Photo by: Teddy Pelaez
NCCA Unveils National Heritage Month 2026 with Cultural Parade and Heritage Exhibits | The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) officially opened National Heritage Month 2026 on May 10 at the Loyola Retreat House – Spirituality and Art Center, gathering cultural leaders, artists, government officials, and heritage advocates in a celebration honoring the country’s rich traditions, artistic legacy, and collective memory.
Anchored on the enduring importance of preserving Filipino identity through culture and the arts, the event highlighted how heritage continues to thrive through music, rituals, storytelling, creativity, and community traditions passed down across generations.
Photo by: Teddy Pelaez
The opening ceremony began with the symbolic lighting of the fire and torches at the Kaagapay Monument led by NCCA Chairman Dr. Eric B. Zerrudo. The solemn rite was followed by a vibrant cultural parade featuring Angono’s iconic Higantes and the traditional Sayaw sa Patio, reflecting the municipality’s reputation as the country’s art capital and a center of Filipino creativity.
Adding energy to the celebration were performances by the Angono Chorale Ensemble and the Angono National Symphonic Band, showcasing the continuing role of music and performance in preserving Filipino cultural identity.
Photo by: Teddy Pelaez
Among the officials and dignitaries present during the launch were Gerardo V. Calderon, Subcommission on Cultural Heritage Commissioner Ivan Anthony Henares, former NCCA Chair Victorino Mapa Manalo, NCCA Deputy Executive Director for Administration and Support Services Marichu Tellano, Rizal 1st District Board Member Jestoni Alarcon, Loyola Retreat House Vice President Fr. Rene Pio Javellana, and Postmaster General Maximo C. Sta. Maria III.
Photo by: Teddy Pelaez
A major highlight of the program was the unveiling of the PETROS Exhibit, which introduced the first-ever association of art galleries in Angono. Organizers said the initiative aims to strengthen collaboration among local artists and cultural institutions while promoting Angono’s thriving visual arts community.
Also launched during the ceremony were the National Heritage Month commemorative stamps featuring selected plazas from different parts of the Philippines. The commemorative release symbolizes the nation’s continuing commitment to preserving cultural landmarks and historical memory.
In his keynote message, Chairman Zerrudo underscored the significance of heritage beyond historical remembrance.
“May this celebration serve as a reminder that as we preserve our cultural heritage, we also safeguard the soul of our Filipino identity,” he said.
The opening of National Heritage Month 2026 reinforced the idea that Filipino culture is not confined to museums or historical archives, but remains alive through communities, artistic expression, traditions, and everyday experiences.
Observed every May, National Heritage Month serves as a nationwide platform promoting cultural preservation, historical awareness, and appreciation for the Philippines’ diverse artistic and cultural heritage.
