Manila, Philippines – The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) held its Thanksgiving and Certificate of Recognition Ceremony for the first semester on Friday, July 24, at the Centro de Turismo Intramuros, acknowledging the invaluable support of institutions, local government units, cultural partners, and media organizations in advancing Filipino culture and heritage.

Leading the awarding rites were NCCA Public Affairs Head Rene Napenas, NCCA Chairperson and Executive Director Dr. Eric Zerrudo, and National Museum Director Jeremy Barns.

Recognized for their outstanding partnership in implementing key national cultural observances—including National Arts Month, National Literature Month, Filipino Food Month, and National Heritage Month—were several local government units including:

– City Government of Calapan, represented by Jingky Lagam

– Municipal Government of Paombong, Bulacan, represented by Mercy Grace Ventura

– Municipal Government of Pulilan, Bulacan, represented by Josef Navarro

– Municipal Government of Porac, Pampanga, represented by Herminigildo Pineda

And on Purple Wednesdate

– Province of Bulacan represented by  Limuel Jan J. Lobederio, Bulacan Department Head of the Provincial History, Arts, Culture, and Tourism Office (PHACTO)

The NCCA also paid special tribute to cultural heritage advocate Marco Philippe Araneta, commending his dedicated participation in official agency programs, particularly the Malacañang Heritage Tours.

Among the institutional partners cited was the National Museum of the Philippines, represented during the ceremony by Arvin Villalon, who received the recognition on behalf of Director Barns.

Media partners were likewise honored for their vital role in spreading awareness of cultural initiatives. Receiving their certificates were Michael Balaguer of www.diaryongtagalog.net and Mary Jane O. Balaguer of www.dzmjonline.net.

The event was highlighted by special performances from renowned artists Lara Maigue Magdangal and Gian Carlo Magdangal, who delighted guests with individual numbers before closing the program with a joint performance.