Longest mural in RP symbolizes youth art power

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), has launched the "longest mural on canvass" during the celebration of the 107th anniversary of Philippine independence.

The mural depicts a variety of expressions from the youth — their ideas, opinions, dreams and thoughts on current issues. It also provides "a conscienticizing, vivid panorama of the youth’s cry for freedom from poverty, pollution, corruption and violence."

"In celebration of our century-old independence, we seek to harvest youth power in recharging our people‘s collective memories so that love for one’s roots — country, culture and heritage — would be fostered and a strong resolve to continue fighting for freedom and democracy will be instilled in the youth," said Cecille Guidote Alvarez, Presidential Assistant on Culture and NCCA executive director, said.

Youth artists from 17 cities and municipalities, together with artists from KALAHI Cultural Caregiving Program based at the Tahanan ng Masa in Malacañang, joined the two-day painting activity from June 10 to 11, at the PC Barracks in Intramuros, Manila.

The event is evisioned to be a continuing event that will culminate in 2006 during the celebration of the country’s hosting of the UNESCO—International Theatre Institute Congress.

Mural themes centered on fighting corruption, poverty, pollution and violence as well as love of country, patriotism, freedom and heroism, issues concerning women, children and the environment and reflections on the UN Millennium Development goals.

Art Association of the Philippines president Fidel Sarmiento and NCCA visual arts committee vice-chair Egay Fernandez were present thoughout the two-day activity as an expression of support.