Arts and Culture Exchange (ACE)

The Diaspora is fast emerging as one of the forces for development in the globalizing world. Yet development is not only embodied in a nation's socio-economic development and a population's educational attainments in science and technology. Development must include enrichment of education by providing adequate opportunities for immersion in culture and the arts. The Philippines in particular is rich with these gifts, but awareness, appreciation, preservation and promotion must be emphasized, especially with the nation's large youth population.

In line with its mission to promote stronger economic as well as cultural ties between the Philippines and Filipinos overseas, the CFO has initiated the Arts and Culture Exchange program (ACE), one of the components of CFO's flagship initiative Diaspora to Development (D2D). ACE will serve to promote and facilitate the exchange of the arts and culture between members of Filipino communities abroad, including succeeding generations, and the Philippines, their country of origin.

Heritage, culture and the arts are the soul of a nation, and for every Filipino, no matter what country he or she has migrated to, these are still part of who they are. Although immersed in a foreign culture, the Filipino emigrant has an indelible memory of the traditions, fiestas, religious practices, music, dances, handicrafts and native cuisine of his homeland. What's been etched in one's heart and soul are not easily erased, and along with reminiscing, there is the eternal yearning to stay connected, to be part of the Philippines regardless of great distances. In addition, young generations of Filipinos overseas are in search of their roots, not understanding the heritage they are a part of, without costly and time consuming travel to their parents' homeland.

There is no doubt that the Filipino is a race gifted with talented people in the field of art. Filipinos are inherently musical and artistic, and many who have migrated have taken their talents in fine arts and performing arts and further developed them. After upgrading and refining skills many artists are inspired to share their gifts with those in their homeland, but they need trusted connections and facilities to do so. At the same time, numerable local artistic talents, both individuals and groups, seek opportunities to showcase their work or performing talents abroad.

An organized, systematic program for the exchange of arts and culture can provide opportunities for both sides of the equation as well as help educate non-Filipinos about the rich heritage, culture and the arts of the Philippines. Working closely with government, non-government, local and international institutions, including education, museum, Philippine associations abroad and private individuals, CFO will facilitate locating talented Overseas Filipinos through the building of directories, accessing talented Filipinos, and connecting them with reputable promoters to provide venues and audiences both here and abroad. Working with others, CFO will develop the strategies to sustain a systematic and sustainable arts and culture exchange program.

Link to Arts and Culture Exchange website: http://artsandcultureexchange.cfo.gov.ph/