PEACE/performance in Pinas

Dear friends and colleagues in art,

I'm Leonardo Dela Cruz a.k.a Boyet de Mesa, convener and organizer of SIPAF, an international performance arts festival. For four years we have promoted independent art event, cultural exchange, solidarity and peace through performance festivals.

The SIPAF is held during the celebration of Peace month- every September. Ironically, this is also the time when the late Dictator Marcos declared Martial Law (Sept 21) in the Philippines, the Escalante massacre, and the September 11 plane crash in the twin tower in New york. Now, there's Martial Law in Mindanao and violence in Negros Island is rampant and freedom of expressions are threatened.

Amidst the turmoil and violence that is taking place in our country and the world, progressive art serves as a beacon of hope and liberation. It unites the peoples of the world and with one mind and heart to collectively act for change, truth and solidarity.

Artists are peace loving people. Artists and cultural workers are perceptive and are inherent sensitive to their surroundings. The SIPA Festival creates and provides a platform for artists to move with the rhythm and music of the world thriving for change in every step.

We are proud to say that year after year the festival is growing. However, there is always a financial challenge to face in holding such a gathering.

We would like to come to you for financial assistance as the fourth year of the SIPAF has been lacking of funding and resources.

Any contribution will be of great help to our continued organizing of SIPAF, serving humanity and giving hope for Filipinos and the world.

Thank you and looking forward to your support for the success of the Festival. Mabuhay!