National Arts Month opened yesterday at Rizal Park in Manila. The opening took place on February 1, 2026. The event was a two‑hour concert called “Ani ng Sining: Konsiyerto ng Katotohanan at Giting.” The concert was held at the Rizal Park Open Air Auditorium. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) organized the celebration. Chairman and Executive Director Eric B. Zerrudo, Ph.D., led the NCCA team.

The program began with a grand parade at 4:00 p.m. The parade moved toward the open‑air stage. Spectators followed the marching bands and color guards. The parade set a festive tone for the evening. The concert proper started at 6:00 p.m. and ended at 8:00 p.m.

The opening ceremony featured two symbolic rituals. “Pagdating ng Ilaw” signaled the arrival of light. “Pagpasa ng Liwanag sa Kabataan” handed that light to the youth. Both rituals highlighted the transfer of cultural heritage. They also stressed the responsibility of young artists.

After the rituals, a series of monologues were performed. The monologues were titled “Ang Binhi ng Sining,” “Sining Bilang Ugat at Alaala,” “Sining at Giting ng Bayan,” and “Ang Pananagutan ng Ilaw.” Each piece reflected on art’s role in memory, identity, and civic duty. The short performances kept the audience engaged.

The cultural segment showcased a wide range of Filipino talent. The UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe presented “Pitong Alay ng Sining.” UST Coro Tomasino sang choral pieces. The Yogad Cultural Dance Group added traditional movements. The Indak Guiguintenyo Folkloric Group performed folk dances that won the 2024 Sayaw Pinoy competition. The Philippine Ballet Theatre offered a graceful ballet excerpt. Anak Bale‑Balayan displayed a vibrant mix of modern and traditional dance.

A fashion show followed the dance program. The show highlighted the country’s creative industries. It featured garments made by local designers. The segment underscored the link between fashion and culture.

The evening turned contemporary with the set “Katotohanan sa Makabagong Anyo.” The Addlib and The O Divas delivered modern music and spoken word. Their performance tied the theme of truth to today’s artistic expression.

Miss Grand International 2025 Emma Tiglao appeared on stage. She joined singers Monica Gana, Lucky G., and Elaiza Jem. Their songs drew strong applause. The crowd responded with cheers and applause.

The concert ended with “Ani ng Sining.” All performers sang together. The finale celebrated Filipino creativity. The audience rose for a standing ovation.

NCCA Chairman Eric B. Zerrudo addressed the crowd. He said, “This year’s theme, ‘Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Giting,’ affirms that art is not only a product of individual creativity but also a powerful expression of the people’s lived realities and collective vision.” He added, “Art reflects truth and valor. It serves as a wellspring of hope for a more just and progressive society.”

The National Arts Month celebration is mandated by Presidential Proclamation No. 683. The proclamation was signed in 1991. Each February, the NCCA leads the month‑long program. The NCCA works with its Subcommission on the Arts, headed by Dr. Lordinio A. Vergara. Seven national committees support the effort. They cover architecture, cinema, dance, dramatic arts, literary arts, music, and visual arts. Committee heads include Cathe Desiree S. Nadal, Sandy Chua, and Al Nezzar Ali.

The opening concert highlighted the importance of the arts in community life. It showed how art can promote livable neighborhoods. It also illustrated art’s role in responsible governance. The event suggested that collaboration among artists can build a sustainable society.

After the concert, the NCCA invited the public to join other events. Activities will take place across the country throughout February. The schedule includes workshops, exhibitions, and performances. The organization hopes more Filipinos will “Halina’t Maki‑Sining!” – come and make art.

For more information, contact the NCCA Public Affairs and Information Office. Phone: (8) 527‑2192 oc 628. Direct line: (8) 527‑5529. Email: paio@ncca.gov.ph. Visit www.ncca.gov.ph.

The opening of National Arts Month at Rizal Park marked a vibrant start to February’s cultural celebrations. It reminded the nation that art is both a mirror of reality and a beacon for the future.