Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamadis the latest addition to Alice Reyes Dance Philippines’ expansive repertoire of Filipino works, this time designed specifically for Children’s Dance Theater.
This new offering marks a significant milestone for one of ARDP’s talented choreographers, Erl Sorilla, who has crafted both the book and his first full-length choreography.
The production is brought to life with a captivating musical score by award-winning singer-songwriter Toto Sorioso, and magical sets and costumes designed by the renowned Filipino Director and Broadway Designer, Loy Arcenas.
Under the mentorship of National Artist for Dance, Alice Reyes, and ARDP Artistic Director, Ronelson Yadao, this production promises to be a magical experience for young audiences.
The story follows the adventures of Juan Tamad, the misunderstood boy in town, and his loyal monkey companion, Matsing. Aided by Juan’s unique ability to converse with animals and his innate love for nature, they set out to find the village’s most prized treasure, the fruit of all their hard-work and labor stolen by the greedy ‘Buwaya,’ the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ A challenge he must complete to win the hand of Maria Masipag.
Along his journey, Juan encounters a variety of animals, including those from the stories of ‘Pagong at Kuneho,’ ‘Ang Gamu-gamu at ang Lampara,’ and ‘Buwaya at ang Paboreal.’ Through these encounters, Juan learns valuable moral lessons that guide him on his path. With the help of the animals, Juan grows in character, and ultimately finds the ‘Gintong Niyog.’ Inspired by the classic Filipino children’s stories of ‘Juan Tamad,’ this production brings a new twist to the beloved tales.
The new work will feature ARDP company dancers Renzen Arboleda as the titular Juan Tamad, with Karla Santos as Maria Masipag. Dan Dayo will take on the role of Juan’s trusted sidekick, Matsing, with John Ababon as Pagong, Monica Gana as Kuneho, Earl John Arisola as Buwaya, Krislynne Buri as Paboreal, and Francia Alejandro as Lampara,. Also featured are ARDP trainees Gianna Hervas and Crizza Urmeneta as the Gamu–gamu.
This production is specifically created for students, as it aligns with Grade 1-10 and High School subjects, including Filipino, Arts, Music, Humanities, Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao, Personal Development, Araling Panlipunan, Physical Education. Through dance and storytelling, Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad offers an enriching, multidisciplinary educational experience.
Mga Kuwento Ni Juan Tamad premieres on November 10, 2024, 10:00 AM, and 4:00 PM at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater as part of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Children’s Biennale. Admission is on a Pay-What-You-Can basis. Please stay tuned on Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Social Media Pages for registration links.
Held earlier this month from October 9 to 13, the country’s national art fair showcased a convergence of Philippine art in its many shades. ManilART ’24, with its theme “Prisms and Mosaics,” reflected the diversity of Philippine contemporary art, uniting various expressions into a vibrant, cohesive whole. This annual event, now on its 16th year, banners the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)’s overall celebration for Museums and Galleries Month, themed “Ani ng Sining, Bayang Malikhain” (Art’s Harvest, A Creative Nation).
Visions in Glass: The Legacy of Ramon Orlina
Philippine glassmaster Ramon Orlina’s long-awaited coffee table book, Visions in Glass, authored by art critic Cid Reyes and designed by Dopy Doplon, showcases his remarkable journey as an artist. Weighing 6 kilograms and comprising 57 chapters, this book is hefty not just in its contents. It spans Orlina’s artistic journey from the 1960s to the present, highlighting his life’s work of transforming discarded glass cullets into stunning art pieces. The overall project was brought to life and spearheaded by his wife, Lay Ann Orlina.
Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey with Cid Reyes and Ramon Orlina.
The book launch attracted notable personalities, including National Artist Virgilio Almario, Secretary Sonny Angara, Senator Allan Cayetano and Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano, Dr. Jimmy Laya, celebrity art patron Ms. Assunta De Rossi Ledesma, Metrobank Foundation’s Chito and Anna Sobrepeña, and Ms. Daphne Osena Paez, among many others. Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach-Jauncey was honored as the book’s Ambassador at the launch. In attendance at both the book launch and the vernissage night were top diplomats including Ambassador Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino of Malaysia, Ambassador Tull Traisorat of Thailand, Ambassador Dr. Lai Thai Binh of Vietnam, Ambassador Dr. Titanilla Toth of Hungary, Mr. Martin Karuse from the German Embassy and Mr. Mouablong Xayvue from the Embassy of Laos. Apart from this milestone book launch, Orlina has inspired his children, Michael and Anna, to pursue careers as glass artists, and his family has also established Museo Orlina as a cultural landmark in Batangas to honor his artistry.
Illuminating the Mosaic: Some Highlights of ManilART ’24
This year’s fair featured an impressive array of works from 32 participating galleries. Plugged into Fernalia: Art in the Age of AI, curated by Gromyko Semper, explored the intersection of art and technology and its implications for contemporary creativity. The exhibit showcased a diverse range of artistic forms, including painting, sculpture, digital art, photography, and mixed media, featuring works from various artists such as Noel Sadicon, Joshua Palisoc, Pen Medina, Isobel Francisco, Jonathan Benitez, and Austrian fantastic realist artist Peter Gric. The exhibition was organized into four thematic sections: “Origins and Inspirations,” reflecting on AI’s initial promise to the art world; “Ethics and Appropriation,” addressing artists’ concerns about the use of their work by AI companies; “Human vs. Machine,” comparing AI-generated art with human creations; and “Future Visions,” envisioning the future of creativity in an AI-driven landscape.
Several artists chose to focus on nostalgia as their muse across various exhibitions. Hues of Nostalgia featured glass artist Anna Orlina and painters Bea Policarpio and Abby Añover, each interpreting a chosen decade. The Blast from the Past series by Otep Bañez presented mixed media installations infused with childhood memories and nostalgic technologies like the Walkman. Ang mga Anik-Anik ng Diwang Di-Malirip, curated by Gromyko Semper and Cheryl Hironaka, explored the Filipino practice of collecting small, sentimental objects known as “anik-anik,” representing personal history and memory. These exhibitions reflected on the intricacies of human existence and the connections formed through treasured memories.
This year’s iteration of the fair also featured collaborations between renowned sculptors. Steampunk Unplugged, by Danny Rayos del Sol and Ram Mallari, combined intricately carved ostrich eggshells and carabao skulls with brass robotic figures, pushing the limits of imagination. Jik Villanueva and Ramon Orlina showcased larger-than-life sculptures of brass ants carrying glass “grains,” highlighting that persistence yields good fortune.
Ed Coronel’s massive works graced the center-stage area of ManilART. The hyperrealist painter’s pieces, including the award-winning portrait of the Rayos del Sol family, Rays of the Sun, and his mural triptych The Wave, inspired by his ponderings on the West Philippine Sea, explore themes of cultural heritage and resilience through a blend of realism and expression.
Expanding the Experience: Conversations and Collaborations at ManilART
ManilART continued to offer its regular repertoire of talks, satellite shows, and refreshments. The fair hosted discussions that delved into the intersections of art, artists’ rights, and new technologies. This series of talks began on October 10 with Ian Felix Alquiros discussing Art for Stigma Reduction, followed by Hon. Christopher de Venecia’s talk on the Creative Industries Act and its significance for the visual arts and galleries on October 11. On October 12, Abe Orobia illuminated fairgoers about Art in the Colonial Periods, while Atty. Emerson Cuyo addressed An Artist’s Moral and Economic Rights, Duties, and Obligations. The round of talks concluded with a panel discussion featuring Marian Pastor Roces, Cristian Townsend, Noel Sadicon, and Jerry Yapo, who explored AI’s role in shaping contemporary artistic creation.
ManilART ‘24 also featured world-class satellite exhibits. One of these satellite shows, Viaje 4: Filipinism, was hosted across Europe, including Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, delves into the essence of Filipino identity through the works of several artists, including Nino Cris Odosis, Joseph Albao, Ian Maigan, and Windsor Magnaye. Another notable exhibition, Refracted Light, occurred on October 6-7 at Ricardo’s Galeria Al Fresco in Amadeo, Cavite. Lastly, Kutkot Pa More, a solo exhibit by Elmer Nocheseda at Galerie Du Soleil in Taguig, explored his distinctive “kutkot” technique as he came to terms with the onset of Parkinson’s disease.
Lastly, ManilART’s partners provided a delightful wine-and-dine experience while viewing art. Purefoods Deli elevated a beloved brand with its quality franks, sausages, and meats; MOD Coffee offered the perfect pick-me-up; Sebastiao Cocktails helped everyone unwind; and Via Mare was once again present to serve Filipino culinary favorites alongside the art fair.
“ManilART ’24: Prisms and Mosaics” was a celebration of all the shades and hues that make up Philippine contemporary art. Each fairgoer contributed to this vibrant display, reflecting the depth and creativity of the nation’s artistic landscape.
ManilART ’24’s participating galleries include 29 Kapitolyo Art Space, 371 Art Space, Annual Sculpture Review, Art Circle, Art for Space Gallery PH, Artalyer, Artienda Art Gallery, Artologist Gallery, Artes Orientes, AT Art Gallery, Daloy Likha Art Gallery, Drybrush Gallery, Espacio Manila, Florentino Gallery, Galeria Bañez, Galleria Nicolas, Galerie Artes, Galerie Raphael, Gallery Nine, Historia Art, Legacy, Life ’n Arts Gallery, M Gallery MNL, Museo Orlina, NAMI Art Gallery, OMVI Art Gallery, Pugad ni Art, Rayos del Sol Gallery, Renaissance Art Gallery, VAM International Art Gallery, Village Art Gallery and Ysobel Art Gallery.
The fair was supported by partners Museo Orlina, The City of Taguig, SM Supermalls, SMX Convention Center, Ladder Events Production, Vision Prime Media, Future Studios, Design Phoundry, Ticketbooth.ph, Via Mare Catering, Purefoods Deli, BDO, MOD Coffee, Grentek Solutions, Marco Polo Ortigas, Art Caravan, and Sebastiao Cocktails. Media partners include ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC), The Philippine Star, Inquirer.net, Metro, Inquirer Pop!, The Manila Times, Manila Bulletin, Preen.ph, Business Mirror, Peoples Journal, WhenInManila.com, Scout, Pilipino Mirror, Nolisoli.ph, Klik.ph, Cebu Daily News, Experience Travel & Living, Hue TVEverywhere, Malaya Business Insight, Manila Standard, and Alike.
Featured Artist Stella Rojas presents her 33 captivating artworks at the esteemed Gallery C within the hotel, offering a glimpse into her unforgettable European adventures.
Conrad Manila proudly unveils the latest addition to its renowned “Of Art and Wine” exhibition series with the captivating showcase, “Balade” with Artist Stella Rojas. Showcasing Stella Rojas’ extraordinary talent, this collection comprises 33 exquisite artworks that beautifully capture her immersive journeys across Paris, its outskirts, and the picturesque French countryside. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Rojas’ artistic expression at Conrad Manila’s 32nd installment of the esteemed “Of Art and Wine” series.
“Balade is a French word that means to stroll, to wander, and to travel. We invite our guests to visit the hotel’s art gallery and appreciate these impressive creations, which will transport them to the charming alleys of Paris. We are also honored to have our final exhibit this 2024 with Ms. Rojas, who truly embodies impeccable Filipino artistry,” says Fabio Berto, general manager of Conrad Manila.
“Balade” is a captivating collection of artwork that brings to life stunning destinations from across the globe, as seen through the eyes of a Filipina artist. The collection beautifully captures the enchanting allure of France while also offering a glimpse into the diverse landscapes of other European countries, including Italy, Ireland, Norway, and Poland. The series also showcases striking paintings of male and female statues, large-scale close-ups of flora and fauna, as well as sweeping landscapes, all portrayed with the artist’s unique perspective and style.
Rojas with her artwork.
Through her paintings, Rojas invites viewers to see life as a boundless voyage of discovery and adventure. She encourages exploring the unfamiliar by stepping beyond the comfort of one’s homeland and immersing oneself in new experiences. In the process, one can learn about other cultures, embark on a journey of self-discovery, expand one’s mind, and enrich the soul.
“Since I set foot in Paris in 1989, I not only found the City of Lights cold and gorgeous but also electrically charged with the creative energy of the great men and women of the past who have walked its cobbled streets. One distinct quality to note is, although the theme of ‘Balade’ is Parisian, French, and European scenery, the palette is ‘un-European.’ It is, in fact, more Filipino due to the vivid, pure, and intense colors,” Stella Rojas passionately shared.
SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation President Elizabeth Sy, together with featured artist Stella Rojas, Guest of Honor Alice Reyes, Exhibit Curator Nestor Jardin, and Conrad Manila’s General Manager Fabio Berto graced the exhibit launch and spearheaded the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which marked its official opening.
Stella Rojas is a Filipino painter born in Manila on January 19, 1963. Her interest in painting began at the early age of five. In high school at St. Scholastica’s College, she participated in art competitions and received a certificate of merit in the field of fine arts. Rojas graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts, Major in Painting, from the University of the Philippines, Diliman, in 1986.
Rojas’ first solo exhibit was in 1988 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, where she was a Project Awardee of the Contemporary Art Museum of the Philippines. She presented an 8-panel mural in oil on canvas totaling 12 feet x 48 feet entitled “The Bathers.” Since then, she has had yearly (sometimes more often) one-woman shows. To date, Rojas has mounted a total of 46 solo exhibits and countless group shows here and in Paris.
The exhibit featuring the works of Stella Rojas will be open from October 22 to January 04, 2025, at Conrad Manila’s Gallery C. Each artwork is also available for purchase. To learn more about Conrad Manila’s art collection, along with the exclusive privileges and personalized experiences for a luxury stay, visit www.conradmanila.com or call +632 8833 9999.
Klaypel has been in the business of bringing art into every home and touching lives through creativity. For two decades it has carried the symbol of a butterfly, whose wings embody beautiful, delicate colors representing the joy of creativity and the transformative power of art.
This 2024, there is a shift in the spirit. Fueled by the love for all things colorful, Klaypel has crossed the demarcation line between the old and the new—bearing an undeniable boldness and a heightened compassion for the individual.
The new Klaypel finds its kinship in the unlikely zebra. This evolution represents an extensive process of metamorphosis and a collaborative exchange of power between two generations, rooted in complete abandon to a God-given mission. The bold stripes of a zebra not only symbolize an unmatched uniqueness but a renewed sense of power that can only be found when an individual looks within. Like fingerprints, the stripes of one zebra are entirely different from any another, almost mimicking the mark of a Creator’s hands upon nature. Its playful energy echoes throughout its habitat and Klaypel takes this cue to strengthen its commitment to fun and harmony in all its endeavors.
This shift aligns with Klaypel’s dedication to empowering individuals through creativity, building strong communities, and promoting sustainable products and livelihoods. This brand transition will be implemented gradually, ensuring continuity for existing customers while showcasing the evolution of Klaypel. The zebra’s strong association with individuality and strength solidifies the Klaypel brand positioning creating an inclusive environment where all are welcome, flaws and all. The future for Klaypel and its stakeholders, centered on sustainable practices and community development, lies bright and dazzling within in the bold stripes of the zebra.
The 14th Likhang Habi Market Fair gathers the country’s best weavers and artisans, bringing traditions to the next generation.
HABI: The Philippine Textile Council is gearing up for this year’s Likhang Habi Market Fair, happening at the Glorietta Activity Center from October 18 to 20, 2024.
This is the 14th time HABI is organizing the event, as part of its mission to preserve, promote, and enhance Philippine textiles through education, communication, and research, using public and private resources.
HABI was established in 2009. “We started it because we realized that there was no textile society in the Philippines,” said HABI founder and chairman emeritus Maria Isabel “Maribel” Ongpin. “The preservation, development and modernization of our Philippine textiles, which are quite varied, quite unique and very colorful, from all over the archipelago.”
HABI organizers and exhibitors during the media launch at Discovery Primea Hotel in Makati.
Likhang Habi Market Fair was their first project and it has grown so much over the years—from featuring 12 vendors to over a hundred in its recent editions. This year’s fair gathers weavers, artisans, designers and brands from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao—Cordillera, Zamboanga, Ilocos, Socksargen, Negros, Bangsamoro and more.
HABI secretary Rambie Katrina Lim said, “We realized that many of the weavers and crafters are actually quite isolated, so they need a platform to grow and show their product and tell their story. The market fair is a chance for them to interact with a bigger market.”
There are many Likhang Habi Market Fair success stories—artisans who grow from the grassroots to greatness. The passionate women of HABI find joy in witnessing that growth.
“We have a lot of examples of that, like Carlo Eliserio and Raquel Eliserio. Now he’s being invited to and attending international conventions and fairs as well. And he also has a place in a department store now, in Rustan’s. There’s a progression. We really invest and watch our vendors grow,” said HABI president Mia Villanueva, who started her relationship with HABI as a vendor—her bags and accessories brand MCV Designs participates in Likhang Habi Market Fair.
Adelaida Lim, HABI president emeritus said, “We have seen many weavers develop into competent entrepreneurs while improving their craft skills.”
But it’s just one part of what they do.
They’ve published four books on Philippine fabrics and produced three documentaries. They hold the annual Lourdes Montinola Piña Weaving; and the Eloisa Hizon-Gomez Abaca Weaving competitions. They teach and give lectures, connect and collaborate with other organizations here and abroad, and educate about and advocate for Philippine textiles and the people behind them.
The people of HABI “envision a strong Philippine Textile Culture that is vibrant, diverse and very much a part of our modern present” and their work has helped turn that vision into reality.
Thanks to HABI’s efforts, traditional textiles are no longer viewed as just material for native costumes, they’ve become part of daily life, “as contemporary attire with a relevant place in current lifestyles,” Adelaida said.
Another indicator of their success is the growing interest in weaving and Philippine textiles among young people. For a long time, there was concern that weaving was a dying art, that the next generation wasn’t interested in continuing what those before them had started.
One young weaver, LoveLove Monon, granddaughter of Manlilikha ng Bayan Salinta Monon, is featured in HABI’s “Threaded Traditions” documentary “Memoirs of a Textile: Inabal of the Bagobo-Tagabawa.”
Wanting to push for innovation, HABI also decided to create a category in their Piña Weaving Competition for weavers under 30 years old. The year’s Likhang Habi Market Fair theme, “Earth To Loom: Celebrating Natural Dyes in Philippine Textiles,” is something that also speaks to the younger generation, a generation known for their concern about climate change and passion for sustainability.
Maybe it’s the new generation who will make a difference. And HABI is here to help them make it happen.
Visit www.habiphilippinetextilecouncil.com and find HABI: The Philippine Textile Council on Facebook and Instagram (@HABICouncil).
The Cultural Center of the Philippines in partnership with the BenCab Museum launches two new exhibitions: Visions on Paper and Chronicles in Ink: Philippine Printmaking through the Decades, opening at the BenCab Museum’s Sepia Gallery and Gallery Indigo, respectively, on view until September 2024.
Both traveling exhibitions aim to showcase significant works of Filipino visual artists from the CCP 21st Century Art Museum (21AM) Collection. This exhibition program, organized by the CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division with support from the BenCab Museum, is a continuation of the CCP’s ongoing pursuit of making the collection accessible to a wider audience while the CCP Main Theater Building is undergoing rehabilitation.
Nena in Paris by Benedicto Cabrera.
Visions on Paper, exhibited at the BenCab Museum’s Sepia Gallery, presents selected works by National Artists of the Philippines. Exploring quieter forms of abstraction, portraiture, and even rhythmic composition, the exhibition aims to highlight the artist’s creative process through works on paper. Sketches reveal thoughts and ideas transferred onto paper, looking into the artist’s inner worlds with works such as a self-portrait by National Artist for Visual Art BenCab, as well as National Artist for Literature Amado Hernandez’s words inscribed on National Artist for Theater and Music Atang de la Rama’s wooden fan.
In the BenCab Museum’s Gallery Indigo, the exhibition Chronicles in Ink: Philippine Printmaking through the Decades presents a sampling of the art of contemporary printmaking in the Philippines. With works spanning from the 1950s to the 2010s, the exhibition visualizes the range of artistic expressions and practices of generations of Filipino artists that have made significant contributions to Philippine printmaking.
The participating artists are National Artists Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera, Felipe de Leon, Atang dela Rama, Victorio Edades, Amado Hernandez, Jose Joya, Arturo Luz, H.R. Ocampo, and Guillermo Tolentino.
Untitled by Arturo Luz
Works of various artists are also showcased namely Jose Garcia Villa, Joseph Abando. Ambie Abaño, Raymundo Albano, Ivi Avellana-Cosio, Virgilio Aviado, Santiago Bose, Mars Bugaoan, Benjie Cabangis, Benjamin Torrado Cabrera, Jandy Carvajal, Florencio B. Concepcion, Evelyn David, Cian Dayrit, Fil Delacruz, Noell El Farol, Imelda Cajipe Endaya, Josefina Escudero, Brenda Fajardo, Lynden Garcia , Ofelia Gelvezon-Tequi, Bernadette Gular-Becares, Ojeng Jocano, Flora Mauleon, Omar Noble, Romulo Olazo, Nonon Padilla , Rod. Paras-Perez, Rhoda Recto, Cenon Rivera, Manuel Rodriguez, Sr., Marcelino Rodriguez, Rodolfo Samonte, Danny Sola, Manuel Soriano, Des Tenorio, and Efren Zaragoza.
Aside from the exhibitions, CCP and BenCab Museum will be hosting public programs such as guided tours and printmaking workshops organized in partnership with the Association of Pinoyprintmakers. These public programs aim to familiarize the general public with different forms of artmaking while broadening their appreciation for Philippine art and culture.
Both exhibitions opened last August 3, 2024 (Saturday), 4PM at the BenCab Museum. Visions on Paper at Sepia Gallery runs until September 1, 2024, while Chronicles in Ink: Philippine Printmaking through the Decades at Gallery Indigo runs until September 29, 2024.
To get the latest updates on the exhibitions Visions on Paper and Chronicles in Ink: Philippine Printmaking through the Decades, follow the official CCP Visual Arts and Museum Division (CCP VAMD) and BenCab Museum social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.
ManilART, the country’s national art fair, returns this year with the theme “Prisms & Mosaics,” highlighting the multifaceted nature of contemporary Filipino art. Set to run from October 9-13, 2024, at the SMX Aura Convention Center, this year’s event is a dynamic celebration of diversity, complexity, and interconnectedness in artistic expression. This theme aligns with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)’s 2024 Museums and Galleries Month theme, “Ani ng Sining, Bayang Malikhain” (Art’s Harvest, A Creative Nation), which emphasizes that the abundant harvest of Filipino creativity stems from the nation’s collective imagination.
Exploring Multiple Perspectives and Collective Visions
As a prism refracts a beam of light into different wavelengths and spectra of colors, contemporary Filipino art encompasses a breadth of perspectives, techniques, and stories. Artists draw from a wellspring of inspiration: from history and traditional folklore to global trends and emerging schools of thought. While each facet retains its unique qualities, collaboration is crucial, connecting and enhancing each artist’s contribution and enriching the overall picture. Much like a mosaic, where distinct pieces form a cohesive image, art fairs and the Philippine arts and cultural scene unite individual talents into a collective celebration of artistic expression — in this unity, the whole becomes greater than the sum of its parts. This emphasis on collaboration reflects the Filipino spirit, known for its bayanihan, where collectivism is deeply rooted in our cultural heritage.
Myriad Expressions and Creativity in the Time of AI
This year’s roster explodes with diverse offerings that interpret the theme in both figurative and literal ways. Among the anticipated exhibits is the showcase and biographical book launch of glass master Ramon Orlina. The three-dimensional lineup includes works in glass and crystal by powerhouse Marge Organo, oversized iridescent wall-bound metalworks by Ombok Villanueva, woven wood functional art by Agi Pagkatipunan, giant brass insects and birds by Jik Villanueva, and filigreed translucent ostrich egg carvings by ManilART Head Curator Danny Rayos del Sol. Two-dimensional works include masterworks by Romulo Galicano, surreal figurative semi-murals by Darby Alcoseba, works of cultural iconography by Adeste Deguilmo, ethereal whimsical expressionism by Joe Marie Sanclaria, and bold impastos and cutting-edge glasswork by the all-female power trio of Anna Orlina, Bea Policarpio, and Abby Añover.
A special multimedia exhibit entitled “Plugged Into Fernalia— Art in the Age of AI” will juxtapose AI-generated works alongside human-made art given a set of specially-curated prompts and seeks to explore the complex interplay of technology and human creativity. Gromyko Semper assembles a roster of local and international artists to participate in this ambitious project. The lineup includes Noel Sadicon, Joshua Palisoc, Pen Medina, Isobel Francisco, Jonathan Benitez, Maria Magdamit, Judeo Herrera, Gilbert Semillano, Cheryl Hironaka, Glenn Martinez, Ali Alejandro, Roman Padilla, Angelo Padilla, Paul Benjamin Hilario, Jopeter Arias, Hermino Tan, John Melvin Garcia, Joyce Pertez, Rem Kulas, AJ Pascua, Jascha Tolentino, Vince Balandra, Raeun Ramos, James Koehnline, Christian Townsend, and Peter Gric.
Museums and Galleries Month partners and satellites
The five-day fair is co-presented by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts and ManilART Foundation, and banners Museums and Galleries Month in October, and coincides with satellite shows around the country.
ManilART’24 is supported by partners Museo Orlina, The City of Taguig, SM Supermalls, SMX Convention Center, Ladder Events Production, Vision Prime Media, Future Studios, Design Phoundry, Ticketbooth.ph, Via Mare Catering, Pure Foods Deli, BDO, MOD Coffee, Grentek Solutions, Marco Polo Ortigas, Art Caravan, and Sebastiao Cocktails. Media partners include ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC), The Philippine Star, Inquirer.net, Metro, Inquirer Pop!, The Manila Times, Manila Bulletin, Preen.ph, Business Mirror, Peoples Journal, WhenInManila.com, Scout, Pilipino Mirror, Nolisoli.ph, Klik.ph, Cebu Daily News, Experience Travel & Living, Hue TVEverywhere, Malaya Business Insight, Manila Standard, and Alike.
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ManilART’24 tickets are available at Ticketbooth.ph. For group tours and school groups, email manilartsecretariat@gmail.com. For more details and the official activities calendar, follow our social media pages at ManilART on Facebook and @manilartfair on Instagram or visit www.manilartfair.com.
The Philippines lost many of its beloved filmmamers, actors, production crew, and cinematic champions in recent years. In its 20th year, the Cinemalaya pays tribute to Filipino film stalwarts who helped shape the landscape of Philippine cinema industry through the decades.
This year, Cinemalaya Tributes puts the spotlight on director Armando Lao, actress Jaclyn Jose, National Artist Fernando Poe Jr. and fim curator-archivist Teddy Co.
These individuals have accomplished many greats and made extensive impact during their lifetime, served as inspirations to new breed of filmmakers, and initiated conversations on truthful storytelling through their works.
An awarded and revered Filipino screenwriter, Lao wrote remarkable films such as Takaw-Tukso, Itanong mo sa Buwan, and Oras-Oras, Araw Araw. Beyond his screenwriting career, he founded the “found story” school of filmmaking over 40 years ago.
Jose was one of the most respected film actresses of the Philippines during her time. She made a name for herself and became the first Filipino actress to win the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival for her portrayal in Ma’Rosa.
Known as “Da King” in the industry, Poe Jr. was not only an actor but also a writer, director and producer. He made approximately 300 movies in his 48-year career. He was known for his films such as Only the Brave Know Hell, Santiago!, and Adesillo.
A curator and archivist, Co worked hard in preserving the PH’s artistic heritage through film preservation and archiving. He also founded Cinema Rehiyon, one of the flagship projects of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) aims to highlight and mainstream regional filmmaking.
Join Cinemalaya 20 to honor these individuals with special screenings of their works.
To pay tribute to Lao and Jose, Brilliante Mendoza’s Ma’Rosa will be screened on August 8 at 8:30pm, at Ayala Malls Manila Bay Cinema 2. The film is about a well-liked small convenience store owner in a poor neighborhood of Manila and her struggles leading her resort in selling drugs.
Celso Ad Castillo’s Asedillo, a biopic first shown back in 1971, is a tribute film to Fernando Poe Jr. This film showcases the story of Teodoro Asedillo, the terror of Sierra Madre. Set in San Antonio, San Pedro, Laguna, Asedillo is an idealistic school teacher who became a revolutionary leader against the American Commonwealth government. Catch the film on August 9, 1pm, at the Metropolitan Theater.
Tribute to Co centers on short films, which he championed throughout his career. A selection of Cinemalaya short films – City of Flowers by Xeph Suarez, Duwa-Duwa by Nena Jane Achacoso, Mga Hundas Nga Nasulat Sa Baras by Richard Jeroui Salvadico and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay, See You George by Mark Moneda, and Si Oddie by Maria Kydylee Torato – will return to the big screen on August 7, 1pm, at Metropolitan Theater.
A story about a couple’s attempt to survive the dip in their flower farm business, City of Flowers by Xeph Suarez and Alemberg Ang is a story about how this couple tries to push through their struggles for the birth of their first-born child. Set in Zamboanga City during the Feast of the Nativity of Mary, the couple was given an opportunity to solve all their problems that were too good to pass up.
Nena Jane Achacoso’s Duwa-duwa is a film about a runaway daughter who comes home for anything but reuniting with her mother. Because of her need for money to support an operation, the daughter comes back home to steal from her mother.
Set in the time of the COVID Pandemic, Mga Hundas nga Nasulat sa Baras is a story about three boys who became teachers to their parents. This film by Arlie Sweet Sumagasaysay and Richard Jeroui Salvadico depicts how parents become teachers to their children, and how children become teachers to their parents as well.
See you, George by Mark Moneda is a film about a group of hospital workers who take a trip down memory lane. Because they wanted to commemorate the life of one of their colleagues who died, they gathered together to celebrate their memories but it turned dark and haunting.
To make ends meet with his mother’s medical needs, the fictional story of this delivery rider is shown in Maria Kydylee Torato’s Si Oddie. Since we are living in an add-to-cart era, Torato’s film shows the audiences the important role of delivery riders in our lives.
This year’s Cinemalaya will run from August 2 to 11 at Ayala Malls by the Bay.
For more information, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya Facebook pages and other social media accounts on X, Instagram, and TikTok.
As demand for community-based platforms increase, Toki has been able to establish itself as the first and leading social commerce platform for collectibles in the Philippines. A platform “for collectors, by collectors,” Toki was built to address the pain points of every collector, redefining the marketplace by offering safe and secure features to transact and interact with community members.
Since it launched in November 2023, Toki has onboarded 70,000 users, authenticated over 100,000 items (including more than 35,000 sneakers), and hosted more than 500 auctions.
“We are thrilled with the overwhelming response from the collector community,” said Frederic Levy, Toki’s CEO and Co-founder. “Our goal has always been to create a trusted and engaging platform where collectors can connect, transact, and share their passion. The rapid growth and positive feedback we’ve received reaffirm our commitment to continuously improve and expand our offerings to meet the evolving needs of our users.”
Ensuring authenticity in the collectors’ buying journey has been Toki’s core mission. By implementing rigorous screening for sellers and a stringent verification process for every item sold, Toki guarantees the security of each transaction. This unwavering dedication aims to foster user confidence and uphold the digital marketplace’s credibility, allowing collectors to buy and sell with complete peace of mind.
“As collectors, it’s crucial for us to have confidence in the sellers we engage with on the platform,” emphasized Zoe Ocampo, Toki’s Co-founder and Chief Product Officer. “As we onboard new sellers, we prioritize expanding into new categories where our trusted sellers can immediately begin listing their unique offerings. This approach not only enriches our community’s experience but also ensures we maintain the highest standards of quality and authenticity.”
In a recent gathering with media, Toki’s founders – Frederic Levy, Zoe Ocampo, and Jules Jurado – who are former GCash executives and avid collectors themselves, also revealed its plans to eventually complement its digital proposition with retail locations, providing a full O2O (online-to-offline) experience for users.
Building on its strong foundation, the move towards an O2O integration aims to allow collectors to engage with the platform holistically, bridging the gap between online convenience and the thrill of in-person discovery.
“Beyond revolutionizing the collectors’ journey, Toki is carving a path where each item tells a story, and every transaction fosters a deeper connection within our vibrant community,” concluded Levy. “Our journey from being digital-first to blending physical presence marks the next chapter in redefining how collectors can enjoy their passion, both online and offline.”
Falling in love with music wasn’t a watershed moment for 24-year-old violin prodigy Adrian Ong. His affection for the art gradually blossomed after watching a televised violin performance when he was four years old. Immediately enamored, Ong’s journey began simply: he requested violin lessons as a hobby.
“I tried swimming and taekwondo when we couldn’t find a teacher for me. By the time we found one through a family friend, I was already 9 years old,” Ong recalled. Thankfully, his parents, Jeanne, and Alan Ong, supported his childhood dream, despite leaning towards dentistry.
A steadfast scholar
Ong’s love for the art of music grew stronger after becoming a scholar at the Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA) in Makiling. Later, he graduated with honors from the Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan under another scholarship. Ong also received a merit-based scholarship from the Mannes School of Music, where he graduated with honors.
Under mentors Mellissa Geronimo Esguerra, Gina Medina-Perez, Paul Sonner, Lewis Kaplan, and Yibin Li, Ong furthered his studies. He also attended masterclasses with master musicians Ilya Kaler, Almita Vamos, Charles Castleman, Philippe Quint, and Thanos Adamopoulos. Besides polishing his musical instinct over the years, Ong learned to fall in love with every piece he played: “Whatever I’m playing is my favorite. Currently, I’m practicing a waltz composed by Eugène Ysaÿe, so it’s now one of my favorites.”
The intended emotions of the composer make the melodies memorable for Ong. He added, “I take note of the emotions, even the humor or the campiness of the song.”
Because of the emotions behind the compositions, music inevitably transforms people. Ong always adored how music is an invisible art form that brings people together. “It’s based on feelings and what you can express through sound,” he lamented. Through playing the violin, he witnesses stories as told by composers.
“It’s interesting how I can peek into the composer’s life. I also imagine colors as I’m playing because of the story behind the song,” Ong shared. Partaking in every composition’s story, Ong would see colors or moods, depending on the sound he played. Music is heard by the ear, but somehow every harmony opens his eyes.
Debut with PPO
Having his orchestral debut with the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) at the age of 17, Ong plowed through performance after performance. In May 2023, he played at Carnegie Hall in New York, achieving what seemed to be every classical musician’s dream. “I had my own show. It was very fulfilling,” he expressed. He even played alongside Filipino-American world-renowned pianist Victor Asunción, making the performance all the more meaningful.
Grateful was an understatement as to how Ong felt. He also found the experience insightful, solidifying Carnegie Hall as the highlight of his career after being declared one of the scholars of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ International Scholarship Program. “It’s really very inspiring to play, especially with this generation as your audience,” expressed Ong.
Ong’s Carnegie Hall Recital Debut 2023.
After performing with fellow CCP scholars Aidan Baracol and Mark Rocas at the Young People’s Concert in 2023, Ong looked forward to the future of classical music in the Philippines. He found it easy to connect with the concert-goers, disproving the age-old misconception that classical music is too complex for young audiences.
Ong elaborated, “It’s easy to understand as long as you’re willing to listen. You just have to keep an open mind.”
Learning beyond the violin
As part of the CCP’s International Scholarship Program, which provides financial support for academic and artistic learners who have achieved excellence in their respective art forms, Ong decided to make the most out of the opportunity. He would watch concerts and attend masterclasses for other instruments.
For Ong, the scholarship opened more avenues for him to learn beyond the violin. “Each instrument requires a different view of music-making. Different instruments have different philosophies behind them,” he explained.
Slowly building a name for himself internationally, Ong wanted to prioritize his homeland first. He attended Helping Through Music: A Benefit Concert for Childhope PH and Museo Pambata in 2023, where an instrument petting zoo was held.
Ong recalled feeling indescribable joy upon seeing children express interest in the violin: “I want to share what I learned here in the Philippines, with its next generation,” he declared. Following through on this promise, he began coaching and collaborating with the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra, alongside Herrick Ortiz.
But Ong never really expected to get into PHSA, where his love for music finally influenced his career path. By the time he received the news, he was already enrolled in another university. Still, he followed his heart and immediately transferred. Playing the violin may have started as a hobby for Ong, but with each performance sharpening his distinct sound, his journey as a violinist became clearer.
“I think this is what I’ll be doing for the rest of my life,” Ong said, smiling with fond certainty.
