In a vibrant celebration of art and culture, the 4th Sining sa Hardin: Bulacan Art in the Park festival kicked off on March 7, 2025, at the Antonio Bautista Provincial Capitol Compound in Malolos, Bulacan. This event, spearheaded by the Provincial History, Arts, Culture, and Tourism Office (PHACTO), was supported by prominent organizations such as the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), Department of Tourism (DOT), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The festival brought together a diverse array of local artists, performers, and sponsors, showcasing the rich creative landscape of Bulacan.
The festival featured an impressive display of artistic talents, including painting, handicrafts, music, dance, and other dimensions of the creative industry. CCP Vice President and Artistic Director Dennis Marasigan highlighted Bulacan’s status as a hub for national artists, emphasizing its vibrant creative industry. “Bulacan remains a treasure trove of art, being the province with the most recorded national artists,” Marasigan noted, underscoring the significance of the festival in showcasing this talent.
Department of Tourism Region III Director Richard Daenos announced plans to allocate funds for establishing arts and culture hubs across Central Luzon. This initiative aims to enhance arts education, safeguard cultural heritage, protect intellectual property, and facilitate local cultural exchanges. Judith Dela Cruz from DTI-Bulacan encouraged participants to submit project proposals under the Malikhaing Pinoy Program, aligned with the Philippine Creative Industry Development Act (PCIDA), to further support local creative endeavors.
As part of the ongoing National Arts Month celebrations, Sining sa Hardin serves as a platform for Bulakenyo artists to share their work and traditions with a broader audience. The event will run until the following week, offering visitors the opportunity to view and purchase artworks and enjoy performances from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM daily.
Organizers extended heartfelt thanks to all participating art groups, performers, and sponsors for their invaluable contributions to the festival’s success. This event not only celebrates local talent but also underscores the importance of community engagement and cultural preservation in Bulacan.
Sining sa Hardin is more than just a festival; it is a testament to Bulacan’s thriving creative community and its role in fostering national pride and artistic excellence. As the Philippines continues to celebrate National Arts Month, events like these remind us of the power of art to unite and inspire communities across the country.
By Jeoff “Jopay” Tuano-Solas / Contributor