IBA, Zambales — Students from 13 state colleges and universities in Central Luzon are presently competing in the 2nd Regional Festival of Culture and Arts here.
Participants in the competition being held by the Association of State Universities and Colleges (CAASUC) in Region 3 are vying to become this year’s grand champion and represent Central Luzon in the National Festival of Culture and Arts next year.
Dr. Cornelio C. Garcia, president of the President Ramon Magsaysay State University (PRMSU) and concurrent chairman of the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) III and CAASUC III, said the competition which kicked off Monday will showcase the rich culture and colorful arts in each province of Central Luzon.
“The three-day competition will be full of singing, dancing, painting, essay writing, and more colorful and artistic activities which the younger generation will surely appreciate,” he said.
Garcia noted that CAASUC wants to develop artists in the fields of writing, music and visual arts.
Meanwhile, Governor Amor Deloso said there is a study which gives recognition to the key role of creativity in economic competitiveness.
“Countries are exploring the extent to which they need to develop a clear rational for education on a creativity, cultural education and the arts which are universally considered indispensable component of a well-rounded education,” he said.
Former Zambales Governor Vicente Magsaysay said the Philippines is known for its rich and wonderful culture and tradition and preserving these invites opportunities for development and nation building.
“Over the years, the construction and the structure of a national identity using the power of the state and the proactive cooperation of the youth has been a trend to many countries,” Magsaysay said.
He shared that the culture of unity pushed the Israelis to produce their own food and later enabled them to feed the Europeans; the culture of hard work made the Japanese economy a powerhouse in Asia; and the culture of entrepreneurship established China as the world’s leading economy.
“As for the Philippines, the culture of positive thinking. However, Filipinos only need to put it into action to further achieve progress like other countries,” Magsaysay added.
The 2nd Regional Festival of Culture and Arts is being held at the sports complex of the PRMSU here. (/PNA)
