In celebration of National Disaster Resilience Month 2026, the Municipality of Santa Rita officially opened “Sikan keng Kalalangan” (Strength in Art), a three-day art exhibition.
Under the leadership of Mayor Reynan Calo, the exhibit highlights resilience, hope, and the enduring spirit of communities through the works of talented Kapampangan artists.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO-Santa Rita) in partnership with the Culture, Arts and Tourism Group and the Vision Doers Art Collective as part of the municipality’s observance of National Disaster Resilience Month.
Sikan keng Kalalangan is open to the public from July 17 to 19, 2026 at the 4th Floor of SM City San Fernando Downtown, with the mall serving as the event partner.
Leading the exhibition is homegrown Santa Rita sculptor Ron Salazar, together with fellow exhibiting artists Arnel Garcia, Amewin Samia, Chelssie Pan, Chris Pan, Jade Licup Dominguez, Jascha Tolentino, Maricar Sangalang, Billy Sangalang, Gerald Gloton, and Gretchen Bautista Taruc.
Salazar underscored the challenges faced by emerging artists, particularly those working in sculpture, where production costs can be costly.
“Not all artists have the financial capacity to sustain their craft. Sculpture, in particular, is an expensive discipline because of the cost of materials and production. Support from the local government goes a long way in helping budding artists continue pursuing their passion,” Salazar said.
Meanwhile, Municipal Administrator Earl Tongol said the exhibition reflects Santa Rita’s continuing commitment to promoting local arts, culture, and heritage while providing opportunities for artists from different backgrounds.
The event serves as a reminder that creativity remains an expression of resilience and hope while preserving the rich artistic heritage of Pampanga.