As the nation raises its flag to mark the 127th Philippine Independence Day, one message is more powerful than parades and speeches. In addition to books on history, true freedom can be found in the hands that continue to preserve our culture.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos is bringing that message to life this year with LIKHA 4, a lively three-day festival of Filipino arts, culture and legacy that takes place at the Foro de Intramuros.

“Welcome to Foro de Intramuros, which we converted into a community space to honor our culture and our heritage,” the First Lady said, as artisans, weavers, designers, and locals gathered under one roof — many meeting for the first time, all united by purpose.

Nothing is more uplifting than appreciating the outstanding artistry of the Filipino people. And that gratitude turns into a proclamation of love for our heritage on this Independence Day.

Under the direction of the Office of the First Lady, LIKHA 4 turns Intramuros’ historic streets into a live museum where more than 30 new artisans, LIKHA graduates, and local designers display their handcrafted creations, each of which tells a story, a survival, or a symbol of cultural pride.

Visitors are encouraged to engage rather than merely explore: to watch, ask, listen, and feel. One such example came from a family in Sarangani who traveled eight hours from the highlands to attend LIKHA. Stories like theirs bring this event to life — real people carrying decades of expertise and determination who are finally getting the recognition they deserve.

By connecting LIKHA to Independence Day, the First Lady redefines what it means to be free: having the ability to preserve tradition. It implies recognizing previously missed artistry. It entails fostering an environment in which Filipino creators feel visible, celebrated and supported.