Written By

LUTGARDO LUZA LABAD

Principal Researcher and Writer

BOHOL ASSOCIATION OF NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS (BANGON)

Project Proponent

The “HULMAHAN: A Blueprint for an Academy of Philippine Theater” is a comprehensive project spearheaded by the National Committee of Dramatic Arts under the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. 

The project aims to establish the first national institution dedicated to theater and drama research, training, production, documentation, archiving, and applied theater in the Philippines. This initiative stems from the recognition of the need to professionalize and standardize drama education, synthesizing achievements from community and school theaters into a formal curriculum. By doing so, it seeks to support the growing entertainment and cultural industries, preserve cultural legacies, and provide accessible training opportunities across the country’s diverse regions.

The blueprint was meticulously developed through a series of participatory research methods, including surveys, focus group discussions, webinars, and consultations with national theater community members. 

This multi-faceted approach ensured the inclusion of varied perspectives and needs, ultimately shaping a detailed plan for the Academy. The envisioned Academy will serve as a central body for Philippine Theater, offering a space for creative and collaborative growth, and supporting a wide range of theater practitioners from academics to professionals. The blueprint outlines strategic directions, organizational structures, funding strategies, and curricular programs, all aimed at fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and professionally equipped theater community in the Philippines.

The National Executive Council on Dramatic Arts of the NCCA which initiated and guided the project during its implementation..

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The SEOUL INSTITUTE OF THE ARTS in South Korea, a major inspiration and model of the envisioned National Academy of Philippine Theater

Some of the various national and regional theater and cultural personalities, leaders, champions, academic and CIVIL SOCIETY institutions that were engaged in the research and development of the APT blueprint:

The Various Regional Drama Groups that will engage with the APT

Schematic Roadmap of the Blueprint

The Mission of the APT

To spearhead a nationwide movement of theater educators,  learners, and creatives engaged in substantive, inclusive, and innovative theater education, towards the enhancement of the sustainable quality of life of the Filipino people