The National Commission for Culture and the Arts hosted the National Arts Month Opening 2025 in front of its newly-decorated building on February 3, 2025. This February, the Philippines celebrates National Arts Month (NAM) under Presidential Proclamation 683, signed in 1991 by President Corazon C. Aquino.

With the theme, “Ani ng Sining, Diwa at Damdamin”, the NAM taps into the deeper, more intrapersonal connection of the Filipino people with the arts. The NCCA highlights the spirit, essence, soul, and core of the ways of the arts that resonate with the people’s passion. The NAM celebrates the expressions of beauty that dwell within the spirit and passion of the nation.

Aside from the NAM Opening Ceremony, the NCCA also revealed its Singkaban-inspired façade on the same morning, showcasing the intricately-made bamboo designs adorning all its seven floors.

Hosted by Jules Guiang, the program started with a lively performance by the PNU Kislap Sining, PNU Balinsasayaw Dance Troupe, and Sindaw Philippines accompanied by a musical number performed by the Quezon Tondo Drumbeaters. The Manila City Band led the singing of the National Anthem with their live instrumental of ‘Lupang Hinirang.’

The opening ceremony was attended by NCCA Executive Director Eric B. Zerrudo who delivered his welcoming message, NCCA Deputy Executive Director for Administration and Support Services Marichu G. Tellano, NCCA Deputy Executive Director for Operations Bernan Corpuz, SCA Commissioner Arvin Villalon, SCA Committee Heads and members.

NCCA Ambassador for the Arts and Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray also graced the program and gave a message for the ceremony. Gray expressed her gratitude towards the NCCA for her 6^th year as Arts Ambassador.

After the declaration, a parade going towards the Museo De Intramuros was held for the commencement of the second part of the program.

Aside from NCCA employees, students from schools and universities, Miss Manila and Miss PNU winners also attended both the opening ceremony and parade. The parade was divided into seven sections to represent the 7 Arts. Barangay security escorted the parade to ensure safety, and the Manila City Band, Quezon Tondo Drumbeaters, and performers kept the parade lively with their performances.

Intramuros Administration Administrator Atty. Joan Padilla was present to welcome the attendees to the newly-opened Museo De Intramuros. The program ended with a merienda cena and a free guided museum tour by the Museo De Intramuros staff. Attendees were also allowed to roam around and enjoy the museum in their own pace.

“Panimula pa lamang po ito sa isang buwang punung-puno—siksik-liglig at umaapaw ng mga programang makasining hindi lamang sa Maynila kung hindi pati sa iba’t ibang lugar at rehiyon sa ating bansa at pati na rin sa buong mundo,” said NCCA Executive Director Eric B. Zerrudo, Ph.D.

The NAM is set to kick-off with month-long activities for February across different areas in the NCR, other regions in the country, and in international locations as well.

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.