THE UNIVERSITY of the Philippines has launched an interactive arts and culture program in collaboration with state universities, public education institutions, and community-based organizations to empower indigenous and marginalized communities across the country.

UP President Angelo Jimenez emphasized the importance of integrating arts and culture into public higher education, noting its role in fostering national transformation through community-based collaborations.

Jimenez highlighted that the program aims to increase participation from indigenous and marginalized communities, showcasing how their rich traditions have inspired innovations in music, performance, and other disciplines.

The initiative began last month with an interactive concert by UP Kontra-GaPi (Kontemporaryong Gamelang Pilipino) at the Philippine Science High School in Butuan City, marking the program’s first major cultural engagement.

Kontra-GaPi, a group of musician-performers led by Art History Professor Pedro Abraham, uses rhythms, sounds, movements, and traditional Southeast Asian-inspired costumes to engage audiences. The ensemble has gained international recognition for its innovative approach to arts education and cultural ambassadorship.

As part of the initiative, an arts and culture caravan was launched to showcase Philippine heritage and provide platforms for creative and educational exchanges between academic institutions and local communities.

The first stop of the program was the CARAGA region, covering the five provinces of Region XIII in Northeastern Mindanao, where indigenous cultural expressions were highlighted.

In support of this initiative, UP, the Commission on Higher Education, and participating educational institutions signed a Declaration of Support for Culture and the Arts, solidifying their commitment to preserving and promoting Philippine cultural heritage.