PWC officially opens National Indigenous People’s Month Celebration
PWC of Davao officially opened the National Indigenous People’s Month Celebration on October 10, 2018 at the RSM Events Center. This is a prelude to a series of events to be conducted weekly under the initiative of the Artisanal Heritage Studies and Creative Enterprise Center (AHSCEC), the activities-oriented umbrella of the MFAMSC geared to promote culture and arts in Davao City. With the theme “Celebrating Heritage of our Creative Community”, the celebration aims to nurture sustainable development orientation and raise cultural awareness particularly on the 11 tribes of Davao City.
AHSEC project leader Emi Englis presented AHSEC’s ventures including the recent recognition from CHED and the British Council. He discussed about creative economy and how PWC’s programs come in full circle with the opportunity to integrate business with culture and arts in Davao.
Guest speaker Hon. Bai Halila Sudagar, chairperson of the Committee on Cultural Communities and Muslim Affairs discussed the Indigenous People’s Rights Act of 1997 and stressed that the celebration poses the challenge of promoting culture in the era of technology. She furthermore added that being knowledgeable of culture guides one of their existing yet diminishing sociopolitical structures, in a reminder to be mindful of the concerns that are the reason behind the festivity.
Ms. Shirley Iguianon, OIC Chief of Technical Management Services Division of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples(NCIP) Region XI urged the academe to implement the provisions of the law. She also discussed the four major rights of the indigenous people: the right to ancestral domain, self-governance and empowerment, social justice and human rights, and cultural integrity which is a crucial point as it requires accuracy of traditional dance, song, attire, design, among other aspects that are prone to misuse for mere aesthetics. She also noted the corresponding responsibilities of the IPs in maintenance of ecological balance, restoration of denuded areas, and observance of laws.
Youth representatives from the 11 tribes of Davao City organized by Mr. William Banzali of the Davao City Tourism Operations Office took the stage to share about their respective culture, art, and lifestyle.
The PWC Senior High School Arts and Design Track – Performance group notably delivered meaningful performances all throughout the program.
Also part of the ceremonies was the opening of an indigenous painting exhibition entitled “Homage: Images of Our Tribes, Source of Our Pride” at the RSM Events Center. As one of the renowned schools to offer Fine Arts in Davao, the exhibit showcases works from the faculty, students, and alumni of the said program.
More events are to be expected for the month-long celebration, as the rich indigenous culture and arts in Davao remain to be the undisputed pride of the city.
RCM