United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon received a mural from President Gloria M. Arroyo when he came to the country sometime in October for an international convention. The UN chief appreciated the gift greatly. He promised to put the mural in the UN headquarters in New York, a very great honor for the Filipino artists and the Philippines as well.
The painting, presented through the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) on October 29, 2008 in Malacanang. was made by the Batanes collective artists, to wit: Ronald Gonzales, Xavier Abelador, Javier Ponce and Jaypee Fortes.
The mural was recognized by Ki-Moon for highlighting the importance of culture in the achievement of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (UNMDGs).
The mural will now be framed and will have an official installation scheduled. The occasion was also utilized for the meeting of Chairman Labrador with cultural, civic and educational leaders, organized through UN Consul General Cecile Rebong to discuss the mechanics and operations of Balik-Artist and Balik-Teacher program that can parallel the Balik-Scientist project of the country.
The painting that was presented on October 29, 2008 depicts the eight UNMDGs: ending of poverty and hunger, having universal education, promoting gender equality, protecting children’s health, combating HIV and AIDS, sustaining the environment and forging global partnerships. It coincides with the Philippines prominence in the UN global count of Stand and Take Action Against Poverty.
“Your commitment to the Millennium Development Goals is inspiring,” said Ki-Moon in his speech. “You have shown remarkable leadership on climate change. Indeed, the numerous alternative energy protects in which the Philippines has invested is one of the highest among countries at a similar level of development.”
President Arroyo also conferred the Order of Sikatuna (Rank of Rajah) to Ki-Moon in recognition of his achievements in international relations and for his invaluable contribution for the advancement of global peace and development, the protection of human rights and the pursuit of local UN endeavors.
Ki-moon’s Manila visit was part of his four-country tour in Asia, which he addressed the opening session of the Second Global Forum on Migration and Development (GFMD) at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, which drew government representatives from 163 UN member states.
From reports of Johanna M. Sampan
