Good morning, students, teachers, guests, ladies and gentlemen.

Today, I am emotional as I pay homage to the person who made me, shaped me and prepared me for a brighter future. I am talking about my mother for whom the school is named and dedicated – The JUANITA ARNEDO DU SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS. Juanita was a public elementary teacher in this same school, the San Isidro Elementary School, who was known for her deep love and passion for the performing arts. She was an all-around scriptwriter, director, trainer, stage manager, custume designer and what-have-you. I remember her writing scripts and pieces for balagtas, tula, declamation, oration and skits. She would bring her trainees to our house and their practice sessions would end until the wee hours of the morning.

Growing in that kind of environment (more so a mother’s girl), I have learned to appreciate and enjoy the beauty of expression through art at a young age. As a child, I joined dancing and drama guilds, I joined (and was a consistent winner) contests in oration, declamation and singing. I even joined the beauty contest for Miss Luna when I was just 13 years old. Luckily, I won. When my father saw my picture with a crown and a paper scepter, he said “Paano nanalo eh hindi pa yata naghilamos. At times, when I am bored, I would go to the second floor of our house, open the windows wide open and sing to the top of my voice. My elder sister Clet would then be mad at me, saying ‘hindi ka na nahiya, mali-mali naman wordings mo’. But those were the things I enjoyed, the moments I clearly remember as a child.

As a society, we often focus on the importance of STEM education – science, technology, engineering, and math. And while these subjects are undoubtedly important, we must not overlook the value of education in the arts.

The arts are an essential component of a well-rounded education. Education in the arts teaches us to think creatively, to see the world in new and innovative ways, and to express ourselves in ways that words alone cannot.

By exposing children to music, theater, dance, and visual arts, we provide them with opportunities to develop their creativity, critical thinking skills, and emotional intelligence. It teaches them to appreciate beauty, to empathize with others, and to understand the complexities of the human experience. It can improve students' social and emotional development, such as increasing their self-esteem, empathy, and social skills.

Education in the arts is essential for preserving our cultural heritage. Art is a reflection of the values, beliefs, and experiences of a society. By studying the arts, we gain insight into the history and culture of different communities and learn to appreciate the diversity and richness of our heritage.

Despite these benefits, however, education in the arts is often neglected in our schools and communities. Some parents and the older generation tend to discourage or even shun the idea of letting their children pursue their love for the arts. Arts is often denoted as unprofitable, a waste of time and energy, or just a hobby.

We have to change that mindset. There can be money in the arts. In fact the government just passed the Creatives Law realizing the big potential of the creatives industry. This law recognizes that Filipinos are by nature creative, and the creative industry has a big potential to lift the people out of poverty.

I hope this JUANITA ARNEDO DU SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS can serve as a tool to inspire teachers and children in Luna and in Apayao to experience the joys of the arts and excel in it. 

Lifted from Atty. Benedicta Du-Baladad's Speech during the inauguration of the Juanita Arnedo-Du School of Performing Arts on April 21, 2023, at San Isidro Elementary School, Luna, Apayao.