MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Four representatives of the Cultural Center of the Philippines “Kaisa sa Sining” (KSS) Regional Arts Centers, namely Renefe M. Tremedal (Pagadian), Cecile B. Mambuay (Marawi/Cagayan de Oro), Lolilto M. Pontillas (Agusan del Sur), and Marichelle S. Bernardo (Malolos,Bulacan), will participate in the first China-ASEAN Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Week in Nanning, China from April 22 to 26, 2023 with CCP Cultural Exchange Department manager Carmencita Bernardo as the head of delegation.
The ICH Week aims to strengthen exchanges and cooperation between China and ASEAN in the protection, inheritance and utilization of intangible cultural heritage, publicity and promotion, development of cultural tourism resources and brand building. It is co-sponsored by the China Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection Center, the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, and the Nanning Municipal People’s Government.
The Philippine delegation will showcase samples of Philippine intangible cultural heritage through exhibition, demonstration, and performances. They will also participate in forum discussions with China-ASEAN delegates on the initiatives and strategies implemented by each country to protect and propagate its intangible culture.
The CCP KSS representatives are actively involved in major programs on intangible cultural heritage in their respective regions.
Pontillas is the associate dean of the College of Teacher Education, and director of the Culture & Arts Office of the St. Francis Xavier College, Agusan del Sur. He is also the coordinator for the cultural programs on Manobo Cultural Community of Agusan.
Bernardo is an administrative officer of the Malolos City Culture, Arts, Tourism Office. She is also an artist, demonstrator, and facilitator of PUNI de Malolos, Leaf Art, and a member of the Advocates for Heritage Preservation.
Facilitated by the CCP Cultural Exchange Department (CED), the Philippine participation in the 1st China-ASEAN Intangible Cultural Heritage Week is another opportunity to further strengthen cultural ties and promote understanding and brotherhood among Filipinos, Chinese, ASEAN and other nationals.
