LIKHA recognizes Filipino heritage through crafts

Filipino artistry took center stage this week as the annual LIKHA Exhibition opened its doors in Intramuros, bringing together traditional craftsmen and artisans from across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao in celebration of the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence.

Spearheaded by the Office of the First Lady, LIKHA serves as a platform to promote and preserve traditional Filipino crafts, showcasing the ingenuity of weavers, woodworkers, and creatives across the archipelago. This year’s edition was officially launched on Thursday, June 5, with a ceremonial bell-ringing led by First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos at the newly inaugurated Foro De Intramuros, a modern event space built on the historic grounds of the old Ateneo De Manila University.

Joining the First Lady at the opening ceremony were Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, Presidential Adviser for Pasig River Development Jerry Acuzar, and Intramuros Administration head Atty. Joan Padilla.

During the exhibit tour, Secretary Frasco expressed her continued support for local artisans by purchasing handcrafted jewelry and bags from Cebu, her home province. She also received a handmade ukulele, a gift she noted with joy as she occasionally plays music during her leisure time.

Running from June 6 to 8, the exhibit at Foro De Intramuros offers a diverse range of handmade items— from intricate textiles and woven goods to traditional instruments and fashion accessories. LIKHA is a key component of this year’s Independence Day festivities, spotlighting Filipino heritage through craftsmanship and cultural pride.

The Department of Tourism and Department of Trade and Industry have both expressed their support for the initiative, viewing it as aligned with national efforts to empower creative communities and promote sustainable livelihoods rooted in culture and tradition.