The Provincial Government of Bohol, led by Gov. Aris Aumentado, through the Center for Culture and Arts Development (CCAD) presented its 2025 Accomplishment Report during the flag-raising ceremony at the Capitol Grounds on February 2, 2026, underscoring a year of strong artistic growth, heritage protection, and creative industry gains.
Presented by Officer-In-Charge Emerson Pinos, CCAD implemented 16 major artistic programs in 2025 that provided platforms for creative expression, skills development, and livelihood opportunities for Boholano artists and cultural workers.
These initiatives covered diverse disciplines such as music, dance, visual arts, theater, film, fashion, literature, and culinary arts, ensuring broad participation and sustained talent development across the province. Flagship activities included Malikhain 2025, the Bohol Theater Festival, DIBUHO Animation Film Training, the Duyog International Music Festival, and capacity-building programs for educators and emerging artists.
A significant milestone was the expansion of CCAD’s Comprehensive Assistance Program, which supported 24 individuals and groups who represented Bohol in national and international cultural and artistic engagements.
This was reinforced by continued legislative support from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, which approved policies granting financial incentives and assistance to Boholano cultural exemplars participating in accredited events and competitions.
On the global stage, Bohol achieved historic recognition in December 2025 with the inscription of the Asin Tibuok salt-making tradition in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.
Approved during the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in New Delhi, India, the recognition honored the centuries-old craftsmanship of Boholano Mang-asinay and highlighted the urgent need to preserve and transmit this living heritage to future generations.
Beyond global recognition, CCAD continued to strengthen inclusive cultural initiatives across the province.
Aligned with the Capitol’s Strategic Governance Roadmap, programs supporting indigenous communities, including the Eskaya, were advanced alongside sustained cultural advocacy and peacebuilding efforts for Muslim communities, promoting representation, unity, and cultural pride.
CCAD likewise reinforced culture-driven governance through the strengthening of Local Culture and Arts Councils (LCACs) in various local government units.
These efforts positioned culture as a key pillar of inclusive and sustainable growth in Bohol, aligning cultural development with the province’s broader vision as the country’s first and only UNESCO Global Geopark. (PIMO/MAPI)
