Bicol: The National Museum of the Philippines in Bicol has launched an art exhibit featuring paintings using abaca (Manila hemp) paper as canvas, aimed at promoting the use and appreciation of various abaca products. Honey Beso, Director II of the Southern Luzon National Museum, emphasized the crucial role of promoting crafts in preserving cultural heritage, which includes both tangible and intangible traditions.

According to Philippines News Agency, Beso said that NMP-5 is committed to implementing programs that support these crafts and strengthen the community. "We serve and promote cultural heritage while continuing to implement programs to empower the community," she said in an interview.

Jesse Aycocho, Bicol Regional Museum Information Officer III, noted that NMP-5 is continuously working with local governments to extend the promotion and conservation of cultural heritage. "The NMP Bicol continues to work with local governments to help them promote and conserve our cultural heritage," she said.

Dorothy Colle, Albay Provincial Tourism Officer, expressed interest in incorporating abaca, particularly abaca canvas, into the celebration of National Arts Month in February next year. "We will also have a National Arts Month celebration in February. We can use this opportunity to showcase our products," she said in an interview.

Meanwhile, Ivan Geromo, one of the exhibitors and lead artist of Sining Catanduanes (SICAT), expressed gratitude to NMP-5, describing the event as a significant milestone for their art group. "We are grateful to the National Museum of Bicol. It is an honor. This marks a new beginning for us as a group," he said.

Geromo added that the event benefits abaca farmers, as promoting abaca paper for art purposes can help revive demand and support their livelihoods. "Once, abaca was used to make money. We believe that through this initiative, we can help abaca farmers," he said.

At least 15 artworks are on display at the exhibit which will run until Oct. 30. On April 15, 2022, former President Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic Act No. 11700 declaring Catanduanes as the Abaca Capital of the Philippines.