South Cotabato, Philippines –The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) hosted a groundbreaking Summit of Arts and Culture Advocates on August 19-20, 2024, at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (TIG). This two-day summit gathered over 100 leading arts and culture advocates from various communities across the nation, focusing on the vital role of arts and culture in national development.
South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., who delivered the keynote address at the grand opening, inspired participants with his powerful message.
“Integrating culture and the arts into governance is not just a necessity but a responsibility. It is through these that we foster holistic development and strengthen our national identity,” he said.
Governor Tamayo’s presence at the summit highlighted his commitment to supporting the arts sector and promoting cultural advocacy as a key element of national progress.
“I am honored to stand before you today, united in our shared goal of elevating arts and culture in our country. Together, we can ensure that our rich cultural heritage remains a driving force in our nation’s growth,” he emphasized.
In addition to his motivational address, Governor Tamayo extended an invitation to summit participants to join the upcoming silver anniversary celebration of the National Convention of the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) from October 9-12, 2024.
“This event will be a significant milestone for our cultural and tourism sectors, marking the beginning of a strengthened network among arts advocates nationwide,” he announced.
The summit, attended both in person and online, served as a platform for arts and culture leaders to discuss the sector’s priority needs and to advocate for greater support from governing institutions. The gathering aimed to highlight the critical role of arts and culture in shaping national identity and contributing to sustainable development.
The CCP Summit of Arts and Culture Advocates concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among attendees, who left inspired to continue their work in promoting and preserving the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage. Governor Tamayo’s participation reinforced the importance of leadership and collaboration in this crucial endeavor.
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