Medal Kolon Datal Dance and Theatre Ensemble, Inc., a dance group based in South Cotabato, is all set to join and compete as the Philippine’s country representative in Cheonan World Dance Festival slated this month. This amidst the struggle to gather more funds to support the group’s travel and logistical expenses.
MKD will be in South Korea for one of the biggest dance festivals in the world starting September 11 to compete with 15 other countries. Other participating countries include Bulgaria, Korea, Israel, Kenya, Peru, Latvia, Seychelles, Slovakia, Mexico, Poland, Brazil, Czech Republic, Malaysia and Russia.
The Medal Kolon Datal has been active in the Philippine Culture and Arts development and preservation for over 17 years. This is part of their continuing advocacy to promote arts and culture through dancing and to develop the talents of young local artists in the province. Most of its members are students, out of school youth, Indigenous Peoples and young professionals that are passionate in the field of performing arts.
Evelyn Fantilanan, the group’s administrator said joining this contest entails huge expenses given the number of participants and the logistical preparations and materials needed. The members will shoulder their own traveling expenses.
They are asking for support for additional funds to lessen the group’s traveling expenses and help in the costs for costume and musical instruments and other incidental expenses. They are appealing for support to their campaign to bring the Philippine flag to this globally-recognized performing arts competition.
She said they already received support from Provincial Government of South Cotabato and the National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA), private sector and some individuals. “It’s a huge help and moral booster that we are getting support from them”, she said.
Unfortunately not all agencies responded to their request for support. “We submitted requests for financial support to some of our local leaders and government agencies but they have no answer until today”, she said. The group will leave for Korea in less than a week.
As of today MKD is still struggling to gather more funds. “Whatever happens, we are more than determined to dance and compete in the streets of Korea waving the Philippine flag and representing our local cultures.”
For donations, please send to:
RCBC Savings Account
Me’dal kolon datal dance and theater ensemble, inc.
Savings Acct no.: 901-441-1459
Marbel Boy 