5 December 2013 - The Philippines’ Earthsavers Dream Ensemble performed at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France on December 03 as part of UNESCO’s commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The Ensemble is composed of young adults who are physically and mentally challenged and those coming from disadvantaged backgrounds and indigenous communities.  Led by Mrs. Cecile Guidote-Alvarez, the group was designated as UNESCO Artists for Peace in 2003 in recognition of its dedication to “UNESCO’s aims and ideals and its contribution, through the performing arts, to the propagation and promotion of the Organization’s message of peace, tolerance and hope.”

On December 04, the group of nine performers danced, sang, and acted out their message and their call to protect Mother Nature, to stop violence, and to promote tolerance and understanding among the peoples of the world.  They also included in their program some Philippine cultural numbers such as the tinikling, pandango sa ilaw, and maglalatik dances.  As the holiday season was already being felt in Paris, the Ensemble also offered some joyful Christmas numbers to the appreciative audience comprising of representatives of civil society, the UNESCO Secretariat, and Permanent Delegations.

During her welcome remarks, Philippine Ambassador and Permanent Delegate Cristina G. Ortega mentioned that the Earthsavers Dream Ensemble’s message is especially poignant in light of the devastation that has touched the Philippines just a few weeks ago.  She expressed the hope that this message is heard and acted on responsibly by the international community especially for the sake of the countries facing the real challenge of climate change. 

The Ambassador also encouraged the audience “to continue working to promote equal opportunities for persons with disabilities and to ensure an inclusive development agenda” so that persons of disabilities could also contribute their talents and skills to society.

Ms. Wendy Watson-Wright, Assistant Director General for the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) and the representative of the UNESCO Director General to the event, also thanked the Ensemble for being in Paris “to  celebrate the power of art and creativity, for changing mindsets and building a better, more inclusive world.” END