by Lito Dar

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is looking into the possibility of the NCCA helping in addressing the cultural dimension of the country’s social problem in support to the good governance vision of President Benigno Aquino III.

According to NCCA executive director Maria Lourdes "Malou" Jacob, PNoy’s administration has been very supportive to the cause of NCCA. It does not dictate and really upholds artistic freedom which could be a big help in really promoting the cultural industry for our Filipino artists,” she said.

Jacob explained that what they are trying to do now is to convince the government that art could also play a big part in pushing the country forward. “If during the time of Jose Rizal the artists are important on the birthing of a nation, now artists are important on the development and upliftment of our country,” Jacod said.
Filipino artists, Jacob continued, should realize their significance, not only for their self but also for the community and to the country as a whole. According to Jacob, artists have different ways wherein they can express themselves -- some of them want to be left alone which we should also respect, but there are also those who want to be part of the community, this is where the NCCA can help by providing the opportunity and avenue to do so.

“It is always a true artist’s role to provide the people new insights and provoke people into action and change of attitude. Artists should look for a new and different way to encourage people to really participate in promoting a really proud Filipino identity,” Jacob said.

Jacob was the guest of honor during the 2nd Tam-awan International Arts Festival, which was successfully held from May 13 to 15, through the partnership of Chanum Foundation Inc., Tam-awan Village, and the NCCA. *(JDP/LD-PIA CAR)