The Province of Cavite, through the Office of the Provincial Tourism Officer, proudly hosted the 4th CALABARZON Culture Summit with the theme “Hibla ng Kamalayan – Paghahabi ng Malikhaing Diwa: Weaving the Creative Spirit of CALABARZON” on October 23, 2025, at the International Convention Center, Cavite State University (CvSU), Indang, Cavite.
The annual summit gathered hundreds of participants from various local government units, academic institutions, and cultural organizations across Region IV-A, all united in their mission to preserve, promote, and enrich the region’s vibrant cultural heritage.
The event formally opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Ma. Agnes P. Nuestro, President of Cavite State University, who expressed gratitude to the Provincial Government of Cavite and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) for selecting CvSU as this year’s venue. She emphasized the vital role of academic institutions in safeguarding culture and heritage, nurturing future culture bearers and creative leaders.
Delivering the opening remarks on behalf of Ms. Marichu G. Tellano, Deputy Executive Director of NCCA, Ms. Caroline B. Mizal, Head of NCCA’s Planning and Policy Office, highlighted the summit’s role as a platform for collaboration and innovation. She noted that weaving the creative spirit of CALABARZON goes beyond preserving tradition—it strengthens the region’s identity through shared stories and artistic expression.
Representing Governor Francisco Gabriel D. Remulla, Ms. Elinia Imelda Rozelle Sangalang, Provincial Tourism Officer, conveyed the Governor’s message of support and appreciation to all participants and partner institutions. She reaffirmed Cavite’s strong commitment to advancing cultural awareness, promoting creative industries, and preserving heritage across the province and beyond.
The summit featured an engaging lineup of lectures and discussions led by distinguished experts and cultural advocates, including Prof. Felipe “Jun” De Leon, Jr., former NCCA Chairperson; Ms. Caroline B. Mizal; Ms. Ricamela Palis, Chairperson of ARTIST, Inc.; Mr. Phillip Norbert Ahmad L. Medina, President of the Silang Historical Society; EnP. Lorenz G. Palec of Palec and Amigos Urban Enviro; Mr. Joether A. Francisco of Cavite State University; Mr. Guillermo Ramos, Jr., Managing Director of the Ugnayan Center for Filipino Gastronomy; and Dr. Carlos P. Buasen, Jr., Regional Director of NCIP IV-A.
An open forum followed, allowing participants to exchange insights and perspectives on culture, heritage, and creative development.
A highlight of the event was the awarding of winners for the Digital Photography and Logo-Making Contests, showcasing CALABARZON’s artistic talents. Mr. Jeffrey Sandoval won the grand prize in the photography contest for “Mga Kamay ng Pamanang Buhay”, while Mr. Christopher Macerin emerged as the top winner in the logo-making contest for his design symbolizing unity and creativity across the region.
Adding color and rhythm to the summit were cultural performances by the CvSU Chorale Ensemble, CvSU Cultural Dance Group, Las Cuerdas Caviteños–Rondalla, ARTIST, Inc., and Indigenous Peoples from Tanay, Rizal.
One of the event’s most significant moments was the turnover ceremony of hosting responsibilities to the Provincial Government of Laguna, which will serve as the next host of the CALABARZON Culture Summit.
The event concluded on an inspiring note with Mr. Edward Perez, CALABARZON SCC Co-Chairperson, leading the closing program—capped by a heartfelt performance from ARTIST, Inc.
The 4th CALABARZON Culture Summit truly embodied the spirit of “Hibla ng Kamalayan”—weaving together the threads of creativity, collaboration, and cultural pride that define the soul of CALABARZON. 
— Office of the Provincial Information Officer (OPIO)