External Affairs Division PPAO
CITY OF MALOLOS– “Investing in local culture such as music, dance, theatre, literature, including traditional knowledge and skills, can develop creative economies, open up opportunities, and help strengthen identity and community. Ito po ay isang prayoridad sa hamon ng ating panahon.”
This was the message of Governor Daniel R. Fernando during the Grand Opening of this year’s Singkaban Festival with the theme “Pagyakap sa Kasaysayan, Pagsulong sa Kinabukasan” held in front of the Capitol building in this city yesterday.
The governor vowed to increasingly invest in promoting cultural heritage and solidarity among the youth.
“Patuloy tayong magsisikap na palawigin ang mas masigla, maningning, at makabuluhang Singkaban. Ipagbubunyi natin ngayon, at sa lahat ng panahon ang pamana ng isang Bulakenyo. Ang ating sining, kasaysayan, kalinangan, at turismo,” he added.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the Philippine Creative Economy reaches P1.72 trillion in 2023, contributing 7.1 percent to the Gross Domestic Product of the country.
Meanwhile, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin C. Abalos, Jr., who was represented by her daughter Mandaluyong City Councilor Charisse Marie Abalos-Vargas, said that DILG has confidence in the leadership of Fernando in promoting the local arts and culture of the province.
“Ang inyong pong selebrasyon ay sumasalamin sa tinatahak ninyong landas na tungo sa pag-unlad na hindi isinasantabi ang kasaysayan o tradisyon,” Abalos said.
Furthermore, the participants of the Marching Band Competition and Parada ng Karosa brought an extra dose of color and excitement to the festivities as they showcased their outstanding performances and artistry on the streets of the Provincial Government Compound. The winners of these competitions will be revealed on September 14, during the Indakan sa Kalye 2024.
Also, the talented and esteemed Bulakenya, Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, dazzled the Bulakenyos with her captivating rendition of the Bulacan Tourism Jingle, “Dangal ng Lahi.” Her performance was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing her immense talent and passion for her hometown.
The opening of Singkaban Festival marks the start of the weeklong celebration of the province’s rich history, arts, culture, and tourism until September 15.
