House bill pushes ‘rondalla’ training program for music teachers
Citing music as a crucial part of the Philippine cultural heritage, Pangasinan Rep. Christopher de Venecia wants the Department of Education (DepEd) to set up a “rondalla” training program for music teachers.
His House Bill No. 11290, or the proposed Philippine Rondalla Program Act, which aims to institutionalize the rondalla training program for teachers, was referred during Monday’s plenary session to the House committee on basic education and culture.
A counterpart measure, Senate Bill No.1338, was filed by Sen. Loren Legarda in September 2022.
Rondalla is a group of stringed instruments made from indigenous Philippine wood, including the bandurria, guitar, octavina, laud (lute), guitar and double bass, which are played using a tortoise-shell plectrum or pick.
“Rondalla, introduced in the Philippines in the 15th century, has long been an important facet of our community life. Our culture and traditions are the ties that bind our identity as Filipinos,” said De Venecia, who authored the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act.
Necessary support
“Giving the necessary support for activities and programs for rondalla will ensure that young aspiring musicians will be provided with opportunities for development, and educators will advance with the appropriate training,” he added.
In June 28 last year, the DepEd Central Visayas’ Let’s Play Schools set the Guinness World Record for the largest rondalla ensemble with 554 performers from different public elementary and high schools across the region.
