In accordance with Proclamation No. 798, s. 1991, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in partnership with Lawig Diwa, Inc., officially launched this year’s Museums and Galleries Month at the SM Lanang Atrium on October 1, 2024. The month-long celebration, observed every October, highlights the importance of museums and galleries in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

This year’s opening in Mindanao was a symbolic tribute to the rich culture, art, and traditions of the region. The event aimed to challenge negative stereotypes associated with Mindanao, reimagining it instead as one of the most vibrant cultural hubs in Asia.

Key officials from the NCCA, the National Museum of the Philippines, and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines graced the occasion.

(Left to Right: Kublai Milan, President, Lawig Diwa, Inc.; Jorell M. Legaspi, Deputy Director General, National Museum; Commissioner Arvin Manuel D. Villalon, Subcommission on the Arts, NCCA; Commissioner Ivan Anthony S. Henares, Subcommission on Cultural Heritage, NCCA; Tess B. Rayos del Sol, Head, Committee on Art Galleries, NCCA; Jose Eleazar R. Bersales, Head, Committee on Museums, NCCA; Haidee Paulette M. Bedruz, Secretary, Committee on Museums and Ex-Officio, NHCP; Emma Munoz Rey, Head, Committee on Archives; Norma Fe Alajar, Vice Head, Committee on Libraries and Information Services)

The ceremony also drew local artists, art enthusiasts, mallgoers, and students who gathered at SM Lanang. Coinciding with the Mindanao Art Fair, the event featured a “press tour,” during which visitors explored the exhibits alongside the artists, who shared insights about their works. Guests also had the opportunity to purchase artworks showcased at the fair.

Following the tour, a collaborative art piece led by Kublai Milan invited participation from the other guests of honor. The completed artwork will be displayed at the soon-to-open National Museum of the Philippines in Davao City.

To conclude the celebration, the Madayaw Cultural Ensemble delivered a breathtaking performance, leaving the audience in awe and capping off the event on a high note.

For details on this press release, contact Mr. Rene S. Napeñas, Head, Public Affairs and Information Office, through pais@ncca.gov.ph or 0945 788 5698. Visit www.ncca.gov.ph and the Facebook page @NCCAOfficial.