MANILA — As the Philippines holds the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) are elevating Dayaw 2026 from a national observance to a regional platform — ensuring indigenous peoples’ voices, rights, and rich cultural heritage are not only seen across the country but heard, respected, and valued throughout Southeast Asia.
The dual celebration was formally launched during a press conference held October 1, 2026 at the NCCA Lobby, unveiling back-to-back October observances: Dayaw 2026 — National Indigenous Peoples Month and Museums and Galleries Month (MGM) 2026.
Hosted by Jules Guiang, the program opened with remarks from Bernan Joseph Corpuz, NCCA Deputy Executive Director for Operations, and Maria Teresa Rayos Del Sol, Head of the National Committee on Arts and Galleries. Acclaimed Katutubong Diva Bayang Barrios delivered a stirring performance that honored indigenous artistry and identity.
DAYAW 2026: Creativity, Resilience, and Regional Solidarity
Running October 13–15, 2026 at the Foro de Intramuros, Manila, Dayaw 2026 gathers over 200 cultural bearers, artists, scholars, youth, and community representatives from 41 clusters nationwide.
This year’s theme — “Creativity of Indigenous Filipinos: Strengthened by Challenges, Igniting New Hope” — reflects how indigenous communities persist and flourish through traditions, knowledge, and creativity amid social, economic, political, and environmental trials.
Building on the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship, the NCCA–NCIP partnership positions Dayaw as more than a local festival — it becomes a regional showcase where indigenous culture, rights, and aspirations take center stage for the entire ASEAN community.
“Through our ASEAN Chairmanship, we open doors for indigenous voices to resonate beyond our shores — across borders, across Southeast Asia,” organizers affirmed. “Dayaw stands as a testament: our heritage is not just our past, but our shared future.”
Highlights of Dayaw 2026:
– Gawad sa Gabay ng Katutubo — honoring exemplary indigenous leaders
– Indigenous Peoples Forums on education, health, and environment
– Traditional dance, weaving, and craft demonstrations
– Authentic indigenous food showcase
– Cultural performances and oral tradition presentations, including epics
– Ethnomedicine and indigenous knowledge sharing
– Exhibition and direct sale of authentic IP-made products — handwoven textiles, crafts, pottery, and artworks
Visit, Experience, and Support: Every purchase directly empowers indigenous artisans, sustains time-honored skills, and strengthens community livelihoods. Come, take home a piece of living heritage — and turn your appreciation into meaningful support.
Dayaw 2026 partner Sonia Soto, Program Director and Trustee of the Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan Inc. (FLKI), emphasized: “When we lift up our indigenous communities, we lift up the soul of our nation — and as ASEAN Chair, we invite the region to do the same.”
Museums and Galleries Month 2026: “Bridging Divides — Preserving the Present for Tomorrow”
Also launched this October is Museums and Galleries Month, themed “Bridging Divides: Preserving the Present for Tomorrow” — a call to reimagine museums not merely as keepers of history, but as living spaces that connect generations, communities, and cultures.
The official design features the golden sun of the Philippine flag alongside woven patterns, pottery, and portraits — a reminder that the present we nurture today becomes the heritage we protect for tomorrow.
Leading partners include Jeremy Madroñal, Supervising Legislative Staff Officer at The House Legislative Museum, and Elinia Imelda Rozelle Sangalang, Provincial Tourism Officer of the Province of Cavite.
“Save the date. Visit a museum. Support our indigenous creators. Bridge a divide.”
