First lady leads Intramuros cultural expo to mark Independence Day
Patrons of Filipino arts, culture and heritage—and those who support homegrown talent—are in for a special treat as the country marks the 127th anniversary of its declaration of independence.
First lady Liza Araneta Marcos will spearhead an exhibit, dubbed “Likha 4,” that will showcase the Philippines’ best handmade crafts and textiles as part of this year’s Independence Day celebration.
Short for “Likhaing Filipino,” it will open on June 6 and will run until June 8 at the Foro de Intramuros along Anda Street in Intramuros as a celebration of Filipino culture, heritage and craftsmanship.
In a statement, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Likha 4 will be a platform for the country’s most skilled artisans, local designers and heritage designers and their best works in crafts and textiles.
“Likha is more than just a showcase; it’s a movement to empower local artisans and preserve Filipino heritage. This initiative hopes to inspire appreciation for the ingenuity and resilience of Filipino creativity,” the PCO said on Friday.
The initiative is part of President Marcos’ unwavering commitment to preserving indigenous culture and traditions amid rapid advancements in technology and society that affect the creative landscape.
At the conferment of the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan or National Living Treasures Award in May, the President urged Filipinos, especially the youth, to fulfill their collective duty to “protect, preserve and to pass on the cultural treasures” to future generations.
“It is our civic duty to keep these traditions alive—for within them lie our voice, our strength and the very essence of our identity,” Mr. Marcos said.
Likha 4 will bring together 30 new artisans, who will join seasoned Likha designers and craftsmen to display “a rich blend of traditional skills and contemporary innovations.”
The exhibit is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Foro de Intramuros with no preregistration required.
Visitors may interact with artisans and take part in meaningful cultural exchanges in support of homegrown talent and the future of Philippine arts, culture and heritage.
The PCO added that visitors may also “engage with the creative process, witness live demonstrations and purchase locally made, heritage-rich products.”
“As a space for collaboration, Likha fosters growth and mentorship—connecting master craftsmen with emerging talents and promoting sustainability in the local creative economy,” Malacañang added.
