Government program supporting young musical artists

Dear PAO,

I am a senior citizen and former public servant retiring here in the Philippines after years of being abroad. Since my return, I've noticed the diversity and immense talent in the local music scene, especially among the younger generation, like that of my grandson. Seeing their talent and potential, I wonder if there are current government programs aimed at developing and harnessing the musical talent of the youth to promote music and culture in general. I hope your office can enlighten me.

Eva

Dear Eva,

To answer your query, we shall refer to Republic Act (RA) 11915, known as the «National Music Competitions for Young Artists Act.» This law was passed as part of the policy of the State to recognize and support non-government organizations that develop and discover young musical artists and talents and to promote and preserve Philippine music and culture. (Sec. 2)

Under this law, the National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) Program is designated as the Philippine National Youth Development Program for Music. It aims to raise standards of excellence in music through various competitions and festivals, including the celebration of the National Music Week for Young Artists pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 1173, series of 1973. (Sec. 3)

Related to this, NAMCYA, the Philippine National Youth Development Program for Music, identified the following, among others, as its objectives:

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"(a) Discover outstanding musical talents through nationwide competitions...;

"(b) Assist in the cultivation, development and advancement of outstanding young Filipino musicians through scholarships, training, performances, and other forms of incentives;

"© Preserve, develop and promote Philippine music as an art and as an important component of cultural and social development;

"(d) Establish a training program for music leaders, experts and teachers; xxx

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"(f) Encourage and support the creation and performance of works by young Filipino composers and make possible their publication and dissemination;

"(g) Recognize artistic achievement through awards, grants and services;

"(h) Undertake a continuing program of research, documentation, and