Activity 2.

The Past Master and Living Treasures

Philippine society is rich in both culture and art. Every Filipino ethnic tribe had its

forms of art long before the arrival of the Spaniards, and they have continued to practice them

today. To honor Filipino masters of the past in terms of culture and arts, the National

Commission for Culture and the Arts provided the Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan award. The

Past Master showcases the lives and contributions of Maguindanao kudyapi expert Samaon

Sulaiman, epic chanter Masino Intaray, Hanunuo Mangyan poet and master of syllabary

Ginaw Bilog, T'boli master weaver Lang Dulay, Tagabawa Bagobo weaver Salinta Monon,

Tawi-Tawi. Although they have already passed, their works have left a lasting imprint on the

arts and culture. Documenting and transmitting all of their accomplishments will ensure that

future generations will be able to benefit from them.

I was captivated by the documentary because it captured the beauty of our country.

Arts and crafts, as well as the people, have contributed. Additionally, it featured a few

National Living Treasures. They are called Living Treasures for a reason. They teach and

share their knowledge with the younger generations, for example. Keeping the heritage alive

and passing on the skills will ensure they won't be forgotten. Our country should prioritize

these types of arts and expertise to preserve our country's identity. As long as there are

individuals who want to keep the arts of the past alive and pass them on, they will always be

preserved.

Despite this, Filipino culture and arts do not cease with these historical masterpieces;

they continue to flourish to this day. The Dayaw presentation aims to showcase Philippine

culture and art. As stated by the NCCA, all saved history should be expanded and reinvented

for the benefit of future generations. After watching the video, I concluded that it shows not

only the lives but also the hardships of many Filipinos.