Local artists in Eastern Visayas have the potential to showcase their talents on the national and international stage, if given the chance.
Recently, the city government of Borongan, Eastern Samar gave such artists not only a venue for their artworks but also the skills needed to hone their talents.
In partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry in Eastern Samar, SiRak Arts Group, and the Eastern Samar State University, Borongan City launched DILAAB II 2025, an arts exhibit which featured a collection of artworks from local artists across the province.
The art exhibit was conducted from February 23-28, 2025 at Hamorawon “Tilang” Park, Borongan City line with the celebration of National Arts Month last February
The exhibit showcased paintings of various mediums, resin art souvenirs, and sculptures made by Estehanon creatives, Eastern Samar National Comprehensive High School’s Special Arts Program students, and members of SiRak Arts Group.
Aside from providing a platform for local artists, the exhibit also featured seminars to help them monetize their creative endeavors.
Benjamin Panaguiton Jr. of DTI Eastern Samar, led a talk on “Entrepreneurial mind-setting for creative industry stakeholders,” which aims not only to educate creatives on how they go beyond art as a creative expression but also focus on the business aspect of their work.
It also provided an avenue for new entrepreneurs in the creative industry to showcase their products.
Theresa Catudio Dela Cruz, owner of Bhe’s Handicrafts, was one of the artists invited to showcase their handicrafts during the exhibit.
Dela Cruz makes candles, centerpieces inspired by Borongan’s marine life, acrylic souvenirs, resin crafts, as well as materials for painting activities which she hopes would inspire kids to pursue art.
According to Dela Cruz, initiatives like this allows small business owners like her to market her crafts for free, especially that she is still in her early stage of business endeavors and does not have the resources yet to build a physical store.
“Dako na it ha am nga bulig, kay suga ha ak waray ko ma hit gud sinisiring nga sales everyday kay waray ko man kalugaringon nga pwesto. At least, sugad hin nga may art exhibit, may ko way pag-showcase tak products,” she added.
(This is already a big help for us. Just like me, I’m not making consistent sales everyday because I don’t have a dedicated space. At least, having an art exhibit such as this gives me a platform to showcase my products.)
The event also offered free workshops for artists and arts enthusiasts such as resin souvenir workshops, painting workshops and competitions, art talks, dance workshops, dance challenges, open style battles, and live sketching.
John Godfrey Dala, a local artist and private arts tutor of 10 years, whose work was featured in the exhibit, expressed his gratitude to the local government.
“Tungod hini nga mga higayon, natagan kami hin plataporma nga maipakita it amon talento,” Dala stated.
(Because of these opportunities, we were given a platform to showcase our talents.)
He also encouraged the youth to pursue art and explore various mediums.
(With report from the Philippine Information Agency)
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