The Local Government Unit of Palo, Leyte showcased the richness of Filipino creativity as it presented Pagsalin-urog: The 2026 National Arts Month in Palo for the Visayas on February 18, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Palo Pag-ibig Plaza.
The celebration, held in observance of National Arts Month 2026, highlighted the diversity of Filipino artistic expression, with special emphasis on music, visual arts, literature, and dance. The event gathered artists, cultural advocates, local leaders, and community members in a shared commitment to preserve, promote, and celebrate the country’s cultural heritage.
Organized in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Province of Leyte, the ASEAN Foundation, Leyte Normal University, and the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc., the gathering served as the Visayas’ official contribution to the nationwide celebration of the arts.
The program was structured into four thematic segments — Paglingi (Looking Back), Pagpukaw (Awakening), Pagtindog (Standing Up), and Pagpadayon (Moving Forward) — each reflecting the region’s cultural journey and resilience. Performances of iconic Waray songs, folk dances, festival presentations, and live visual art captured the enduring spirit of Leyte while also highlighting calls for climate justice and cultural preservation.
Among those present were Carlos Jericho Petilla, Governor of the Province of Leyte, and Remedios Petilla, Mayor of Palo, who emphasized the importance of culture in strengthening regional identity and fostering community resilience.
Representing the NCCA was Dr. Ma. Alexandra Chua, Head of the NCCA National Music Committee, who delivered the message of Lordinio Vergara, highlighting the role of the arts in shaping national memory and inspiring collective action.
As the Visayas’ contribution to National Arts Month 2026, Pagsalin-urog reaffirmed that culture remains a vital force in preserving heritage, strengthening identity, and inspiring communities toward a more sustainable future. END #leyteinitiatives #evchub8 #evcommunities8
