(Photo courtesy of the Cultural Center of the Philippines)

Do you remember when Cinemalaya was screened at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) or when you enjoyed watching your favorite musical performances?

While we often recognize the CCP for its architectural grandeur. Beyond its impressive facade, it has woven itself into the very fabric of our culture, transforming into a lively hub that doesn't just showcase the arts – it breathes life into them

The CCP has served as a cherished home for numerous talented artists. However, due to its ongoing rehabilitation, initiated in 2023, performances within its Main Building have been temporarily interrupted. 

The CCP boldly moves into 2024 with an impressive slate of cultural programs despite the current renovations to its Main Building. 

The principles of katotohanan (truth), kagandahan (beauty), and kabutihan (goodness) are embodied in these programs, which also promotes public art education and appreciation.

According to CCP President ad interim Michelle Nikki Junia, the initiative is focused on bringing the Cultural Center to a broader audience, particularly reaching out to those who may face challenges traveling to Manila.  

This benefits those who may find it challenging to come to Manila and attend shows at the CCP building and democratizes access to these cultural experiences.

“One of the many objectives of CCP is to educate the public about the importance of Philippine arts and culture and being given the chance, the funding, the support from the legislators to bring, for example the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra to their own cities outside of the capital, it benefits the people who cannot afford to come to Manila and go to the building, and watch the shows here,” she emphasized.

“It is our duty in CCP to really educate and expand our borders. We’re not confining the CCP complex, but rather, this is an opportunity for us to increase our reach [despite] being closed right now, and once we open, we are very confident that we will be able to expand even more,” she added.

This year, the CCP is increasing its outreach efforts by actively building new collaborations with local government units (LGUs) and cultural organizations. CCP is devoted to delivering concerts in various alternative performing spaces and locations around the country, working closely with a wide range of artists.

According to CCP President ad interim Michelle Nikki Junia, the initiative is focused on bringing the Cultural Center to a broader audience, particularly reaching out to those who may face challenges traveling to Manila.  

This benefits those who may find it challenging to come to Manila and attend shows at the CCP building and democratizes access to these cultural experiences.

“One of the many objectives of CCP is to educate the public about the importance of Philippine arts and culture and being given the chance, the funding, the support from the legislators to bring, for example the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra to their own cities outside of the capital, it benefits the people who cannot afford to come to Manila and go to the building, and watch the shows here,” she emphasized.

“It is our duty in CCP to really educate and expand our borders. We’re not confining the CCP complex, but rather, this is an opportunity for us to increase our reach [despite] being closed right now, and once we open, we are very confident that we will be able to expand even more,” she added.

This year, the CCP is increasing its outreach efforts by actively building new collaborations with local government units (LGUs) and cultural organizations. CCP is devoted to delivering concerts in various alternative performing spaces and locations around the country, working closely with a wide range of artists.

The future is outside its Main Building

CCP aims to produce 765 events, encompassing performances, screenings, exhibits, and workshops onsite, off-site, and online in 2024.

“We aspire to reach over 200,000 onsite viewers and engage more than 6,000 artists. For our workshops, we hope they can benefit 16,000 participants,” shared CCP artistic director Dennis Marasigan.

Favorite festivals like CCP Pasinaya, Virgin Labfest, and Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival will continue to provide unique creative and cultural experiences. Still, now they will be available in more regions. 

Festivals

The CCP Children's Biennale is back after a two-year break, and this time, it aims to introduce children to the diversity of Philippine arts, indigenous cultures, and the environment through vibrant and educational programs. The children's festival seeks to foster curiosity free of charge through interactive art installations, instructional play and film screenings, creative workshops, children's book fairs, and other events.

Perfomances

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, Philippine Ballet Theatre, Bayanihan The National Dance Company, Philippine Madrigal Singers, TheBallet Philippines, and Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group are just a few of the resident companies that will enthrall the public throughout the year.

Film Showing

Well-known film shows, such as CCP's The Met Live in HD, National Theatre Live, Cine Icons, Cinema Under the Stars, and Lakbay Sine, will offer authentic storytelling and distinctive cinematic experiences. The second edition of the CCP Out-of-the-Box Series is currently in progress, and Triple Threats is back with Leading Ladies' performances.

For the future generation

CCP goes beyond exhibits and performances alone. It enthusiastically supports arts education programs that support the development of the next generation of artists using a holistic approach. These programs seek to ensure a thriving and long-lasting creative community by training future artists, giving them exposure, and participating in audience development efforts.

To commemorate Francisco Balagtas’centenary, the CCP BOT-initiated program Kanto Kultura takes off again with Baraptasan, a contemporary twist on the Balagtasan. 

Literary battles in Filipino, Cebuano, Hiligaynon, and Ilokano will be featured at The Baraptasan. Kanto Kultura seeks to introduce the arts, in any form, to various kanto around the country.

CCP’s Main Building is a cultural treasure by National Artist for Architecture Leandro V. Locsin. 

Established in 1966, it stands as a dedicated bastion for promoting and preserving the finest facets of Filipino arts and culture. Beyond its architectural presence, the CCP serves as a living testament to the values of katotohanan (truth), kagandahan (beauty), and kabutihan (goodness). 

With over 50 years of unwavering commitment, the CCP has consistently been at the forefront of championing culture and the arts. Through collaborative efforts with the government, business, academe, and the international community, it actively contributes to cultivating a robust local creative industry. This holistic approach not only upholds traditions but also catalyzes innovation, fosters social awareness, and enhances the Philippines' distinct identity and economic vitality.

As of January 2024, the rehabilitation progress is approximately 30 percent completion. It is anticipated to be completed by 2025, and the Main Building and its theaters are set to open their doors by 2026.

To know more about the CCP, here’s their website: https://culturalcenter.gov.ph  (GLDG/PIA-NCR)