Senator Loren Legarda emphasized on Wednesday the importance of preserving cultural traditions and providing artisans with a platform to showcase their work.

Legarda made the statement as she welcomed the participants in the 2024 National Arts and Crafts Fair (NACF) at Megatrade Halls 1-3, 5th Level in SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City which showcases traditional Filipino arts, crafts, fashion, and cultural heritage.

“The NACF has served as a powerful platform to mainstream our indigenous arts, crafts, fashion, and cultural heritage into broader markets, allowing local artisans, MSMEs, and our Indigenous communities to gain visibility, access new markets, and sustain their livelihoods,” Legarda said.

“In a world where modern technology often overshadows the traditional, their work proves that nothing can match the beauty of crafts made by hand, with heart and soul poured into every product. They do not just do their crafts for livelihood; they do it to keep the tradition alive, to pass on a piece of their culture, and to safeguard the richness of our heritage for future generations,” she added.

Visitors of the NACF 2024 can purchase authentic, handmade local products, and interact with members of indigenous communities and indigenous artisans to learn about their stories and traditions.

“To all the artisans, MSMEs (micro small medium enterprises), and indigenous communities. Your work is our heritage. It is who we are as Filipinos. As a steadfast advocate of culture and the arts, I commit that I will continue to honor and preserve the excellence of the Filipino people,” Legarda said.

The fair, which will run until Oct. 27, was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Design Center of the Philippines, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), with the support of Legarda’s office. (PNA)