For the first time, Puerto Princesa City is officially celebrating National Arts Month, providing local artists, singers, and writers a platform to showcase their talents through various competitions and activities.
Senior Tourism Operations Officer Santa Niña Arquisola of the City Tourism Office said the celebration will run from February 23 to 28, with events highlighting the city’s vibrant arts scene. Among the major competitions are a choral contest, a literary writing competition, and a mural painting challenge, all designed to encourage artistic expression and cultural appreciation.
“Sa ating Ordinance No. 1178, tayo ay nilocalize natin ito as Culture and Arts Month. Pero in connection pa rin siya sa Presidential Proclamation 683 na every February ang ating celebration.,” said Arquisola during the Amos Ta Ren sa Puerto Princesa online show last Friday, January 28.
The choral competition will feature groups from different communities and schools, while the literary writing contest invites Palawan-based writers to submit essays and short stories centered on the theme: “Ani ng Sining, Diwa at Damdamin ng Puerto Princesa.”
“Meron tayong choral competition, literary writing contest, and of course, February 24 meron tayong mural painting contest. Pagdating naman natin ng February 26 to 28, meron naman tayong iba-ibang mga symposiums na gaganapin sa different universities natin dito sa city,” she added.
Meanwhile, the mural painting competition will provide artists a chance to create large-scale artworks in designated public spaces, contributing to the city’s visual landscape.
Arquisola said that the event aims to foster appreciation for local creativity and encourage emerging talents to pursue careers in the arts.
She explained that it is going to be more than just a competition—it is an opportunity to showcase the rich cultural identity of Puerto Princesa.
Registration for all three competitions is now open, with limited slots for the choral and mural painting contests. Winners will receive cash prizes, and their works will be featured in upcoming city tourism promotions.
“Para po sa mga gustong sumali, pwede po kayong mag-submit ng inyong mga documents dito sa aming tanggapan sa City Hall. At pwede rin po ninyong isend sa email ang inyong mga application sa ating official email ng City Tourism Office,” she said.
Interested participants can submit their applications through the City Tourism Office at Puerto Princesa City Hall or via email at [email protected].
