National Arts Month

What is National Arts Month?
National Arts Month (NAM) is an annual celebration in the Philippines dedicated to showcasing artistic excellence, diversity, and the rich cultural heritage of the Filipino people. Instituted through Presidential Proclamation No. 683 by President Corazon Aquino in 1991, it aims to honor Filipino creativity and promote the arts as a vital part of nation-building.

Quick Facts

When is it?: February
Tagged as: Ani ng Sining (Harvest of the Arts)
What’s the hashtag?: #AniNgSiningDiwaAtDamdamin
When was it founded?: January 28, 1991
Who founded it?: President Corazon Aquino

History of National Arts Month

National Arts Month traces its roots to 1991 when President Corazon Aquino signed Proclamation No. 683. The declaration aligns with Article XIV, Section 15 of the Philippine Constitution, which emphasizes state support for arts and culture. Over the years, NAM has grown into a month-long celebration led by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), featuring diverse activities such as workshops, exhibitions, performances, and conferences.

Timeline

1991: Presidential Proclamation No. 683 declares February as National Arts Month.
1992: Republic Act 7356 formally establishes NCCA as the lead agency for NAM.
2009: Cinema Rehiyon begins to promote regional filmmakers’ works.
2023: Theme “Ani ng Sining, Bunga ng Galing” highlights artistic excellence post-pandemic.

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	February 1	Saturday
2026	February 1	Sunday
2027	February 1	Monday
2028	February 1	Tuesday
2029	February 1	Thursday
2030	February 1	Friday

Observed

National Arts Month is observed throughout the Philippines with activities organized by government agencies, local communities, schools, museums, and galleries. It includes art installations, live performances, film screenings, workshops, and forums that celebrate Filipino creativity across various disciplines.

Fun Facts About National Arts Month

NAM integrates arts into daily life by engaging diverse communities like LGBTQIA+, PWDs, youth, and seniors.
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are increasingly used to share Filipino art globally.
Themes often reflect contemporary issues; for example, healing through art post-pandemic was emphasized in recent years.

Quiz

Question: Who signed Presidential Proclamation No. 683 declaring February as National Arts Month?
(Answer: President Corazon Aquino)

Question: What year was NAM officially founded?
(Answer: January 28, 1991)

Question: What is the official hashtag for NAM in 2025?
(Answer: #AniNgSiningDiwaAtDamdamin)

FAQs

Q: What is the purpose of National Arts Month?
A: NAM aims to celebrate Filipino creativity and integrate arts into nation-building while promoting cultural appreciation and artistic excellence.

Q: Who organizes National Arts Month activities?
A: The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) oversees NAM activities in collaboration with local government units and cultural institutions.

Importance of National Arts Month

National Arts Month plays a crucial role in fostering national pride by celebrating Filipino creativity and cultural identity. It supports artists’ livelihoods while emphasizing arts’ contributions to education, community development, and economic growth.