The key points are temporarily unavailable. You can still read the full Story below.
Main Points
Baguio City, Philippines – Local film and theater director Ferdinand Balanag Jr., along with several artists and critics, publicly criticized the theatrical production “Rikus” that was staged at the 9th Ibagiw Creative Festival. The festival opened on 6 November 2026 at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center (BCCC) and is the city’s flagship event celebrating its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art. The festival’s theme, “RIKUS: A Creative Circular Baguio,” was intended to highlight the city’s artistic heritage while promoting discussions on sustainability and the circular economy. “Rikus” is an Ilocano word meaning to go around or revolve, and the festival’s name “Ibagiw” refers to the people of Baguio. Balanag described the production as a “major theatrical fiasco” that he felt fell far below the standards expected of a UNESCO Creative City. He said, “The most appalling part of this theater fiasco is how people seem determined to cover up its ugliness by turning a blind eye to the obvious and drowning it in exaggerated praise.” He also questioned the use of artificial intelligence in composing the production’s music, expressing concern that it could compromise originality and the craftsmanship of local musicians. Other critics, many of whom are artists themselves, echoed Balanag’s concerns. They praised his willingness to voice what they see as uncomfortable truths and warned that complacency and unearned praise could hinder artistic growth. Several commentators also raised the issue of AI in creative works, arguing that it may undermine the contributions of traditional creators. Balanag called for greater accountability, transparency, and a renewed commitment to authentic artistic excellence in Cordillera theater. The remarks have sparked a broader conversation among Baguio’s cultural community about maintaining the city’s international reputation as a creative hub. Article source: The Daily Tribune | Image credit: The Daily Tribune
Baguio City, Philippines – Local film and theater director Ferdinand Balanag Jr., along with several artists and critics, publicly criticized the theatrical production “Rikus” that was staged at the 9th Ibagiw Creative Festival. The festival opened on 6 November 2026 at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center (BCCC) and is the city’s flagship event celebrating its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art. The festival’s theme, “RIKUS: A Creative Circular Baguio,” was intended to highlight the city’s artistic heritage while promoting discussions on sustainability and the circular economy. “Rikus” is an Ilocano word meaning to go around or revolve, and the festival’s name “Ibagiw” refers to the people of Baguio. Balanag described the production as a “major theatrical fiasco” that he felt fell far below the standards expected of a UNESCO Creative City. He said, “The most appalling part of this theater fiasco is how people seem determined to cover up its ugliness by turning a blind eye to the obvious and drowning it in exaggerated praise.” He also questioned the use of artificial intelligence in composing the production’s music, expressing concern that it could compromise originality and the craftsmanship of local musicians. Other critics, many of whom are artists themselves, echoed Balanag’s concerns. They praised his willingness to voice what they see as uncomfortable truths and warned that complacency and unearned praise could hinder artistic growth. Several commentators also raised the issue of AI in creative works, arguing that it may undermine the contributions of traditional creators. Balanag called for greater accountability, transparency, and a renewed commitment to authentic artistic excellence in Cordillera theater. The remarks have sparked a broader conversation among Baguio’s cultural community about maintaining the city’s international reputation as a creative hub.
News Desk is the editorial publishing account for Tringlobe Media News, covering breaking news, public affairs, entertainment, community developments and regional stories across Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean and internationally.
