ng bayani. near the altar. mga heneral.” (Because you would notice. and President Manuel L. stirring up the usually quiet neighbourhood and indicating the importance of the event. mga martir. Quezon in the province of Quezon. not because he died or suffered for the country. or the Garden of Balagtas is envisioned to serve as a “cultural park” with native plants and trees. seemingly in deep thought. “Gusto naming itangi ng buong Filipinas ang ating manunulat. he was perhaps the least commemorated and there was no decent monument of him. The new bronze monument portrays the poet seated beside a table. Antonio Raymundo. a hero admired because of his creative genius. National Artist for literature and chairman of the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) Virgilio Almario. from the depiction of Balagtas by National Artist for visual arts Carlos “Botong” Francisco in his mural that was originally installed at the Manila City and now owned by the National Museum of the Philippines. “Kung mapapansin mo kasi. the sun disperses its first light. upon the suggestion of Almario. Garcia. a destination for tourists and literature lovers. Romulo along United Nations Avenue. For Balagtas. Bataan governor. Ang gusto natin ngayon ay magkaroon din tayo ng isang modelo sa ating mga kabataan na isang bayani na kahahangaan dahil sa kanyang malikhaing talino.6 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 Intensifying the L The Commemoration of Balagtas and the Launch of National Literature Month Text and photos by Roel Hoang Manipon Manila Bay. she took inspiration. Jr. ngunit inihandog ang kanyang talino. Jose Abad-Santos and Cayetano Arellano on Padre Faura Street. the families and lovers watch the sun rise on the breakwater. the most beautiful monument to Francisco “Balagtas” Baltazar first saw golden light here. Manila. his great talent. A library is envisioned so that the park is “hindi lang hardin ng pagmamahalan kundi hardin din ng karunungan” (not only a garden of love but also a garden of knowledge) and those who will visit “‘di lang mamasyal. On the early morning of March 30. almost all of the declared national heroes of the Philippines were patriots. While regarded a hero. and the fishermen cast their nets out in the sea. KWF commissioned Julie Lluch to do the monument. We wish Balagtas to be the model for that kind of hero.) Almario said these to hundreds of young participants of the youth camp Kampo Balagtas. Almario wished it to be national park. martyrs. for the advancement of our countrymen’s consciousness.” (not only lounge around but also to study and read) A big plan of the KWF and the municipal government are finding the remains of Balagtas and their re-internment at the park. Surrounding the monument. is where the sun sets most beautifully in the sprawling metropolis. from the vantage point of Roxas Boulevard and the districts of Malate and Ermita. 2015. The 19th century poet is widely considered the greatest of poets in Filipino and one of the greatest writers in the Philippines. whose metrical romance or awit Florante at Laura is included in the high school curriculum. It lightly gilds the shore of Wawa. When the reclamation and landscaping are finished. according to Almario. a quill in one hand and looking at the sea. but he offered his talent. But in the town of Orion in Bataan. which immediately began at the . ang kanyang dakilang talino. Carlos P. mayor of Orion.. those killed for the country. The Hardin ni Balagtas. hindi naghirap sa kung anuman para sa bayan.. and Albert S. as it was unveiled in the presence of cultural and local government officials including National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) chairman Felipe de Leon. hindi nagpakamatay sa bayan. The prominent sculptor did the monuments of Apolinario Mabini for the 150th birth anniversary celebration. a coastal barangay of Orion. generals. which is now in Tanauan. The recently unveiled monument was “para tunay na mailuklok natin sa tumpak na dambana ng karangalan ang ating bayaning manunulat” (to truly place our writer-hero in his right shrine of honor). Batangas. mga napatay para sa bayan. a province northwest of the Philippine capital and which hugs the northern portion of the bay. It is a popular belief in Orion that the Balagtas remains are buried at the Saint Michael the Arcangel Parish Church. It has garnered reception and recognition in different levels of society— from the international field to the ordinary corners of the home. International Day of the Book or World Book Day. several writers’ workshops are being held.” (This is just the second time KWF traveled to Bataan) he related. many literature-related events fall under April such as the birth and death anniversaries of literary icons Emilio Jacinto. ang mahigit na mahabang panahon sa buhay ni Balagtas ay dito naganap sa Udyong. it was here in Udyong. Almario made it a point to pay tribute to Balagtas in a significant way. na tayo ay may panitikan. Mula noon hanggang kasalukuyan.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 7 Light of Literature Orion Elementary School after the unveiling of the statue. as human. which falls on April 2. including Orion. kahit sa Pandacan sinasabing sinulat niya ang kanyang Florante at Laura. Also.) Almario expressed many big plans for the commemoration of Balagtas as well as in the efforts of promoting Philippine literature in general. in Balanga and Udyong.” (Our literature has gone a long way. Nick Joaquin. Simula sa araw na ito. lalo na ang dalumat ng pagkabansa. and he hopes that by the third time they will celebrate Araw ni Balagtas it comes to fruition. ang panitikan ang isa sa mga pangunahing sanggunian ng pagkatao ng mga Filipino. According to poet and officer in charge of the Sangay ng Edukasyon at Networking of KWF John Enrico Torralba: “Sa kasaysayan. literature is one of the primary guides in shaping Filipino identity and humanity. These literary works are not necessarily revolutionary and patriotic. One universally accepted attribute of literature is its ability to provide elevating and edifying experiences which enlarge our horizons and enhance us as a people. Literature mirrors and illustrates what we are and where we are going. From the olden times until now. The town. sa tingin ko. In the Philippines. but also works even by sheer beauty and deepness of thought that came to define us as a people. Here. Dito niya nakatagpo ang kanyang naging kabiyak na si Juana Tiambeng. Last year. he wrote some of his masterpieces and died on February 20. literature also has a vital role in turning the course of history and shaping society. The uses and roles of literature are multitudinous and multifarious. from critics with the most discerning tastes to the ones who just want diversion) he further explained. He met his wife Juana Tiambeng here. mula sa maseselang panlasa hanggang sa simpleng pagkalibang. Aside from Araw ni Balagtas. May pagtanggap at pagkilala na sa iba’t ibang antas ang lipunan—mula sa mga internasyonal na larang hanggang sa mga karaniwang sulok ng mga tahanan. is said to be close to Balagtas’s heart. 1862. Balagtas lived a large part of his life. Paciano Rizal. and international literary celebrations including International Children’s Book Day. even though it is said that he wrote Florante at Laura in Pandacan. “Naisip namin ito noong nakaraang taon upang kilalanin ang pangyayari na kung tutuusin kahit ipinanganak sa Bulakan.) “Malawak at malayo na din ang naabot ng ating panitikan. Beginning today. ang pagdiriwang ng Araw ni Balagtas ay pambungad na ng National Literature Month. and World Intellectual Property Rights Day. “Ang kapangyarihan at kabuluhang ito ng panitikan ng mga Filipino ang siyang dahilan.” (We thought of this last year to give recognition to the fact that even though he was born in Bulacan. especially on the concept of nationhood. Since becoming KWF chairman. literature has been instrumental in the flourishing and promulgation of the goals of great persons as well as of the ordinary masses. Sumasalamin at naglalatag ang panitikan ng kung ano tayo at kung saan ang maaari nating kahantungan. A resolution has been sent to Malacanan Palace. the celebration of Araw ni Balagtas is already the introduction of National Literature Month) Almario explained. “Tinaon naming Abril dahil gusto naming magsimula ang pagdiriwang ng National Literature Month sa Araw ni Balagtas. naging kasangkapan ang panitikan sa pagsulong at pagpapalaganap ng mga adhikain ng mga dakilang tao at karaniwang masa. during this summer month. may sakit na pagkalito at pagkalimot ang maraming Filipino kung kaya’t kailangang ipaalam at ipaalala sa kanila ang kapangyarihan at kabuluhang ito. “Ito pa lamang ang ikalawang pagkakataon ng paglalakbay ng KWF dito sa Bataan. then called Udyong.” . These two events were held in commemoration of the 227th birth anniversary of Balagtas or the Araw ni Balagtas (Balagtas Day). he spearheaded commemorative events in three places closely associated to Balagtas. Edith Tiempo and Bienvenido Lumbera. ng pagiging tao ng mga Filipino. One is to make Araw ni Balagtas a national non-working holiday.” (We timed it in April because we want to start the celebration of National Literature Month with Araw ni Balagtas. kung bakit may Buwan ng Panitikang Filipino. Dagdag pa. na tayo ay Filipinong may maipagmamalaking panitikan. as in numerous countries in the world.” (In history. He was much pleased that another dream was realized this year—the declaration of April as National Literature Month. sa Balanga at saka sa Udyong. He was glad though that Bataan had declared Araw ni Balagtas a provincial holiday. ) Now. students.. among others. First. ipakita na mahal natin ang ating panitikan..” and that “national literature plays an important role in preserving and inspiring the literature of today and in introducing to future generations the Filipino values that we have inherited from our ancestors. Jr.” (Another objective is to encourage Filipinos. written in different Philippine languages. kung kaya’t may malalim at malawak na lawas ng mga akda ang Filipinas. the whole nation can highlight the importance of literature every year. is associated with the history and cultural legacy of the State.” Right after the establishment of National Literature Month. why there is a Philippine Literature Month. Overall. “Isang layunin ng pagdiriwang ay ipaalala na may mahabang kasaysayan. Additionally. the non-professionals. Even though the preparation for the celebration was rushed. which declares the month of April as Buwan ng Panitikang Filipino or National Literature Month. Bataan.” (Philippine literature is burning) Torralba said. ang nais na maabot ng selebrasyon ay mas malalim na pagpapahalaga sa ating panitikan. The proclamation states that “Philippine literature. and must be promoted among Filipinos. President Benigno Aquino III signed Proclamation No. it has a deep and wide body of works— and that it continues to be alive.” which is also a play on the phrase “I love panitikan. Foremost were the monument unveiling and the Kampo Balagtas from March 30 to 31. the camp gave A new monument of Francisco “Balagtas” Baltazar was unveiled on March 30. Garcia. 968 on February 10. mag-aaral. the professionals. the government’s overall agency on arts and culture.8 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 (The power and significance of Philippine literature are reasons. in my opinion. Antonio Raymundo. “Isa pang layunin ay hikayatin ang mga Filipino. which gathered around 500 Grade 8 students in the Central Luzon region and delegations from different indigenous groups of the country. at higit sa lahat. and there is need to remind them of literature’s power and significance.) He concluded: “Ay lab panitikan. that we have a literature we can be proud of. the government agency on the national language and other Philippine languages.” (To kindle Philippine literature further) he continued. KWF was able to draw a calendar of activities. at pagpapalawak ng pagkamalikhain ng mga Filipino sa pamamagitan ng tuloy-tuloy na produksiyon at promosyon. with support from the NCCA. pagpapalaganap. Jr. Sa kabuuan. “Nag-aalab ang panitikang Filipino. at iba pa na makibahagi sa pagpapanatili.) The line-up of activities and events consisted of established regular endeavors as well as new ones. the celebration hopes to foment a deeper appreciation for our literature and to show that we love our literature. in Orion. led by NCCA chairman Felipe de Leon. 2015. many Filipinos are afflicted with confusion and forgetfulness. teachers and others to take part in sustaining. National Artist for literature and chairman of the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino Virgilio Almario. 2015.) “Pag-alabin ang panitikang Filipino.” (One objective of the celebration is to remind people of the long history of Philippine literature—thus. With the theme “Si Balagtas at ang Kabataan” (Balagtas and the youth). mga propesyonal .” literally “fire of literature. KWF chose the theme “Alab Panitikan. Bataan governor. guro. di-propesyonal.” The theme also encapsulated the goals of the celebration this year. popularizing and disseminating Filipino creativity through continuous production and promotion. mayor of Orion. rushed through its firstever celebration. and Albert S. at ipakilala na patuloy na nabubuhay ang ating panitikan. .” (I love literature. attesting to his immense talent as poet-playwright and showing his advanced political leanings. was dedicated to her. Walang Sukat ang Bayaning Kabataan. The Manila Times College in Intramuros. tigsik. Manila conducted a literary journalism workshop with veterans that included critic and playwright Dr. The case impoverished the Balagtas family. It is very unfortunate that many of Balagtas’ awit and komedya were destroyed when his home in Bataan burned down. he was listed as “Francisco Baltazar. Balagtas was incarcerated. 1862. was staged at the University of the Philippines in Mindanao. The Klasrum Adarna session for teachers tackled “Pagtuturo ng Noli at Fili/Ibong Adarna” in Makati City while the “Folk on Badiw: Ibaloy Legacy to Poetry and Music” was held at the University of the Philippines in Baguio City with National Artist for music Ramon Santos as guest of honor. . Isa ding mungkahi ay ang pagkakaroon ng Gawad Alab Panitikan.lessons on first aid and martial arts. Bataan. Siyempre. A poetry reading by the Katig Writers Network was mounted at University of the Philippines Tacloban in Leyte and at the Northwestern State University in Calbayog City. language categories open for competition are Ilocano. in celebration of the hero’s death anniversary. among other things. Bigaa (now Balagtas). reflection and meaningfulness during this season popularly known for excursions and beaches. Ateneo de Manila University’s Ateneo Institute of Literary Arts and Practices held the High Fantasy and Young Adult Writing Workshop every Saturday of the month while the Bienvenido Santos Creative Writing Center of the De La Salle University held the Young Writers Workshop for very young children with literary inclinations. Bulacan. in Panginay. known as part of a triumvirate that ushered in the second movement in Modernism in poetry in Filipino. April in the Philippines will be a more enriching and soulful time. was given the lifetime achievement award. KWF Manwal sa Masinop na Pagsulat. etc. He was imprisoned in Balanga. nakaiisip na ng ilang malalaking gawain para sa susunod na taong pagdiriwang. Literary events for the rest of the month included Tertulya sa Tula: Isang Hapon ng mga Makata ng Taon every Monday at the KWF headquarters. where audiences had the opportunity to interact with the Makata ng Taon winners. Freelance writer Christian Ray Pilares was honored as Makata ng Taon in the poetry contest in Filipino for his poem “Pingkian. Pangasinan. the National Book Development Board spearheaded the celebration of the National Book and Copyright Day. but the affair did not prosper. Bicol and Mëranaw. the winners of Talaang Ginto: Makata ng Taon and Gawad Dangal ni Balagtas were declared. called V-Latanay. the Ortograpiyang Pambansa. La Salle-Bacolod was held in Bacolod City. The Old Tagalog abugida or baybayin was the focus of a summit in Lingayen. “Mas malalaki at bonggang uri ng mga gawain. La india elegante y el negrito amante. He is also considered to have changed the course of literature during the Spanish colonial period. tackling the issue of introducing the abugida into the school curriculum. From April 26 to 28. In Colegio de San Jose. Retorika. He attended Colegio de San Jose and Colegio de San Juan de Letran. During its opening. save for one saynete.” Rogelio Mangahas. where he wrote many komedyas for Teatro de Tondo from 1857 to 1860.” the introductory poem of Florante at Laura. he fell in love with Maria Asuncion Rivera of a wealthy clan in Pandacan. and Korespondensiya Opisyal was tackled at the Uswag Filipino!. Gumil Filipinas (Gunglo dagiti Mannurat nga Ilokano iti Filipinas) or Ilokano Writers Association of the Philippines held its 47th national conference at the Cubao Expo in Quezon City with the theme “Ang Papel ng Gumiliano sa Lipunang Ilokano. balitao. Also in Baguio City.” (Bigger and spectacular activities) promised Torralba on future celebrations. On April 23. at Anyo (LIRA) conducted the Lakbay-Panitik para kay Emilio Jacinto in Majayjay. the year Florante at Laura is said to have been published.” while Michael Jude Cagumbay Tumamac placed second for “Pananaginip kay Tud Bulul” and Francisco Arias Montesena third for “Bahagdan. With the newly declared Buwan ng Panitikang Filipino or National Literature Month. In Pandacan. where he wrote many poems and komedyas until his death in February 20. The manuscript of the komedya Orosman at Zafira was recently discovered. Balagtas was born on April 2. Negros Occidental. The Holy Week is not the only occasion that provides spirituality. There is no clear explanation on the change of surname. The Pambansang Araw ng Gawad sa KWF Timpalak Uswag Darepdep . Laguna. and featured cultural presentations and discussions on the importance of Balagtas’s life and legacy. On the other hand. the Iyas National Writers Workshop of the University of St. This year. the Davao Writers’ Guild and Young Davao Writers held Kumbira! which included a poetry reading. where he married Juana Tiambeng and raised eleven children. LIRA also had a poetry reading program at the Conspiracy Bar in Quezon City. He was sent to relatives in Tondo. He was admired by both Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio for the outstanding craftsmanship of Florante at Laura. to serve as house help in exchange for education. the reason of which is still unknown. Balagtas’ revolutionary political and social ideas were admired also by them as well as by poets of today. A Cebuano version of the play The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler. and was transferred to Tondo. Meanwhile. On the other hand. 1788. “Kay Celia. while in Davao City. The month also abounded in writing workshops. at the Bulacan State University. After the imprisonment. Nariyan ang mga pagkakaroon ng mga pambansang timpalak sa mga tradisyonal na anyo ng panitikan ng bansa gaya ng timpalak sa balagtasan. the metrical romance Florante at Laura. participated in by teachers. institusyon. He was freed on 1838. Manila. Cebuano. In 1835. the Filipino poets’ group Linangan sa Imahen. an annual seminar-workshop on language and literature for teachers. the Kapisanan ng mga Superbisor at Guro sa Filipino (Kasugufil) mounted the Pambansang Kongreso sa Wikang Filipino. Balagtas moved to Udyong (now Orion) in Bataan. Some of the activities were educational such as “Tradisyon at Modernidad: Isang Simposyum” of the University of Santo Tomas’s Center for Creative Writing and Literary Studies. and a translation seminar for teachers at the Western Mindanao State University in Zamboanga City.” This is also the name used in the marriage document when he married Juana Tiambeng in July 22. an exhibit and a book sale. following a complaint by a house help whose hair was cut off by Balagtas for unknown reason. from April 9 to 11. Isagani Cruz. a contest of the KWF for 12 to 17-year-old aspiring writers writing in different Philippine languages was opened. ambahan. He was again imprisoned in 1856. he went back Udyong. scholars. to Juan Balagtas and Juana Cruz. ninanais na buong bansa o karamihan ng mga sektor. 1842. researchers and students. Samar.” (The role of a Gumil member in Ilocano society). “Noong huling meeting sa NCCA. o organ- FRANCISCO “BALAGTAS” BALTAZAR Francsico “Balagtas” Baltazar is widely considered as the Prince of Tagalog Poets because of his masterpiece. 1991. illuminating the path for and make luminous the nation’s soul. but this cannot be ascertained. passed by the town and asked for the name of the place. 1847. Records show that the municipality was founded by a Dominican priest on April 30. a mispronunciation.P. What can we expect from people whose hearts and minds are into creating?”) As the sun shines bright that season. isasyong may direkta o di-direktang may kinalaman sa panitikan ay magiging bahagi ng mga susunod pang pagdiriwang.” Some Spanish soldiers. balitao. Visit www. was formerly called Udyong. One is a national contest on traditional literary forms such as the balagtasan. pointing to the ground. 7104. it is hoped that the whole country or most of the sectors. . pilasters that divide the façade into five segments and cornices that divide the expanse of the wall into two levels. not understanding their query and seeing a worm on the ground. In other words. or e-mail komfil. The pediment is semi-arched and ends into two small volutes before tapering down to the sides. Manila Bay from the shore of Wawa (above) and the town proper of Orion (below) THE KOMISYÓN SA WIKÀNG FILIPÍNO The Komisyón sa Wikàng Filipíno (KWF) or the National Language Commission. 1667.kwf.com. Another suggestion is having an Alab Panitikan Award. featuring side pillars capped by urn-like finials. said “Uod ‘yon. meaning “muddy. An important goal is to develop the Filipino language for national development and unity and at the same time to preserve and propagate other indigenous and regional languages. It is the mission of the KWF to formulate. There is a folklore on how the town got its name. developing. established by virtue of Republic Act. propagating and promoting the Filipino language and other Philippine languages. coordinate and implement research programs and projects to further the development and enrichment of Filipino as a medium of general communication as well as for intellectual pursuits. the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Of course. 132 kilometers from Manila. ambahan. another story goes.gov. so will the immortal words come alive and become dazzling. A concrete porte cochere has been added later into the structure. etc. O.The present structure was built by Father Jose Campomanes. institutions or organizations directly or indirectly connected with literature will take part in the coming celebrations. after an earthquake in 1852 destroyed a previous structure. Its façade is described as of barn-style Baroque. Sa madaling salita. gov@gmail. Orion is proud of producing Don Cayetano Arellano.” Udyong later became Orion. The Saint Michael the Archangel Church (top). BATAAN Orion in Bataan. signed on August 14. Ano pa ba ang maaasahan natin sa mga taong puro paglikha ang nasa isip at puso?” (In the last meeting at the NCCA. tigsik. expect that the future celebrations will be bigger and more beautiful.There is a four-level belfry. is the government agency tasked in conducting researches. who was born here on March 2. Call telephone number 736-2519 for more information. The locals. several big events were suggested for the subsequent celebrations.ph.10 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 ORION. Udyong is said to be derived from lu-ad and uryong. The most important heritage structure of the town is the Parish Church of Saint Michael the Archangel. asahang paganda nang paganda at palaki nang palaki ang mga pagdiriwang sa hinaharap. He was declared National Artist in 2003. He is widely considered the “Master of the Tagalog Novel” and his novels include Ama.M. also known for his penname Rio Alma. In these works. Major works include The Winds of April. Words and Battlefields (1998). He was declared National Artist in 1997. poet and teacher known for appropriating the English language to express. As founder and artistic direc- . His poetry was collected in two volumes. 1944). He put up an arm to his advocacy of Tagalog as a national language by establishing the Kapatiran ng mga Alagad ng Wikang Pilipino (Kawika) in 1958. on this Island Now. V. honoris causa. is a poet. its highest academic recognition. 1911 . Maganda Pa Ang Daigdig and Daluyong. and A Grammar of Dreams and Other Stories.V. journalist and teacher. U. now acknowledged classics of Philippine literature. FRANCISCO ARCELLANA (September 6. He founded the Galian sa Arte at Tula and the Linangan sa Imahen. He was declared National Artist in 1990. embody the author’s commitment to nationalism. In 1987. and the Baguio Writers Group. lectures. ALMARIO (born March 9. He was declared National Artist in 2009. He headed the NCCA as executive director from 1998 to 2001.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 11 Our Writers. WILFRIDO MA. M. Makinasyon at Ilang Tula. N. essayist. The Novel of Justice: Selected Essays 1968-1994. Look Stranger. including Peregrinasyon. the trilogy Doktrinang Anakpawis. GONZALES (September 8. and as a critic. Arcellana kept alive the experimental tradition in fiction and was most daring in exploring new literary forms to express the sensibility of the Filipino people. 1941) is a poet. poetry readings and creative writing workshops continue to influence his peers and generations of young writers. 1995) was a teacher and theater artist whose 35 years of devoted professorship had produced the most sterling luminaries in Philippine performing arts today. in his often severe examination of the self. Throughout his career that spans more than four decades. The Trilogy of Saint Lazarus (2001) and Galaw ng Asoge (2003). through his essays that provide insights into the craft of writing and correctives to misconceptions about art. He revived and reinvented traditional Filipino poetic forms. was one of the most important progenitors of the modern Filipino short story in English. conferred on him the Doctor of Humane Letters. essayist. His eleven novels. stands for Nestor Vicente Madali. through his significant body of works. Francisco gained prominence as a writer not only for his social conscience but also for his “masterful handling of the Tagalog language” and “supple prose style. literary historian and critic as well as a professor. translator. BAUTISTA (born July 9. was a fictionist. In De La Salle University. he has established a reputation for fine and profound artistry. lexicographer and cultural administrator. critic. which nurtured and mentored many writers. and is currently KWF chairman. Mindoro and Beyond: Twenty -One Stories. His first book of poetry. He became University of the Philippines’ International Writer-inResidence and a member of the Board of Advisers of the UP Creative Writing Center.” With his literary output in Tagalog.April 28. He has also redefined how Filipino poetry is viewed and paved the way for the discussion of the same in his books of criticisms and anthologies. Our National Artists VIRGILIO S. Una Kong Milenyum. he was appointed as UP Dramatic Club director and served for 16 years. Bayang Nagpatiwakal. whose N. CIRILO F. His books. and the society. fictionist and essayist. In 1947. was published in 1967. from the dramatic to the incantatory. 1898–June 17. Bautista continues to contribute to the development of Philippine literature: as a writer. LAZARO FRANCISCO (February 22. 1915–November 28. Work on the Mountain. even as he championed modernist poetics. The Bread of Salt and Other Stories. poet. his poetic voice soared from the lyrical to the satirical to the epic. Mga Retrato at Rekwerdo and Muli. Retorika at Anyo. the Iligan National Writers Workshop in 1993. Children of the Ash-Covered Loam and Other Stories. 2002). His major works include the poetry Summer Suns (1963). He pioneered the development of the short story as a lyrical prose-poetic form. Poetry and Politics: The State of Original Writing in English in the Philippines Today (1977) and The Francisco Arcellana Sampler (1990). He has been a constant presence as well in national writing workshops and galvanizes member writers as chairman emeritus of the Unyon ng mga Manunulat sa Pilipinas. His books include Selected Stories (1962). He was declared National Artist in 2014. Sa Kandungan ng Lupa. 1916-August 1. Seven Hills Away. editor. through his discovery and encouragement of young writers in workshops and lectures. 1999). he contributed to the enrichment of the Filipino language and literature for which he is a staunch advocate. He was also the moving spirit behind the founding of the Philippine Literary Arts Council in 1981. 1980) developed the social realist tradition in Philippine fiction.P. reflect and shape Philippine culture and Philippine sensibility. GUERRERO (January 22. as a teacher. The Bamboo Dancers. fictionist. he was instrumental in the formation of the Bienvenido Santos Creative Writing Center. and it was followed by many more. He has also long been involved with children’s literature. and a publisher at 32. a newspaper editor by the age of 20. My Brother. Hernandez’s contribution to the development of Tagalog prose is considerable. Joonee Gamboa. actors and designers. He trained and directed the new generations of dramatists including Rolando S. F. directors. who practiced “committed art. He was declared National Artist in 1982. The Forsaken House. is a sweeping work that captures Philippine history while simultaneously narrating the lives of generations of the Samsons whose personal lives intertwine with the social struggles of the nation. Balaybay: Mga Tulang Lunot at Manibalang (2002). can best be described as epic. when taken collectively. and Magkabilang Mukha ng Isang Bagol at Iba Pang Akda ni Amado V. BIENVENIDO LUMBERA (born April 11. first written while in prison. . He was a reporter at the age of sixteen. Perhaps. Romulo wrote and published 18 books. it is the consistent espousal of the aspirations of the Filipino—for national sovereignty and social justice—that guaran- tees the value of his oeuvre. It is commonly regarded that he is the first Asian president of the United Nations General Assembly. Taking up courses and graduate degrees abroad. writing so variedly and so well about so many aspects of the Filipino. 1980) was a playwright. Deep in My Heart. the most published outside the country. He wrote the libretto for The Tales of the Manuvu and Rama Hari. university president. 1917-April 29. Likhang Diwa (poetry in Filipino and English. He was declared National Artist in 2006. the Rosales saga. Mass. Pakikiramay (2004). Other works include Bayang Malaya. He also established the Arena Theater Playwriting Contest that led to the discovery of Wilfrido Nolledo. The Ballad of the Five Battles. His plays include Half an Hour in a Convent. he pioneered the concept of theater campus tour and delivered no less than 2. Mother America.500 performances in a span of 19 committed years of service. My Executioner. professor. Forever. then Philippine ambassador to Washington. and Cave and Shadows. and I See the Philippines Rise (war-time memoirs). director. consisting of The Pretenders. Wanted: A Chaperon. His novel Mga Ibong Mandaragit.” “Candido’s Apocalypse” and “The Order of Melchizedek. Aside from his handling of language. Three Rats. He is the forerunner in institutionalizing “legitimate theater” in the Philippines. His works include Likhang Dila. HERNANDEZ (September 13. and Revaluation: Essays on Philippine Literature. He was declared National Artist in 1973. the function of the writer is to act as the conscience of society and to affirm the greatness of the human spirit in the face of inequity and oppression. playwright and novelist. his major books include Tagalog Poetry. librettist and scholar. Hernandez. AMADO V. and Agunyas sa Hacienda Luisita.” He has written plays. His writings since the late 1960s. Our Strange Ways. Isang Dipang Langit. introduced to Tagalog literature what is now known as Bagay poetry. In Unity. is the first Filipino socio-political novel that exposes the ills of the society as evident in the agrarian problems of the 1950s. He was declared National Artist in 1976. Montano organized the Arena Theater to bring drama to the masses. Luha ng Buwaya. Guerrero made it possible for students and audiences in general to experience the basic grammar of staging and acting in familiar and friendly ways through his plays that humorously reflect the behavior of the Filipino. 2004) is regarded by many as the most distinguished Filipino writer in English. He was declared National Artist in 2001. he honed and shared his expertise with his countrymen. He was declared National Artist in 1997. including The United (novel). Jesus T. As a scholar. CARLOS P. He was the only Asian to win the United States’ prestigious Pulitzer Prize in journalism for a series of articles predicting the outbreak of World War II. Bienvenido Lumbera writes that Nick Joaquin’s significance in Philippine literature involves his exploration of the Philippine colonial past under Spain and his probing into the psychology of social changes as seen by the young. Philippine Literature: A History and Anthology. he used the nome de guerre Quijano de Manila. NICK JOAQUIN (May 4. Hernandez. Joaquin has also enriched the English language with critics coining “Joaquinesque” to describe his baroque Spanish-flavored English or his reinventions of English based on Filipinisms. He stripped Tagalog of its ornate character and wrote in prose closer to the colloquial than the “official” style permitted. D. 1903–March 24.. I Walked with Heroes (autobiography). Among his works are The Woman Who Had Two Navels. 1993). Rizal in Saga. He established a graduate program at the Philippine Normal College for the training of playwrights. and Frustrations. Sa Sariling Bayan: Apat na Dulang may Musika (2004).C. poetry. As dean of instruction of the Philippine Normal College. 1570-1898: Tradition and Influences in its Development. Emmanuel Borlaza. 1898– December 15. Peralta and Estrella Alfon. Almanac for Manileños. SIONIL JOSE (born December 3. In the fivenovel masterpiece. SEVERINO MONTANO (1915-December 12. 1932). short stories and essays including reportage and journalism.” In his view. By bringing theatre to countryside. He was declared National Artist in 2001. 1970) was a poet. and later minister of foreign affairs. As a journalist. 1924) is well-known as a novelist. technicians. actor and theater organizer. But ultimately. Condemned. Tinio. Hernandez: Tudla at Tudling: Katipunan ng mga Nalathalang Tula 1921-1970. Its sheer volume puts him on the forefront of Philippine writing in English. 1985) is well known for a career that spanned about 50 years in public service as educator. I Saw the Fall of the Philippines. a landmark aesthetic tendency that has helped to change the vernacular poetic tradition. exemplified in stories such as “Doña Jeronima. ROMULO (January 14.12 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 tor of the UP Mobile Theater. Tree. journalist and diplomat. Writing the Nation/Pag-akda ng Bansa. Manila. Langaw sa Isang Basong Gatas at Iba Pang Kuwento ni Amado V. A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino. My Manila: A History for the Young. soldier. pioneering the creative fusion of fine arts and popular imagination. and Po-on. and Behn Cervantes. novels. Amado V. poet. Gamitin Mo Ako.August 21. Mansalay. saying goodbye to a dear friend and so on.gov. Kristal na Uniberso. Such an oral tradition is commonplace among indigenous cultural groups but the ambahan has remained in existence today chiefly because it is etched on bamboo tubes using ancient Southeast Asian. he took on Teatro Pilipino. He used Doveglion (dove. 2011) was a short story writer and essayist. Dunung-Dunungan.e. Ginaw Bilog was conferred the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan in 1993. Oriental Mindoro. Storymasters 3: Selected Stories from Footnote to Youth.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 13 ALEJANDRO R. with a career marked by prolific artistic productions. He passed away in 2003. and The Alien Corn (1992). currency and passports. he had always focused on the neglected aspects of the Filipino cultural heritage. caused the change of language from English to Filipino in the country’s stamps. considered as the country’s best writer of comic short stories. and The Charmer’s Box and Other Poems (1993). Selected Stories. and the same ones explored by e. TIEMPO (April 22. lion) as penname. He introduced the reversed consonance rime scheme. Ana Maria. Adventures in Value”). The Portable Villa. He was declared National Artist in 1973. Most treasured of his collection are those inherited from his father and grandfather. 55 Poems: Selected and Translated into Tagalog by Hilario S. Ako. Joshua. ROCES (July 13. and Other Stories (1964). Tiempo is as morally profound. the Moriones and the Ati-atihan. fictionist. Already steeped in the wisdom that the ambahan is a key to the understanding of the Mangyan soul.ncca. He personally led the campaign to change the country’s Independence Day from July 4 to June 12. 1908-February 7. of craftsmanship and insight. poet. Her language has been described as “descriptive but unburdened by scrupulous detailing. poetic way.” In his innumerable newspaper columns.” She is an influential figure in Philippine literature in English. The ambahan is sung and its messages range from courtship. “Have Come. Ginaw Bilog from Kalaya. what distinguishes the rich Mangyan literary tradition from others is the ambahan. Her works include the novel A Blade of Fern (1978). Subsequently. Roces brought to public attention the aesthetics of the country’s fiestas. sources of inspiration and guidance for his creative endeavors. Tinio’s chief distinction is as a stage director whose original insights into the scripts he handled brought forth productions notable for their visual impact and intellectual cogency. Together with her late husband. not only on bamboo tubes but on old notebooks passed on to him by friends. He was declared National Artist in 2003. Villa’s works have been collected in Footnote to Youth. Am Here. . Poems 55. Her poems are intricate verbal transfigurations of significant experiences. and Larawan. Francia. It was to Teatro Pilipino which he left a considerable amount of work reviving traditional Filipino drama by restaging old theater forms like the sarswela and opening a treasure house of contemporary Western drama. He was declared National Artist in 1997. Bait. critic and translator. notably. asking for a place to stay. which has produced some of the country’s best writers. Poems by Doveglion. A common cultural aspect among cultural communities nationwide is the oral tradition characterized by poetic verses which are either sung or chanted. TINIO (March 5. The Native Coast (1979). Edilberto K. thespian. the poetry collections The Tracks of Babylon and Other Poems (1966). JOSE GARCIA VILLA (August 5. He was instrumental in popularizing several local fiestas. 1924May 23. He is known for his widely anthologized “My Brother’s Peculiar Chicken. and recovered Jose Rizal’s manuscripts when they were stolen from the National Archives. She was declared National Artist in 1999. pre-colonial script called surat Mangyan. 2011) was a poet. Poems in Praise of Love: The Best Love Poems of Jose Garcia Villa as Chosen By Himself. sarswelas Ang Mestisa.” received critical recognition when it appeared in New York in 1942. 1997) was a playwright. Ang Kiri. cummings in the poem he wrote for Villa (“Doveglion. and the short story collection Abide. teacher. A Trick of Mirrors) among his works were the screenplays Now and Forever. 1919. The Essential Villa. including the comma poems that made full use of the punctuation mark in an innovative. the very characters he attributed to himself. He kept scores of ambahan poetry recorded for posterity. ROLANDO S. Mir-i-nisa. eagle. His works have been published in various international magazines and has received national and international awards. one of the finest Filipino writers in English whose works are characterized by a remarkable fusion of style and substance. grew up in such a cultural environment. Tiempo. the musical. The first of his poems. As fictionist. a poetic literary form composed of seven-syllable lines used to convey messages through metaphors and images. EDITH L. teacher and literary critic. Aside from his collections of poetry (Sitsit sa Kuliglig. the ambahan poetry and other traditional art forms from our indigenous peoples will continue to live. 1997) is considered as one of the finest contemporary poets regardless of race or language. However. after staging productions for the Ateneo Experimental Theater (its organizer and administrator as well). Reference: NCCA Web site (www.ph) GINAW BILOG Manlilikha ng Bayan Ginaw Bilog was a Hanunoo Mangyan poet who vigorously promoted the elegant poetic art of the surat Mangyan and the ambahan. she founded and directed the Silliman National Writers Workshop in Dumaguete City. Bayad Puri and Milagros. giving advice to the young. Ginaw took it upon himself to continually keep scores of ambahan poetry recorded. Many Voices. Through the dedication of Ginaw. It was the excellence and beauty of his practice that claimed for theater a place among the arts in the Philippines in the 1960s. 1937July 7. ” He would like to think of “locality as intersections. his thumping feet. In the panel discussion “Locality in Asean Literature. at the Teater Kecil. He is also a respected columnist in the Jakarta Globe. writing speeches for Indonesia’s foreign ministers.” Founding festival director Abdul Khalik said the main objective of this festival. his facial expressions. The fourth Filipino delegate and member of the steering board of the festival was Jamil Maidan Flores.” The panel discussion. a Burmese surgeon. and myself. In 1993. He was also quick to add that he doesn’t like . using his body—his hands and fingers. publishers and literary critics from all over the world participated at festival held from March 15 to 22. Her lecture was entitled “How Literature Helps Building Freedom and Democracy in ASEAN” in which she underscored the role of literature in the Asean community.14 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 Questions and Conscience at the ASEAN Literary Festival 2015 By John Iremil E. is “to create a platform where writers and scholars from the member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations can get to know each other and exchange ideas on how they can contribute to the solution of the problems of society” and to “help build the ASEAN community. Reading about different cultures and societies through the writer’s perspective is indeed generating the capacity of readers on tolerance and respect on other viewpoints.” and there should be “engagements to create a locality” among writers and readers. with the author (third from left) Indonesian Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi graced the opening night and wished everyone to “spread understanding through literature. she was sentenced to 20 years in prison for supporting the prodemocracy movement in the then military controlled Myanmar.” The general lecture that evening was delivered by Ma Thida. performances and discussions. You have to write from a society. “Stories come from a place. now on its second year. a daily English-language paper. “Literature also helps readers to do selfanalysis of their beliefs and perspectives on everyday life. Indonesia. were cheering almost wildly while watching a handsome young man from Finland named Signmark singing.” Australian writer Michelle Aung Thin agreed with her and said. The Philippine delegation was composed of National Artist for literature Virgilio Almario. Fifty-nine writers. 2015. especially the young women.” she said. “Literatures in Digital Era”. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts gave us travel grants and the Philippine Embassy in Indonesia along with the festival organizers took good care of us. all free and open to the public. with the theme. writer and human rights activist. It was because he is deaf but is most eager to share his musical talent during the opening program of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Literary Festival on March 19. 2015. The literary festival features many workshops. Bicol poet Kristian Sendon Cordero.” Singaporean novelist Josephine Chia said. Taman Ismail Marzuki. Teodoro The audience. a Kinaray-a writer. his gyrating hips. from a certain time. a journalist whose byline is familiar in the Philippines in the 1980s and 1970s but for several years now is based in Jakarta. “I don’t think a writer can write in a vacuum.” Indonesian literary critic Manneke Budiman problematized the term “locality. “Questions of Conscience. in Central Jarkarta. Assistant Postmaster General Luis Carlos along with Felipe M. called B&B. bringing theatre closer to the hearts of the Filipino masses of his generation.” He shared to an international audience the history of literatures in the Philippines which have “always been revolutionary. is named Jose Rizal Manua. mentioned that the two novels of Jose Rizal are being read in their country. call 527-0108. Philately and Museum Division. Speak. which he funded with his own money and established while dean at the Philippine Normal College. He also said that 10 percent of the sales are e-books. Door 203. It is a living culture that refuses fossilization. nephew of Dr.. a Myanmarese writer who had so far authored 96 books. considered the longest-running play. Emmanuel Borlaza. is credited for professionalizing the theater industry in the Philippines with Arena Theater. My Morning Star and The Love of Leonor Rivera. in the panel discussion “Consumerism vs. Commemorative Stamp for the Birth Centenary of National Artist Severino Montano The NCCA and the Philippine Postal Corporation (PhilPost) launched a commemorative stamp for the 100th birth anniversary of National Artist for theatre Severino Montano at the Leandro Locsin Auditorium of the NCCA. Jr. The writer chooses what to make of it. Montano. I presented statistics on the Internet users in the Philippines.000 pieces were printed by Amstar Company. if not critical. The Montano stamp is classified as a “commemorative” kind of issue with a denomination of P10. 39.” The happy intersections between conscience and imagination will quicken us to create diverse and beautiful literatures that will make us—writers and readers—more human. Liwasang Bonifacio Manila.00 and about 65.” Saut Situmorang. Main Central Post Office. In fact. But Not My Sons Any Longer. Montano’s pioneering of the Arena Theatre has been one of the many changes in the Filipino arts scene in the 50s. readers and artists would meet. on March 12. he also highlighted the language issue and added that our literature “is peopled with ethno-linguistic groups who have kept their literary traditions alive and relevant among its own people even up to these days despite the relentless pursuits of the colonizers. de Leon.” Saut laughed and danced a little when I told him that in Kinaray-a his name is “dance. and can be freely used in any circumstance by anybody who works for it. Inc. The stamps are available at the Post Shop. Arena Theatre catered to grassroots audience. Lonely is My Garden. The panel discussion. The stamp measures 40 by 30 millimteres and was laid out by PhilPost in-house artist. I also learned that Rizal’s works and life are being read in translations in Indonesia and Vietnam. the Westerner and the ASEAN. Gabriela Silang.. he averred that bookstores are not only a place now to buy books but also a happy space where writers. 2015. Manila. Before he died in 1980. especially about how the mainstream and “elitist” newspapers in Jakarta branded their publications as “crap literature.” noted De Leon.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 15 the term “ASEAN literature” because this is homogenizing and that “localities” should always be on the plural form. The Philippine population today is 106. he was mentor to theater luminaries such as Rolando S. In 2014.” Being a Bicolano.” But he was happy to share that today their Web site has already many followers and their publications have many subscribers thus becoming “mainstream.4 million and those who have access to electricity is 83. the capitalist and the slave. Of course. one of the Indonesian delegates. It is also in this panel that U Kang. Victorino Serevo and Ryan Arengo of the NCCA Secretariat. For my part. Philippine literary writing has a pantheon of writers and intellectuals who through years of colonization after colonization have questioned and raised arms against the status quo or the prevailing order of their time. is a place where people can drink beer and enjoy literary events such as poetry readings everyday. talked about the Web site of e-books he founded called Multi-media Literature Foundation. a playwright and actor.” said this: “Imagination is available to both the rich and the poor. Or rather. Intramuros. Montano. At the festival. Jr. presented the commemorative stamps to Pedro Montano Ruenduen. a Master of Fine Arts graduate of Yale University. who represented the family of the late National Artist. His bookstore in Tokyo. That is roughly 18 million Filipinos living in the dark literally. Because of this trend. It has brought theatre arts as a form of entertainment and celebration of Filipino drama to the far flung barrios of the Philippines. Joonee Gamboa.” Japanese book coordinator and bookshop owner Shintaro Unchinuma noted that since 1997 book sale in Japan has declined. “Severino Montano executed a large-scale feat for the small people of society and the afterglow of his works continues to light the path of the new generation of artists. poets. where I read a paper. He was declared as National Artist for theatre in 2001. in the Burmese translation. It was a shame we were not able to meet him. Imagination makes even a commercialized product greater than any work by a serious but unimaginative writer. Imagination is present in solitary tower and in the marketplace. My Gentle Children. was entitled “Literatures in Digital Era. . For inquiries. NCCA chairman. the motive does not determine the work. Literary Works. a cult literary figure in Indonesia today. Parting at Calamba. Montano was a celebrated thespian and playwright during the 1950s. can we even talk about the aesthetics of e-publishing when many of our marginalized and poor Southeast Asian sisters and brothers do not have access to Internet for the simple reason that they don’t even have electricity in their homes? Cordero spoke in the panel discussion entitled “Radicalism and Moderation in Literature. Tinio. and Behn Cervantes. This is what I learned from the ASEAN Literary Festival 2015.4 million or 39 percent of Filipinos use the Internet but there is a study saying that majority of these users only use social media such as Facebook and Twitter and has little to do with reading e-books.3 percent. and playwrights. staged in more than a thousand times under the auspices of the Arena Theatre.” Almario. His works include Sabina. So. the Manila Metropolitan Theater stands as one of the finest example of Art Deco architecture and a recognizable landmark in the Lawton area.16 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 A New Chapter for a NCCA Acquires Metropolitan Theater Designed by Juan Arellano. /Photo by Oliver Rosales . “this is a very touching.” he stated. through the NCCA. 2015. Vergara.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 17 Heritage Structure in Manila By Roel Hoang Manipon T he Manila Metropolitan Theater (Met) is now owned by the NCCA. the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). “The Met was once a testament to the richness of Philippine culture and artistry. The national government’s agency in charge of arts and culture acquired the prominent heritage landmark in Manila for the sum of P270 million from the owner. In more ways than one. has taken the first step to restoring the MET to its former glory. a National Cultural Treasure. The Deed of Absolute Sale (DAS) was signed and the original titles were formally transferred on June 10. It will take some time. This marked a new chapter for the theatre.” On the other hand. de Leon Jr. historic occasion and milestone because the Met is one of the best. the Filipino people. “The Aquino administration.” The NCCA credits the national government and President Benigno Aquino III for this development. we see this as an agreement handing the Met back to its rightful owners. The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) earlier released the amount of P270 million from the National Endowment Fund for Culture and the Arts (NEFCA) for the acquisition of the Met. led by NCCA chairman Felipe M. but we are confident that the NCCA has the capacity to take on such a formidable task. Vergara said: “GSIS is privileged to turn over this extraordinary asset to the NCCA. and GSIS president and general manager Robert G. most creative products of Filipino artistic excellence. at the national social insurance agency’s main office in Pasay City. According to De Leon. This was announced by DBM Secretary Florencio Abad in late May of this year.” “We cannot claim to pursue national . but decades of neglect brought this beautiful landmark into serious disrepair. it is said that Arellano was inspired by the phrase. The National Museum declared the Met a National Cultural Treasure on the same year on June 23. performances were staged at the Met including the musical adaptations of Jose Rizal’s novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo by Ryan Cayabyab and National Artist Bienvenido Lumbrera in 1995. Sculptor Isabelo Tampingco made the carvings of local flora in the interiors. In designing the theatre. Otilio Arellano. American theatre design expert. adorned the ceiling. Arellano is known for the Met. the NCCA Board of Commissioners expresses that there is need for the Met. The works of National Artists Antonio Buenaventura and Nicanor Abelardo have also been performed at the Met. the Met hosted performances of zarzuelas. 1931. the Teatro del Príncipe Alfonso XII. Arellano was influenced by the neoclassical and eclectic styles. Marcos led an effort to restore the Met. for example. among flyovers. The project also received support from the non-government and private sector. there were lamps of capiz shells and pillars in the shape of banana leaves. Kabataang Barangay staged a show tracing the roots of the Filipino people through poetry. In World War II. the Met suffered damages. Local motifs were used. during the Battle for the Liberation of Manila in 1945.” to be restored according to the highest standards of heritage conservation: “This will indeed be an iconic building of Filipino heritage that affirms the vision of the NCCA that Filipino culture is a wellspring of global and national well being. 1888-December 5. Inside. concerts and foreign classics up to the Japanese occupation. Colorful walls. Lamb. To many people. At the balcony overlooking the entrance were National Artist Fernando Amorsolo’s murals The Dance and History of Music as well as Monti’s other statues. the fumes of traffic. built in 1926 and now housing the National Museum of the Philippines (NM). led by executive director Cecile Guidote-Alvarez the city of Manila and the GSIS signed a tripartite agreement to rehabilitate the theater. A restoration was conducted under the supervision of Arellano’s nephew. With the US Rehabilitation Act of 1946.58 square meters of the Mehan Garden were allotted for the new theater and construction started in 1930. but it was not able to bring back its glory days. the newly-formed Manila Historical and Heritage Commission came in to manage and supervise the restoration. described as “a great architectural landmark of the artistic and cultural creativity of the Filipino people. the Met saw another effort in restoration. Rock band Wolfgang was able to hold a concert in 2011. This effort led to a “soft opening” on April 29. the Met is in the Art Deco style. Arellano’s brother. the purchase of the Met is an important initial step towards the fullest conservation of the property by the NCCA in coordination with the concerned cultural agencies. colored glass window and iron grills depicting stylized birdsof-paradise. “On the wings of song. He was sent to the United States to study under Thomas W. bas reliefs and sculptures were interspersed inside the theater. and the Manila Central Post Office Building. Additionally. of Shreve and Lamb. With approval from the Philippine Legislature. With the auditorium’s original capacity of 1. The idea for building a theater in Manila was developed in 1924. A theatre existed in the area before. and the Met was inaugurated on February 4. presently the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP). declared it a National Historical Landmark in 1973. Already falling into neglect and disrepair. who lived in Manila from 1930 up to his death in 1958. The National Historical Institute. painted images of local flora in the main auditorium. The Met was inaugurated on December 10. There were several efforts in restoration and rehabilitation. But it was eventually closed in 1996 after prolonged disuse. However. Veering away from styles he was known for. In 2004. At the main lobby were sculptures of Adam and Eve by Italian sculptor Francesco Riccardo Monti. also built in1926. built in 1862 at the Plaza Arroceros but burnt down in 1876. song and dance called Isang Munting Alamat. and the NCCA. then First Lady Imelda R. the Met opened the following year and was immediately hailed as an architectural achievement. and thus began its dete- rioration and neglect. Up until the 1990s.” he added. bridges. Local flora and fauna as well were depicted in the stainedglass central window of the facade which served as signage and a way to bring in natural light to the lobby.” The Met also exemplifies his belief in incorporating native art forms and motifs in designs. 2010. 8.670. The building was eventually used by different agencies and sometimes misused. the Metropolitan Theater presently stands out with its motley of colors. particularly from the entertainment industry led by showbiz veteran German Moreno. it was closed down again . a performance from Pilita Corrales and an excerpt from the original zarzuela Baler sa Puso Ko by Isagani Cruz. commensurate with its status as a National Cultural Treasure and National Historical Landmark. Restoring the Met is befitting a national treasure that eventually would be an NCCA office for onservation and a center for arts and culture for use by the nearby students and the general public. According to the NCCA. He also designed the Central United Methodist Church (1932) and the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol (1936) in Bacolod City. operas. Arcadio. The walls were curving and sported patches of colors resembling batik patterns.” Glory and History In the district of Ermita. the Met was repaired. parks and other buildings. which are evident in his major works such as the Legislative Building. designed by prominent architect Juan Arellano (April 25.239. 1978.18 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 development if we fail at preserving our culture and heritage. then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo released P100 million from NEFCA for it. drama and film. with the performance of a senakulo. particularly images from Philippine flora. Having studied in the United States as one of the first pensionados in architecture. Other prominent artists contributed to the grandeur of the Met. In 2007. 1960). In the 1970s. With a program of music. both modern and romantic. with its impressive portico with Ionic columns. A frieze of mango fruits and leaves. The facade has a curving top crowned with pinnacles. The NCCA initially envisions a restored Met to become a center for arts and culture. as well as to serve as a venue for performances by the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. NCCA’s acquisition of the Met is said to ensure minimization or prevention of damage to the property in accordance to a related law. 7356. The Met remains today as “the only existing art deco building in its scale and integrity in Asia. 2015. which is to formulate and implement policies and plans to conserve and promote the nation’s cultural and historical heritage by supporting and promoting the establishment and preservation of cultural and historical monuments. or prevent damage or deterioration to cultural property. According to Section 9 of the National Cultural Heritage Law of 2009 or Republic Act No. or the NHCP law. It was considered as the country’s first “national theatre. /Photo by Marvin Alcaraz . Vergara signed the Deed of Absolute Sale and transferred the titles for the Metropolitan Theater. minimize. Additional space is planned for its needs in the implementation of the National Cultural Heritage Act. Prior to the finality of the sale. which defines preservation as referring to “all activities that employ means to control.” hosting cultural performances. social events. Its Western design is infused with Philippine motifs and elements as well as the creativity and craftsmanship of Filipino masters and National Artists. the Republic Act 10086. markers.” According to the NCCA. and where many Filipinos were inspired and made to dream. which is near the Met. with reference to other laws related to Philippine national cultural heritage. Recent Developments Interest in the heritage structure did not die down. 10066. and sites. and visual art exhibits. its purchase of the MET stems from its mandate under Republic Act No. the appropriate cultural agency may likewise match any offer made for the purchase of national cultural property.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 19 in 2012 because of ownership dispute between the city government of Manila and the GSIS.” The Manila city government respected NCCA’s decision and expressed support in the Met’s restoration. Manila mayor Joseph “Erap” Estrada announced the city government’s plans to buy the Met to restore it to its former grandeur and to house the Institute of Performing Arts (IPA) of the Universidad de Manila. with NCCA OIC-executive director Adelina Suemith and vice president of the Real Estate Asset Disposition and Management Office Apollo Escarez on June 10. names. the NCCA took into account the initiatives of the city of Manila on the Met. a place where Filipino artists were nurtured and launched their careers.” according to heritage experts. 2015. Gracing the occassion was Department of Budget and Management Secretary Florencio Abad. “the appropriate cultural agency shall be given the right of first refusal in the purchase of cultural properties declared as national cultural property. NCCA chairman Felipe de Leon. and GSIS president and general manager Robert G. Jr. with additional exhibition galleries and its theater and performance halls for use by artists and cultural workers as well as by students and the general public. or the NCCA Law. The NCCA finally decided to purchase the Met on May 14. In September 2014. In turn. Discovery. Celebration Cebu Celebrates the 450th Anniversary of the Finding of the Santo Niño de Cebu and a Heritage of Faith By Roel Hoang Manipon Photos by Marvin Alcaraz and Roel Hoang Manipon . Devotion. which is widely considered the biggest in the country. especially in the Visayan festivals. Like the women who do the sinulog dance outside the church. on April 28. and the Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo. My mother turned to the Santo Niño for help. a crewmember was surprised to discover the wooden image of the Santo Niño. This can easily be gleaned from the fiestas celebrated in his honor. She and other family members used to describe my edema and my eyes that were rolled up so they could only see the whites. He gave a Santo Niño image to Queen Humamay. where they made blood compacts with Datu Urrao and Datu Sikatuna respectively. The Santo Niño is one of the most popular Catholic icons in the Philippines.” Brainard’s story epitomizes the beliefs and practices of many Filipinos. a promise to the Santo Niño so He would intercede and save me. “I did not understand it then. the most densely populated area in the country. and not or rarely the stories. and proceeded to evangelize and baptize them to the Roman Catholic faith. and the Augustinian missionaries in the expedition began the Christianization of the islands. I was close to death. which can be grand. led by NCCA Subcommission on Cultural Heritage head Father Harold Rentoria. The Santo Niño feast day is also celebrated in other parts of the Philippines. It was one of the highlights of the 450th anniversary of the finding of the Santo Niño image called Kaplag. Magellan met the natives of Cebu led by King Humabon. They proceeded to Samar and Bohol. Other religious orders came. she would immediately whisk me to the Santo Niño Church to pray. which was multiple as the event was also meant to commemorate the 450th year of the presence of Augustinians in the Philippines and the fiftieth year of being a minor basilica or basilica . This scene in history is reenacted regularly in the Santo Niño festivals. A Kaplag executive committee was formed. I was born with beriberi.” recounts Filipino-American writer Cecilia Manguerra Brainard. the Catholic religion did not readily flourish as the baptized indigenous people lacked an understanding of what the baptismal rite meant and there was no further instruction for the reinforcement of the new faith. a disease caused by vitamin B deficiency. a Cebuano term for “discovery” or “finding. Other parts of the Visayas also celebrate the feast day—the AtiAtihan Festival of Aklan. forging an alliance. My mother carried me in her womb soon after World War II. and the surviving crew returned to Spain. Forty-four years after that first European contact. Andrés de Urdaneta arrived in Cebu on February 13. to oversee the celebration. although I do now. biblical or apocryphal. Her stories bear many similarities to other stories about miracles attributed to and vows to the Santo Niño. The Santo Niño icon of Cebu is generally considered as the one brought by Portuguese explorer and navigator Ferdinand Magellan in 1521.” She goes on to write: “Mama’s favorite story to me about the Santo Niño was about how He saved my life. The story of the coming of the Santo Niño to the country. sailing under the Spanish flag. and we would pray. and my mother gave credit to the Santo Niño for this miracle. 1565. OSA. However. A clash ensued. Even when I went to school in Manila and later in California. Magellan died during a skirmish with a group led by Lapu-Lapu of Mactan Island. that my mother has probably made a panaad. despite the elaborate and kingly wardrobe. She always reminded me that I owed my life to the Santo Niño. considered the first festival of the country. the expedition of Spanish navigator Miguel López de Legazpi and Fr.” organized by the Augustinian Province of Santo Niño de Cebu-Philippines in collaboration with different sectors. but did not land because natives were unwelcoming. before returning to Cebu on April 27. when she requested something to replace her local idols. who was born and raised in Cebu. His feast day on the third week of January is turned into festivals in many parts of the country. I survived the beriberi. is regularly retold during the festivities. has a long procession of the Santo Niño marked by both solemnity and jubilation. when he accidentally arrived in Cebu in March while searching for the much wanted Spice Islands and on his way to circumnavigate the world. my mother danced her prayer to the Santo Niño for my life. as executive director. about her mother and the religious icon in the essay “My Mother and the Santo Niño. The district of Tondo in Manila. the Spaniards established settlements named Villa del Santisimo Nombre de Jesús. and a prominent example is the Sinulog Festival of Cebu. particularly the devotion to the image of the infant Jesus Christ by Christianized lowland groups. whenever I visited Cebu. In a partially burnt hut. further contributing to the establishment of the Philippine identity as a predominantly Catholic country in Asia. renamed Juana. in which the Spaniards burned down several huts. especially in the Visayas.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 21 “S he used to bring me to the Santo Niño Church when I was young. Here. was claimed to be grander and the closest to being “authentic” or historically accurate. A recent reenactment in Cebu City. Cebu. that endears himself to many people.” published in the Sinulog 2015 souvenir programme. And perhaps it is because he is the first Christian icon to be brought to the Philippines. of Jesus Christ as boy or infant. The Sangyaw Festival of Tacloban City in Leyte commemorates in June the return of its patron saint after miraculously surviving a shipwreck during a voyage. The popularity of Santo Niño in the Philippines can be attributed to his cherubic and innocent appearance. when she was still suffering the effects of the war and was malnourished. Those days were gravid with events and activities ranging from the solemn and reflective to the festive and jaunty. theater-like structure in front of the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. particularly on the origin and propagation of the Santo Nino de The reenactment of the bestowal of the Santo Niño icon by Magellan to Queen Juana (above. to find our way nowadays to God). an open-air. 2015. 1965 and today. our hope. 1565. pagkaplag sa atong dalan ngadto sa Diyos karon (The finding of the image of our beloved Santo Nino. He is more than a witness because He is also a ‘silent worker. Quoting St. OSA. and final station of the reenactment at the Pilgrim Center (facing page). Bishop Emilio Bataclan. Rentoria said on April 23: “The Santo Niño. this served “to heighten our awareness about the Christian roots of our nation and the special place the Christian faith occupies in our culture and identity as Filipinos and the Augustinian legacy. left). I believe is a ‘silent witness’ of all that happened from 1521. DD. Everyday. DD. The celebration took ten days starting on April 19. pagkaplag sa atong tumong sa kinabuhi karon. naghagit kanato sa atong kaugalingon karon. challenges us to discover the purpose of our lives today. /RHM . and leading to the actual anniversary day of April 28. According to organizer Fr. in a letter. held from April 25 to April 28 at the Radisson Blu Hotel. explained how the Santo Niño is an important instrument in the April 19 novena mass: “The way to God the Father is through the spiritual childhood.’” The historical significance and scholarly dimension of the Santo Niño as well as the Augustinian presence and Catholicism in the Philippines were tackled at the Kaplag 2015 International Conference.22 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 minore of the Santo Niño Church. the exhibit of archival documents and photos at the Ayale Center Cebu (right). which happened 450 years ago. Each mass offered meanings and explained the relevance of the Santo Niño and the celebration to today’s Catholic Filipinos. Fr. during the novena mass on April 21. “Ang pagkaplag sa imahen sa atong minahal nga Santo Niño nahitabo 450 ka tuig ang miagi. Czar Emmanuel V. novena masses were held with different celebrants at the Pilgrim Center. Therese of Lisieux.” said Bishop Julito Cortez.” On the other hand. Alvarez. This history was supplemented by an exhibit “Ang Kaplag: Panaglambigit sa Katawhan ug Kultura” at the Ayala Center Cebu. while Regalado Trota Jose. Jr. on the other hand. Alvarez’s talk focused on the Child Jesus in early Christian literature. discussed the Augustinian heritage in the country. OSA. Archivist General of the Order of Saint Augustine. while Fr. Still fixtures in important Philippine Christian events. Sister Maria Luz Mejares. Aside from the conference. which displayed reproductions of archival documents from Valladolid. while Fr. launched together with a commemorative stamp issued by the Philippine Postal Corporation. Arnel Antonio Dizon. Another exhibit. acting as a galleon carrying the image of the Santo Niño. Fernando Martinez Rojo. OSA. On the other hand. These included the fluvial procession on April 27.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 23 Cebu devotion in our country. talked about the Augustinian general curia’s historical documents about early Christianization of the Philippines. explained the architectural characteristics of early Augustinian churches in the Philippines. several processions also marked the Kaplag 450 celebration. Joseph in Mandaue City and went to Ouano Wharf.. With about 20 participating boats and ships. Spain. OAR. A boat. Fr. of the University of Santo Tomas Archives. passed by Pasil in Cebu City. Kaplag 2015. Noted Cebuano scholar and historian Resil Mojares traced the developments from the finding of the image to the present-day devotional celebration. OSA. said to . and from the Archives of the Au- gustinian Province of the Philippines as well as vintage photos and postcards relating to the Santo Niño de Cebu. Emilio Quilatan. Dominador Besares. revealed the feminine presence of the Augustinians in the country. OSA. OSA. and Fr. more academic discussions as well as reflections on the revered icon were published in a commemorative book. on the Augustinian Order during the Reformation period. the fluvial procession started after an early morning mass at the National Shrine of St.. Maria Serena Diokno. Fr. chairman of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines. presented the historical background on the finding of the image of the Santo Niño de Cebu. Luis Marin de San Martin. delved on the Augustinian saints of the Orient and the Philippines.” Dr. in “Asa Makaplagan ang Senyor?” at the SM City Cebu’s Art Center. Jr. showed an expression of faith on the image and observances of devotions through paintings by Fr. most of them also traditional features of the Sinulog Festival. the solemn procession is one of the oldest traditions. welcomed by city officials and Sinulog dancers from the Cofradia del Santo Niño. The procession followed a designated route with its throngs composed government. this one was more refined. left). People on the streets waved their hands to the image as it passed by. which provides the spectacle and draws much media coverage. a solemn procession served as culmination of the celebration on Kaplag day itself. and all the while the other vessels blew their horns. Mounted in the afternoon of April 27. Urdaneta. The procession ended where it started—at the basilica. it was in the form of a dance-drama. The reenactment had three stations or scenes. and a winning Sinulog contingent performing during the closing salvo (left). /MA and RHM . On the other hand. the traditional folk gesture in Cebu. near the basilica. The “galleon” finally docked near the Pier 1. encased in glass and perched on a carro covered with flowers and being pulled by men. depicting the preparation for voyage and the arrival of Magellan in the Philippines. Unlike the festival reenactments. the grand reenactment was unique to Kaplag 450. It is said this was based on the writings of chronicler Antonio Pigafetta and Fr. The Santo Niño image is brought out of the church and into streets. civic and religious organizations as well as devotees. showing attention to details and avoiding garish costumes. participated in and witnessed by thousands of devotees yearly. During the Sinulog Festival. In Kaplag. A large prop of a galleon as well as several huts were constructed for the scene. the procession was smaller in scale but not in significance. under the direction of television and stage director Floy Quintos and with choreography by Cebuano choreographer Val Sandiego. The first station was at the Plaza Independiente. the reenactment of Magellan arriving in a galleon at the Plaza Independiente (above. despite the addition of the street dancing parade. as well as writings about Cebu in those times. reciting prayers. After a series of traslacion or the ritual transfer of the image. Students were employed for the show together with Cebuano actors and Sinulog performers. The second station was at Plaza Sugbo The solemn procession with the Santo Niño on the carro (top. left). near the historic Fort San Pedro.24 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 be near where the image was found. in recent years. affirming why the festival is the most anticipated and spectacular in the country as well as reminding people of a journey that involves sacrifice and faith that leads to hope and joy. in front of the basilica partially damaged from the 2013 earthquake. The Santo Niño icon was also canonically crowned by the Papal Legate Ildebrando Cardinal Antoniutti. Here also.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 25 A Sinulog street dancing contingent with the festival queen performed during the closing program of Kaplag 450 (above /MA). As culmination of the reenactment. showing Magellan’s encounter with Humabon and Humamay. in the spirit of the Child Jesus. the image was brought out of the basilica dramatically. performers reenacted the finding of the icon and the eventual building of the church and convent. Select dance groups enthralled audiences including winners of the Sinulog Festival street dancing parade. in time for the fourth centennial of the Christianization of the Philippines. Here. the queen received the image of the Santo Niño. who spoke about the importance of finding renewal through the Santo Niño and bringing the Kaplag celebrations closer to home. their baptism and the planting of the cross. The solemnity and the historical weight of the event were counterbalanced by a closing festivity also at the Pilgrim Center.” which was granted the following year. . a jubilant occasion with dancing. the last novena mass was celebrated with Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle. The basilica doors opened. the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines formally requested Pope Paul VI in 1964 to confer on the Santo Niño Church the title “Basilica Minore. bursting with lights mellowed by billows of smoke. At the Pilgrims’ Center. religious and cultural significance. in the last scene. accentuated by festival queens swaying and holding the Santo Niño icon up high. which many consider as the “cradle of Philippine Christianity” and “the perpetual sanctuary of the Santo Niño de Cebu. singing and fireworks. and Santo Niño de Cebu icon enshrined at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu in Cebu City (below /RHM) between the Cebu City Hall and the Magellan’s Cross Kiosk.” Because of its historical. from where the image emerged and carried to the stage. The Passion Lenten Traditions in a Nor Text and photos by Roel Hoang Manipon . in Paete rtheast Laguna Town . wedged in the middle of northeastern Laguna. It goes through the towns of Famy. The most interesting. The road trip is mostly scenic with the lake on one side. where one can find old paintings of Saint Christopher by Josef Luciano Dans (above). This is the eastern route to the southern Tagalog province that hugs the lower half of the Lake of Bay. Pangil. on the other. . they are more alive here. and the hills and mountains. the craft of the papier-mache. the capital of Laguna. all charming and quiet. perhaps. The religious images were being readied along the main street for the Maundy Thursday procession (previous page). Kalayaan. Although many of these practices are done in numerous places in the predominantly Roman Catholic country. Lumban and Pagsanjan.28 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 J eepneys ply the National Highway from Siniloan to Santa Cruz. usually hemmed with rice fields. the southern end of the Sierra Madre range. passing through the province of Rizal. The town. Paete. Pakil. I think. is Paete. popularly called Laguna Lake. The Saint James the Apostle Church of Paete (below). more spectacular. popularly known for its woodcarving and taka. is also known for its Lenten traditions. Moreover. tells of the life and suffering of Jesus Christ. The sun burnishes it with gold and russet during sunset while the moon rises behind it. The facade is ornate with carvings of leaves and flowers. It is surrounded by the municipal hall. Like many churches in the Philippines. he was drenched in fake blood that dripped to the white loincloth and turned magenta. The traditions are practiced by two churches—the Roman Catholic and the Philippine Independent Church. With bright blood and glistening costumes. Still. suggesting the use of a food coloring agent. I arrived in Paete on Maundy Thursday. It was late afternoon. I went to the old stone church. a sinakulo was concluding. Camarines Sur and even Metro Manila. the Slayer of Moros). The Church of Saint James the Apostle (Santiago Apostol) faces the lake. the major ones are held during Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. In between. The small plaza sees the most activities during this time. The roof is embellished with series of finials shaped like The image of Santa Juana The icons for the Good Friday procession passed by the church to be blessed by the parish priest . While the Holy Week traditions start on Palm Sunday. The Aglipayan Church is a breakaway group from the Catholic church. Just after the sinakulo. also spelled as cenakulo. composed of members of the community. exposing the stone make and affecting great age. the Catholic church and Aglipayan church. as many churches in this area do. the foothills of Sierra Madre. the Paete River. Paete is abuzz. Above the door is the relief of St. they are done almost twice as much. and at the town plaza. it was intense and a bit unsettling to see. which is still practiced in several parts of the country such as Rizal. and its being august owes much to the lack of paint. mingling with the crowd and having pictures taken. the Maundy Thursday procession was gearing up. It looks petite. Thus. Gregorio Aglipay. Jesus Christ had already been crucified. It is said that Paete has many Aglipayans. in an attempt to establish a national church away from Spanish colonial control. James. The heritage church suffered damages and had unergone a series of rebuilding since the first stone church was erected in early 18th century. A rivulet. or the passion play. James. depicted as Santiago Matamoros (St. Pampanga. death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Laguna. The cast then gathered onstage and immediately dispersed. and a sprawling front yard. separates it from the Catholic church.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 29 more dramatic or more elaborate. I was introduced to the Lent of Paete. The sinakulo. While most of Metro Manila slows down almost to a halt and many of its residents stay home or fly to the provinces and beaches starting Maundy Thursday. The sinakulo is a major part in the commemoration of the suffering. formed in the early 1900s and co-founded by a former Catholic priest. attributed to local artisans. popularly called the Aglipayan Church. Bulacan. many without a background in theater. as many tourists do. April 2. Paete’s is perhaps the oldest structure in town and is definitely a major heritage structure. 2015. with the mountains as backdrop. and is mostly staged by local organizations. Together with two other criminals similarly tortured. its practices and beliefs are dominantly Catholic. the statues of saints and Biblical characters were lined up along Juan V. earth and hell. at the Plaza Edesan. This was what many people knew about for many years until it was brought down from the wall. and at the plaza. Each carried their own lamps. which depict the saint carrying the child Jesus across the river. Saint Christopher paintings. The salubong is enacted three times: at the market. are made to move like puppets. The Roman Catholic and the Aglipayan processions are mounted simultaneously. The float of the Hesus sa Banal na Eukaristiya or Jesus of the Holy Eucharist was laden with real bread.30 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 curly waves. The line-up of religious statues took up a whole block of the street riddled with quaint shops. three imposing paintings are most noticeable. wood carvings. While joining the Maundy Thursday procession. One is painted on wood panels. which is chanted. Chatty and amiable. One can only surmise the reasons why a new painting was done to cover the original mural. People thronged to the place. considered older. fresh flowers. he invited us in and related that he was a production and costume designer for films such as Halimaw sa Banga. some of the old treasures of the church—two paintings of Saint Christopher and a depiction of heaven. equally attractive and impressive. literally “meetings. decorated with small ball lanterns made of paper. Quesada Street. attributed to Paetenian painter Josef Luciano Dans. in different shapes and designs. are interesting. that illumined the images through the dark night. When movie production slowed down. They illumined the whole town center as they wind their ways through the narrow streets. revealing a mural underneath. Upon entering the church. he packed his bags. the saints were rendered differently. and the narrow street looked like a fair. and stopped for a while. Lino Dalay. What is plain to see is the paintings have suffered damage and are in dire need of conservation. and went home to Paete. costumes and props. Outside. where Mary wipes Jesus’s face. telling The Maundy Thursday procession with many images showing signs of grief and sorrow the story before the crucifixion. where Veronica wipes Jesus’ face. They were finely dressed and were placed on carrozas or floats that were bedecked with ruffles. Even the cordon was made of pieces of bread strung together. The owner.” the points where two characters/images meet and sort of have a dialogue. was watching the procession with her old mother. tassels. punctuated with grapes. who also shows her own impressions. While both depict a similar scene. The Paete procession is distinctive with salubongs. There were about fifty or more icons. The images. we chanced upon a very quaint shop. Paete’s major road named after its first mayor. where Veronica shows the three miraculous impressions of Jesus’ faces on her veil to Mary. particularly the heads and arms. The processions on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are like pageantry. Even the heavens participated. rib- bons. etc. souvenir stores and eateries. The Maundy Thursday procession is inspired by the Passion of the Christ. The sunset painted the sky mauve and pale fuchsia while a little later the mountains let go a spectral moon. opening a shop called Ang Buhay at . ” “Mahal na Senyor” or “Senyor Sepulkro. It has the only open space in the town center.” the image had been readied for the Good Friday procession. home decors. covered with gravel and accentuated with plants and trees. which has movable parts. particularly batikuling. it is placed inside a makeshift tent or kubol of wood and white cloth for the pagsusuod or smoking. a fruit Paete is also known for. The clothes are reverently removed and the head covered with a scarf. and agua de coloña.” The Santo Entierro is said to be the oldest statue in the town.” It is treated with utmost care as if it is a real holy corpse. is made to sit on a chair. toys. It has the tallest tree in the town center..2015 • Number 2 • Agung 31 The Good Friday procession went around the Paete town proper starting twilight Hugis ng Paete. made with either paper or wood. The bathing water is a combination of lambanog. the folktale tells. passed on from one generation to another. the Santo Entierro is privately owned and cared for by a family. Just across the street. he calls her Ang Babaeng Kumurot. even older than the church. Paete’s most important statue had undergone ceremonies in preparation for the procession such as ritual “bathing. The place is bursting with colorful curios. The home was open for anyone who wanted to pay respects or pray. Beside Ang Buhay at Hugis ng Paete is a delightful coffee shop and gallery. The chairs were of the batibot kind and old capiz-shell windows were repurposed as dividers. etc. The café has a spacious front yard. It is carefully cleaned with balls of cotton. Unnamed. the image. Some say she was the Virgin Mary in disguise. Dalay insisted she was a sister of the two diwatas of popular legends. The Santo Entierro . a house sheltered the Santo Entierro. the strong arrack made from coconut blossom sap of the Tagalogs. It is said to have been brought by Spanish friars from Mexico in the sixteenth century. a dentist and art lover. which staged his original play based on the legend on how the lanzones or langsat. During the bathing on Holy Wednesday. boasted the owner. The shop specializes in wood carvings and taka products as well as in using recycled materials. Afterwards. Maria Makiling and Maria Sinukuan. literally “holy burial.” the statue of the dead Jesus Christ. which is more dramatic. the Woman Who Pinched. Popularly called “Senyor. Like most of the statues in the procession. masks. The handsome shack made of wood and reclaimed pieces of old houses was bright inside with paintings and sculptures. making the once poisonous fruit edible for the townspeople to enjoy. after days of vigil. the Kape Kesada Art Gallery. It was pinched by a mysterious woman. knickknacks. became sweet and edible. who was busy watching the procession. The owner or keeper is called “rekamadero. The owner also founded a community theater group called Buwig Teatro ng Paete. Each was introduced to the gathered people. Judaism. The predominant Christian denomination in the country is Roman Catholic.. The leftover bathing mix. surrounded by the boys. the one before the blood moon. the Philippines was the only predominantly Christian nation in Asia.32 Agung • Number 2 • 2015 is then smoked with incense or dried langsat peelings.” (He was flayed alive…) “Siya ay inihagis mula sa tore. animism and others. which take about five hours. it is said to be a replica made by prominent town sculptor Mariano Cagahastian Madriñan of his own original work.. More than 80 percent of the population is Roman Catholic. Aglipayan boys and men carried the Santo Entierro around the town (above. The religious statues or poons started to gather by the side of the church. who will bring it to church. At the same time. all in white shirts. their struggles. The statue is dressed in new clothes and covered with a glimmering blanket. left). These boys. the Siete Palabras or Seven Last Words were recited.. . namatay dahil sa katandaan…” (He was thrown into boiling oil. and the predominant religion in the Philippines is Christianity. at nang makitang buhay. Some belong to Christian sects that originated in the Philippines such as Iglesia ni Kristo and the Philippine Independent Church or the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (more commonly called Aglipayan Church). CHRISTIANITY IN THE PHILIPPINES Religion plays a central role in the life of the Filipinos. amidst billows of incense. is put in small bottles to be distributed among devotees. serve as pallbearers throughout the procession. was stoned and clubbed to death…) “Siya ay biniting patiwarik at hinati ang katawan gamit ang lagari…” (He was hanged upside down and sawed in half…) “Siya ay inihagis sa kumulong langis ngunit siya ay himalang nabuhay. Hinduism. with crystalline tears on the cheeks. dressed in black. The introduction included the horrific and eccentric ways they died. left). the Santo Entierro was parked inside the church. Muslims form about five percent of the population. Siya ang pinakahuling namatay sa mga apostoles. The Mater Dolorosa is another important religious statue of the town.. by the entrance. Several parishioners related their emotional journeys to redemption. Mater Dolorosa. was already rising above the church. the Santo Entierro is fetched by a group of boys and men. the Sorrowful Mother. dying from old age…) The moon. believed to be sacred and miraculous. particularly Protestantism. but miraculously survived. starting with the twelve apostles. the church was Religious images were impressively garbed for the Maundy Thursday procession (top. On Good Friday. He was the last of the apostles to die. with their own Santo Entierro and Mater Dolorosa. their testaments of faith. and retinue of boys. Encased in glass. Very old. About 10 percent of the population belongs to other Christian denominations and sects. Inside the church on Good Friday afternoon. Religious icons not included in the processions were displayed at the owners’ houses or yards (left). Before East Timor became independent from Indonesia in 2002. and when found still alive. As the sun set. Behind it was the Mater Dolorosa. About 90 percent of the population of the Philippines is Christian. the Aglipayans were at their own church. the Catholic statues passed by the front of the church to be blessed by the priest with holy water. which was exhibited at an international exposition in Amsterdam and received a gold medal in 1882. The praying of the novena accompanies all these. siya’y pinagbabato at pinalo hanggang mamatay.” (He was thrown from a tower. “Siya ay binalatan nang buhay. The practice is reminiscent of embalming traditions of Cordilleran ethnic groups. which was in luminous white. most of them bearing the faces of grief and mourning. When the introduction of the saints was finished. while the remaining practice Buddhism. including mine. A girl. which will meet in the middle of the churchyard. where people snatched up the flowers that adorned the carrozas. Maybe it was from the coming typhoon. The two processions went around the town center. Maybe it was the breeze from the mountain. A group arrived. there was a huge sign.” The Santo Entierro carriers formed a very tight group and swayed as they walked as if the Santo Entierro was dancing. particularly the Santo Entierro. we were at a junction in Famy. . At one in the morning. Quezon. to Manila. with peroxide blonde hair. like going through a maze. a miniature red taka horse. The poons not included in the procession were displayed on house fronts or windows. sacrifice and sanctity. opened to reveal a resplendent and brightly lit Santo Entierro. The younger boys made noise with instruments made of bamboo tubes or wood. who seemed to be with Down’s syndrome. a local beer brand which had become a rite of passage for many. meaning “rattle. and now of spectacle. I cradled a souvenir from Paete. It was uncharacteristically cold that morning. in which the male parishioners are separated from the female. The woman.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 33 The Catholic Santo Entierro being carried by boys and men as their form of sacrifice and penitence during the Good Friday procession. called matraka. ending by eleven in the evening at the town plaza. The Good Friday procession was a longer one. going through dark alleyways and streets. The man shouted at the woman for nagging or something. bought beer at a 7-Eleven store and drank outside. especially the Santo Entierro. After resting our tired feet and eating lugaw and tokwa. and the striking Mater Dolorosa. the logo of Red Horse. A couple arrived and sat near us at the bus terminal. the Paetenians would prepare for the Easter Sunday Mass. Drunk teenage boys lounged by a street island and a monument. After this. The boys eating balut at a stall was talking about a man who had just been stabbed. talking loudly and speeding off with their skateboards. Each group would escort statues of the Risen Christ and the Virgin Mary. from the Spanish matraca. was singing her lungs out at one dark corner. The child she was carrying began having tantrums. Many spectators and visitors followed both. taking different routes and seldom bumping into each other. a reminder of childhood and innocence. talked about leaving his boyfriend. By the dark road going to Manila. We took a jeepney to Famy to catch a bus going from Infanta. we decided to return to Metro Manila. PNU Balinsasayaw. the dancers danced to the song “Filipino Ako. 2015. who danced simultaneously starting four in the afternoon with other dancers in other parts of the Philippines and around the world. Philippine Ballet Theatre. More Than Dance. Manoeuvres. The AirDance Company at the BM-NCCA International Dance Day Festival 2015: Yugyugan para sa Kultura ng Bayan at the Aliw Theater . By six in the evening. Symmetry Dance. Korean Cultural Center. LPU Dance Troupe. Dance Theater Arts. Korean Cultural Centre. Yugyugan was participated in by hundreds of dancers including choreographers. Daloy Dance Company. Ridgepointe. Dances ranged from hip-hop to modern ballet to sinulog. Manouevers and Ballet Manila. Knapsack. The New Friends. Bayanihan National Folk Dance. Ballet Manila. Teatro Baile de Filipinas and the Dance Conservatory. NCD members Dolores Suzara and Victor Hao Cuenco led numerous dance groups at the Cebu City Sports Complex. In Cebu City. Hampton Court Ballet. Academy One. Filipino Tayo. school troupes and dance companies. The BM-NCCA International Dance Day Festival 2015: Yugyugan para sa Kultura ng Bayan was a whole day event starting at nine in the morning. ACTS Manila AirDance Company. Escuela De Baile de Santa Ana. Ana Emata School of Classical Ballet. and performers included Disco Jammers. Center for Movement and Music. Bayanihan National Folk Dance.” Held on April 29. Yugyugan was also a venue for dancers and dance artists to express their passion on the promotion of culture and the arts as the event advocates for cultural heritage preservation. Danspace. Ballet and Arts Centre. Lahing Kayumanggi ng Marikina. Ecole De Ballet Manille. Don Juan. prima ballerina and artistic director of Ballet Manila (BM) Lisa Macuja led the event at the Aliw Theatre in Pasay City. Ballet Baguio. Perry Sevidal Ballet School. In Manila.A Nationwide Dance Rally T he NCCA led the nation in a “dance rally” held in key cities of the country to celebrate International Dance Day and National Dance Week as well as to drum up awareness on cultural heritage. The NCD choreographed two to three movements for performers to perform uniformly during the countdown to the Yugyugan. Philippine Ballet Theater. Lakandula High School. Participating were The Dance Factory. Company of Ateneo Dancers. Team Dance Studio. Polecats Manila. The event culminated in a gala featuring special performances from AirDance. Type 1. Daloy Dance Company. BM organized the event in partnership with the Manila Broadcasting Company and Aliw Theatre. According to Josefina Guillen. Polecats Manila. Ianne Damian and Melanie Motus (IDMM) Ballet School. The Yugyugan para sa Kultura ng Bayan was organized by the NCCA’s National Committee on Dance (NCD). University of the Visayas Cheer Dance Team. head of the NCD. LPU Wildstyle. Negros Occidental. Angeles City National Trade School.Angeles. and Center for Culture and the Arts Theater. Holy Angel University. /Photo by Marvin Alcaraz University of Cebu Cheer Dance Team. Capiz. On the other hand. Other Yugyugan events were mounted at the SM City Iloilo in Iloilo City. Rosario. Batangas. Pampanga. University of San Carlos Dance Troupe and University of Cebu Dance Company. University of the Assumption. University of the Visayas Dance Troupe. performers and dance artists gathered at the Heritage District in the barangay of Sto. Rosario Elementary School. and the Alliance of Capampangan Choreographers. On the other hand. Louis University. Mandaue City College Sidlak Cultural Troupe. the Capiz Provincial Capitol in Roxas City. Achievers Special Education Center. Participating schools and organizations included Sinukwan Kapampangan. The celebration of International Dance Day was created under the auspices of UNESCO in Paris and held all over the world by the International Theater Institute (ITI) on April 29.2015 • Number 2 • Agung 35 The grand finale of the Yugyugan event in Cebu City. Cebu Normal University Dance Troupe. the Philippine National Dance Week is celebrated every fourth week of April every year as declared by Proclamation No. Rizal. led by NCCA NCD vice head Peter De Vera. St. twenty groups performed to an audience of about 860 at the Plaza Independencia in Lipa City. Sto. University of San JoseRecoletos Dance Troupe. Systems Plus College Foundation. Mandaue City College Dance Club. Baguio City. University of Southern Philippines Foundation Dance Troupe. Angeles University Foundation. Robinsons Place Bacolod in Bacolod City. Angono. In Angeles City. Cebu City Dancesport Team. ICT School. City College of Angeles.” Yugyugan event in Lipa City National Committee on Dance head Josefina Guillen Prima ballerina and Ballet Manila artistic director Lisa Macuja . 154 “to bring together dancers to demonstrate and realize the function of dance in the society and in the rest of the world. Mantawi Integrated Dance Company. ph • Web site: www. Manila. dated June 3.ncca.Empowering the Filipino Imagination Send your comments and inquiries to The Editor. Subject for postal inspection . info@ncca. 755-02 NCR. 1002 Intramuros. 2002.gov.ph BUSINESS MAIL: Entered as second-class mail at Manila Central Post Office under Permit No. Public Affairs and Information Office 633 General Luna Street.gov. NCCA.com. Tel. (+63 2) 527-2192 to 96 • Fax (+63 2) 527-2191/94 • E-mail: ncca.paio@gmail.