By Azer Parrocha
MANILA, (PNA) — Better diplomatic relations with other nations can be pursued through cultural diplomacy, Sen. Loren Legarda said Thursday.
Legarda pointed out during the budget hearing of the Dept. of Foreign Affairs that culture, shaped by heritage, practices, and tradition, is a “powerful tool” in promoting our diplomatic agenda.
“I am confident that our artistry and culture would leave other nations in awe,” Legarda said.
“Our indigenous peoples are the epitome of the tradition, the skill and the creativity of the great Filipino mind.”
Legarda, who chairs the Senate Committee on Cultural Communities, emphasized the necessity for the Philippines to engage the international community on the cultural level.
“If the problem lies on budgetary constraints, I believe we can be more creative. You’d be surprised with the kind of support the private sector would be willing to give,” she added.
During her stint as Chair of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Legarda has reported 19 out of the 21 treaties, 16 of which were adopted as international agreements.
The lady senator also asked the DFA to participate in Venice Biennale, a prestigious contemporary art exhibition.
“I note that many countries, including Bangladesh and Maldives, are participating, and it behooves me to look into the reasons for the Philippines’ lack of representation in such a prestigious global cultural event,” she said.