In celebration of Heritage Month this May, the office of Rep. Francisco “Kiko” Benitez brings not only to the Third District but to Negros Occidental a series of activities to highlight local heritage as a vital community asset.
“Heritage is what we inherit from those who came before us, it is the legacy of our community that binds us, roots us, and gives us a sense of who we are, where we came from, and what makes us unique”, Benitez said.
“Preservation requires us to remember and celebrate our heritage, ensure that we treasure it, and ensure that the future generations enjoy the wealth of our community’s heritage and pass on who we are,” he added.
Partnering with the Filipino Heritage Festival Inc., the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the local government units of Victorias, E.B. Magalona, Silay, Talisay and Murcia, a 30-minute Metro 3rd Local Heritage audio-visual presentation was produced, tracing the historical and religious stories and sites, practices and celebrations, as well as natural, endemic and indigenous attractions, for exposure nation-wide.
The public is invited to the free showing of two films based on Negros stories, at the SM City Bacolod Cinema. Magikland will be shown at 2:30 p.m. on May 25 and Sonata at 2:30 p.m. on May 27.
Magikland directed by Christian Acuña was produced by Peque Gallaga, Lore Reyes and Albee Benitez. Sonata filmed in Negros was directed by Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes.
The cities of Talisay and Victorias will host the free presentation “Take the Next Step” of Philippine Ballet Theater at the Victorias City Public Plaza 7 p.m. on May 26, and at the Talisay City Public Plaza 7 p.m. on May 27.
The Philippine Ballet Theater features classical ballet and is the resident ballet company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
Armita Bantug Rufino, president of Filipino Heritage Festival, Inc. said the National Heritage Month celebration every month of May, provides “opportunities to take pride, know, experience and value the heritage we call our very own”.
This year’s theme is “Pamanang Lokal: Binhi ng Kulturang Pilipino”.*