Visit the ASEAN Corner at Robinsons Galleria until June 30!
Diplomats, culture practitioners, academics, and community leaders gathered at the ARTablado Gallery, Robinsons Galleria, for Living Heritage: Cultural Identity Dialogues, a special event held in celebration of Eid’l Adha and the opening of the ASEAN Corner on 29 May 2026. Organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in partnership with Robinsons Galleria, the event formed part of the National Heritage Month celebration, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural heritage while fostering meaningful dialogue on identity, community, and regional cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world.
In his recorded message, NCCA Chairman Eric B. Zerrudo expressed his hope that the gathering would remind participants of a simple yet powerful truth: that despite diverse backgrounds, traditions, and identities, people continue to seek meaning, connection, and a sense of belonging. This spirit resonated throughout the afternoon’s discussions, which brought together H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino bin Anthony, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines; Mr. Shariful Hashim S. Mansul, Senior Research Associate of the UP Institute of Islamic Studies; Mr. Hojatollah H. Abedi, Cultural Counselor of the Iran Cultural Center; Ms. Victorina Hesty Dewayani, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Indonesia in the Philippines; Mr. Mouablong Xayvue, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of the Lao PDR in the Philippines; and Mr. Lafayette Alonto of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF).
Through their shared perspectives, the speakers reflected on how culture continues to shape identities and connect communities across generations and borders. Discussions explored the ways younger generations engage with culture in digital spaces, the challenges of preserving authenticity amid rapid technological change, and the vital role communities play in keeping traditions alive. The conversations also highlighted how cultural exchange and heritage tourism can foster deeper understanding among ASEAN societies while creating opportunities for local communities to share their stories, traditions, and aspirations with wider audiences.
Visit the Eid’l Adha Panel Exhibit and ASEAN Corner located at the ARTablado Gallery in Robinsons Galleria
Beyond the panel discussions, guests witnessed the opening of the Eid’l Adha Panel Exhibit and ASEAN Corner and enjoyed a cultural performance by AKAYU. These moments offered participants an opportunity not only to learn about different cultural traditions but also to experience them in a more personal and meaningful way.
The ASEAN Corner and Eid’l Adha Exhibit will remain open for public viewing at the ARTablado Gallery until 30 June 2026. Meanwhile, for those who were unable to attend or wish to revisit the discussions, recordings of the sessions are available on the NCCA Official Facebook Page through link http://www.bit.ly/LivingHeritageOnline.
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