TACLOBAN CITY – The Tacloban Culture and Arts Council marked National Arts Month with Himurasak, a five-day celebration showcasing the city’s rich artistic heritage and local talents.
The event opened on Monday, February 24, 2025, at Robinsons North, featuring an art exhibit highlighting works from Tacloban’s local artists.
Guest speaker Stephen Lagarde emphasized the importance of supporting local creatives, noting that promoting cultural arts helps preserve history and identity.
He also underscored the meaning behind Himurasak—a Waray term for “abundance”—as a fitting representation of Tacloban’s wealth of artistic talent across various fields.
Kat Dela Cruz of Kolor Banwa described the exhibit as an “orchard of passion and hard work,” stressing the importance of honoring one’s cultural roots. Meanwhile, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Leyte Provincial Director Araceli Larraga reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting creative industries.
City Councilor Aimee Grafil, chair of the Sangguniang Panlungsod arts and culture committee, called for sustained efforts to nurture and expand Tacloban’s vibrant art scene.
Also present at the ceremony were Joycie Dorado-Alegre, president of the Leyte Samar Heritage Society, Inc., and Jennifer Puno, Robinsons Malls Eastern Visayas Regional Operations Manager.
The weeklong celebration featured a musical heritage talk, a visual arts workshop, and a book launch before concluding on Friday, February 28.
(TACLOBAN CITY INFORMATION OFFICE)
