The Department of Tourism (DOT), through its DOT – Metro Manila (NCR) Office, in collaboration with the San Juan City government, launched the San Juan Art Exhibit and Art Trail that will promote and showcase the city’s vibrant art scene and cultural heritage.
Gracing the ribbon-cutting ceremonies are First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and husband House Deputy Speaker Duke Frasco, Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda, Jr., NHCP Chairman Dr. Emmanuel Calairo, and city officials led by San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and wife Mrs. Keri Zamora, and San Juan City Representative Cong. Ysabel Maria Zamora.
Delivering her message at the exhibit opening, which was done in conjunction with the Commemoration of the 127th Araw ng Pinaglabanan at the city’s historic Pinaglabanan Shrine, Frasco underscored the arts as an important priority of the Marcos administration.
“The creative arts contribute greatly to the Filipino identity, and by cultivating our local artists, giving them opportunities to be well-known here and over the world, we enrich the Filipino identity.”
“On behalf of the Department of Tourism, we convey our warm congratulations to the local government unit of San Juan for further enriching the culture of tourism in the Philippines through the culture of courage, and the culture of the creative arts. Our President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has said that the creative arts contribute greatly to the Filipino identity, and by cultivating our local artists, giving them opportunities to be well-known here and over the world, we enrich the Filipino identity,” the tourism chief said, as she congratulated the City Government of San Juan for the successful Araw ng Pinaglabanan commemoration rites despite the inclement weather.
“We congratulate the LGU of San Juan for also revitalizing the Pinaglabanan Shrine for in commemorating the acts of bravery and courage of our heroes, we remember the indomitable spirit of the Filipino that drives all of us to continue to strive for the progress of our nation,” the tourism head added.
The launching of the San Juan Art Exhibit and Art Trail, brings together artists from all over the country, and participating art galleries to foster collaboration and networking within the local art community.
“Kami po’y nagpapasalamat sa Department of Tourism sapagkat napakamagagandang art pieces pong nakikita natin ay sa tulong po ng ating Department of Tourism.”
Mayor Zamora thanked the DOT for the partnership effort, saying “Kami po’y nagpapasalamat sa Department of Tourism sapagkat napakamagagandang art pieces pong nakikita natin ay sa tulong po ng ating Department of Tourism.”
Concluding his message, the mayor expressed gratitude to the First Lady, Frasco, and distinguished guests for supporting San Juan City “to be more known not just in the Philippines but in the whole world.”
To assist local artists who will opt to sell their works during the exhibit, the DOT and City Government of San Juan have dedicated personnel to assist in the facilitation of sale between the artist and the buyer.
The exhibit will remain open to the public until September 5, 2023.
