By: Nanju Francisco
Photos by: Von Francisco
Manama: The Philippine Embassy in the Kingdom of Bahrain, in collaboration with Filipino Artists Bahrain (FAB), successfully hosted “Ani ng Sining, Diwa at Damdamin,” a series of workshops celebrating National Arts Month 2025. The event, held at Sentro Rizal within the Embassy, offered participants a unique opportunity to explore various artistic disciplines.
This year’s National Arts Month celebration was held in accordance with Presidential Proclamation No. 683, signed in 1991. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) led the nationwide observance under the theme “Ani ng Sining, Diwa at Damdamin,” reflecting the belief that the nation’s creativity stems from the spirit and passion of the Filipino people. The Embassy’s program echoed this theme, emphasizing the connection between artistic expression and the cultural identity of the Filipino community in Bahrain.
The program featured workshops on landscape painting, abstract painting, basic acrylic painting, and filmmaking, led by talented Filipino artists residing in Bahrain. The workshops provided hands-on experience and fostered creative expression among attendees.
The event commenced with registration at 8:00 AM, followed by welcome remarks from Ms. Lhanz Cabaraca, President of Filipino Artists Bahrain, and Ms. Gydabelle B. Naval, Principal of the Philippine School Bahrain.
Her Excellency Anne Jalando-on Louis, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Bahrain, delivered a message highlighting the importance of arts and culture in strengthening community bonds and promoting Filipino heritage.
The workshops, which ran from 8:45 AM to 1:00 PM, were facilitated by a team of experienced artists including Kathrina Ragadi, Charles Redillas, Jeah Valerio, Berna Carangan, Newlife Macarambon, Ester Trinidad, and EJ Reyes. Berna Carangan also provided an orientation session to guide participants.
The program also included a lunch break from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM, followed by an awarding ceremony from 1:30 PM to 1:50 PM, recognizing the participants’ accomplishments. Closing remarks were delivered at 1:50 PM, concluding the successful event at 2:00 PM.
“Ani ng Sining, Diwa at Damdamin” served as a platform for cultural exchange and artistic development, showcasing the vibrant talent within the Filipino community in Bahrain. The Philippine Embassy remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote arts and culture, fostering a sense of community and national pride.
