THREE committees at the House of Representatives approved a measure that aims to promote Philippine music through competitions.

In a virtual hearing, the committees on sports and development; appropriations; and ways and means endorsed House Bill 7817 or the proposed National Music Competitions for Young Artists  Act authored by Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez.

In his explanatory note, Rodriguez said the bill will encourage young artists who excel in music to preserve, develop and promote Philippine music as an art.

“It also aims to discover young artists in the field of choral singing, piano, chamber music, family ensemble, and indigenous instruments,” he added.

House Bill 7817 mandates the Cultural Center of the Philippines to provide financial support, office space and free use of venues and facilities for NMCYA-organized competitions, festivals, productions, and performances.

Rodriguez said financial, technical, scholarship, and research assistance will also come from the National Commission for the Arts and Culture.

The Department of Education, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Commission on Higher Education will help identify, select and train participants.