MALOLOS CITY – The Department of Tourism (DOT) has formally granted the Hiyas ng Bulacan Cultural Center with the cultural hub status.
DOT Regional Director Richard Daenos led the unveiling of the commemorative marker, which recognized the long history of the center in showcasing Bulacan’s rich heritage in arts and culture.
Built in 1971 through the help of then First Lady Imelda Marcos, it was dedicated to the creative works and contributions of Bulacan artists to the heart and soul of the nation.
The 54-year-old structure houses the Hiyas ng Bulacan Museum, Guillermo Tolentino Exhibit Hall, Nicanor Abelardo Auditorium, Panlalawigang Aklatan ng Bulacan, and the Provincial History, Arts, Culture and Tourism Office (PHACTO).
DOT selected the Hiyas ng Bulacan Cultural Center to be a cultural hub in recognition of its continuous vital role in preserving, promoting and celebrating the identity, knowledge, arts and heritage of the province and its people.
PHACTO Officer-in-Charge May Arlene Torres disclosed that as a cultural hub, DOT has allocated P1 million worth of various activities, projects and programs in relation to cultural, heritage and tourism promotions.
All those are set to be held in the Hiyas ng Bulacan Cultural Center.
Meanwhile, the Bulacan Culture and the Arts Council (BCAC) unanimously approved a resolution that gives special citation to DOT in making this initiative that will boost tourism development and open livelihood and job opportunities.
BCAC formally handed the resolution to Daenos, who said that Bulacan is not just a cradle of the First Philippine Republic but a reflection of a heroic race whose culture and heritage are rooted in deep nationalism. (CLJD/SFV,PIA Region 3-Bulacan)