An ordinance declaring Feb. 21 of every year as “Kinaray-a Day” in the province of Antique was introduced during the first regular session of the provincial board on Monday.

“We want to promote the Kinaray-a as a language of the people of Antique through holding a special cultural observance,” said Board Member Dante Beriong in an interview.

He said the proposed Kinaray-a Day Ordinance of Antique mandates an annual observance to promote the Kinaray-a language, culture and heritage and appropriating funds therefor.

Approved on first reading, the proposed local legislation mandates educational institutions to have activities such as storytelling, essay writing, and many more using the Kinaray-a language.

Public officials and employees in government offices shall be encouraged to use the language in official events, programs and announcements during the celebration.

“Local radio stations, newspapers and online platforms shall be encouraged to broadcast and publish content in Kinaray-a,” Beriong said.

Beriong said an annual budget of PHP100,000 shall be allocated for the Kinaray-a Day activities.

The Antique Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, in coordination with the Provincial Youth Development Office, Department of Education Antique Division, tertiary Level educational institutions in Antique, Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino and other relevant agencies, shall be responsible for the implementation of the ordinance when finally approved.

The proposed ordinance was referred to the Committee on History and Cultural Heritage, chaired by Board Member Zoilo Bernardo Tubianosa, for public hearing. (PNA)