President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to preserving indigenous culture and traditions amid rapid technological advances.

President Marcos directed the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) to intensify implementing programs promoting and developing Philippine culture and the arts, as Republic Act No. 7356 mandated.

The President issued the directive after conferring Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) to nine traditional artists who have excelled in oral tradition, embroidery, weaving, dance, and brass casting.

“Sa ating mga Manlilikha ng Bayan, maraming salamat po sa pagtuturo ng kahalagahan ng ating katutubong kultura. Sa gitna ng makabagong mundo, kayo ang tinig ng ating pinagmulan,” President Marcos added.

Highlighting the importance of cultural preservation, President Marcos said, “May today’s ceremony serve as a powerful reminder of our collective duty to protect, preserve, and to pass on the cultural treasures entrusted to us.”

“Be assured that this Administration, through the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, will continue to champion traditional arts, indigenous knowledge, and cultural sustainability,” the President stressed.

The NCCA administers the National Endowment Fund for Culture and Arts, which is meant exclusively for implementing art and cultural programs, projects, and activities nationwide. | PND