Dong wants more recognition, support for Pampanga artists

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO— Third District Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales vowed to support Kapampangan artists here through legislation and other possible assistance stressing that artists need all the help that they can get from the government.

Gonzales made this statement during the My City, My SM, My Art event at the SM City Pampanga were artists Wilfredo Tadeo Layug, Eduardo Mutuc, and Director Brillante Mendoza were honored for their artistic contribution in their respective fields.

“There is indeed a wealth of artistry among Kapampangans. But we need to sustain such creativity with proper government support so that the next generation would continue the traditions,” Gonzales said, adding that visual arts and their artists should be recognized and protected as part of the province’s treasure. He added that Kapampangan artists should be at the lead when it comes to projects that involves visual arts and that government should patronize such works whenever it could.

Gonzales said that he is in discussion with Pampanga artists on how to best support their cause adding that legislative measures

are one of best possible area to pursue to better serve the needs of visual artists. Gonzales also commended the works of Layug and Mendoza for having attracted international attention into the skill and artistry of the Kapampangan artists.

“It is not just the country that they are representing, it is their roots their province and their culture. They have and will continue to broaden the definition of what a Kapampangan artist should be,” Gonzales said.

Gonzales added that he will continuously support initiatives for Kapampangan artists.