29 September 2025 – The Philippine Consulate General in Calgary proudly opened its 3rd quarter “Sining sa Konsulado” art exhibit on 25 September, in celebration of the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANAMo). In collaboration with Salingpusa Creatives, the exhibit titled “Baybayin ng Batangas” spotlighted the vibrant coastal culture and everyday livelihood of communities in the bay areas of Batangas.
“Baybayin ng Batangas” features the works of two Filipina-Canadian artists, Ms. Day Pajarillo and Ms. Kath Beredo, both originally from Batangas, who bring to life through their canvases the intimate relationship between the province’s communities and the sea. Their art captures not only the physical beauty of the Batangas coastline, but also the rhythms, stories, and heritage shaped by generations of Batanguenos who have lived by and with the ocean.
MANA Mo is observed every September to highlight the Philippines’ identity as a maritime and archipelagic nation. With more than 7600 islands, the seas are central to Philippine history, economy, and culture. By anchoring this quarter’s art exhibit to MANA Mo,the Consulate underscores the importance of remembering and celebrating the country’s maritime heritage.
Consul General Emma Sarne in her remarks noted that the exhibit is a reflection of how Filipino artists abroad continue to engage with their homeland: “Through Baybayin ng Batangas,” we are reminded that our seas connect us more that divide us, they shape our identity, inspire creativity, and unite our people, whether in Batangas or here in Calgary.” She further wished the guests to see the Philippines “not just as a country of islands on a map, but as a nation whose hearts beat in rhythm with the sea and hopes to inspire everyone to care for our coasts, protect our seas, and honor the people who call it home.”
The opening program also featured a poetry reading by Calgary-based writer Renato Gandia, who shared his poetic image of a maritime Batangas, giving voice to his memories and emotions tied to the province’s shores. Mr. Gandia also donated a copy of “Magdaragat” an anthology of 43 Filipino-Canadian writers. The title “Magdaragat” is symbolic of the “seafaring” nature of the Filipino diaspora who venture out for both adventure and a better life for their families.
The Consulate acknowledges its continuing partnership with Salingpusa Creatives, which has co-presented the Sining sa Konsulado series of quarterly art exhibits. Now on its third installment, the program has become a platform for showcasing the works of Filipino-Canadian artists to the wider Alberta community.
The exhibit was attended by members of the Filipino community and friends of the Consulate, who reflected on the artworks and shared their own memories of coastal life in the Philippines. END
