South Cotabato, Philippines—February is an explosion of creativity as South Cotabato celebrated National Arts Month under the theme “Ani ng Sining, Diwa at Damdamin.” The Arts, Culture, and Tourism Museum Unit of South Cotabato organized vibrant activities, drawing local artists from General Santos City, Sarangani Province, Cotabato, and South Cotabato to showcase their impressive talents.
In an interview with the Provincial Information Office’s Information Development Division, participating artists like Gio Gotas expressed their heartfelt appreciation to Governor Reynaldo Tamayo, Jr for launching the competition.
“Though we are from General Santos, it’s an honor to be part of this exhibition,” Gotas said. He praised the platform provided for artists to demonstrate their skills and connect with the community.
“Nagpasalamat ko sa oportunidad nga giablihan ang art exhibit dinhi sa South Cotabato. Nagpasalamat usab ko sa imbitasyon ug suporta nga gihatag ni Gobernador Tamayo kag nag-awhag ko sa mga bag-ong artists nga ipadayon lang ang ilang talento sa pagpinta. Padayon lang, ipakita ang inyong abilidad,” Gota stated.
Mielbert P. Balmatero, a visual artist from Koronadal City, also thanked Governor Tamayo for creating an opportunity for local artists to meet and exchange ideas.
“This exhibit allowed us to showcase our talents and celebrate the arts with other passionate artists,” Balmatero remarked. He acknowledged their full support, emphasizing its importance in boosting local artistry.
“Damo gid nga salamat sa sini nga exhibit, kay nagtililipon ang mga visual artists kag naghatag sang oportunidad para sa on-the-spot nga pagpinta. Ang konsepto namon amo ang “Nature of the Stone.” Madamo gid nga salamat kay Gov. Tamayo sa iya nga suporta sa mga visual artists kag sa amon mga obra,” he stressed.
Ronito R. Subaldo, another prominent artist in the city, expressed his gratitude to the governor for her continued support of the visual arts community.
“Dako gid nga pasalamat namon sa probinsya, labi na subong nga tuig, kay padayon kami nga nasuportahan ni Gov. Tamayo. Salamat gid Gobernador sa imo tuman nga serbisyo para sa katawhan, labi na sa mga visual artists, sculptors, theater practitioners, kag iban pa. Mabatyagan namon ang imo suporta, kag kabay pa ang mga tawo nga yara sa likod mo magpadayon sa pagsuporta sa imo mga plano.” Subaldo’s added.
The local Arts Month celebration will conclude with a closing program at the KCC Mall of Marbel 4th Floor Convention Center. The event will honor the winners of the art exhibits and will be attended by students, provincial government employees, and guests from surrounding areas like Sarangani, General Santos, and Cotabato.
This event highlighted the strong creative spirit in South Cotabato and further cemented the province’s commitment to supporting the growth of its local arts community.
