Van Vianen Artspace is proud to announce that 12 extraordinary artists under its wing will showcase their masterpieces at Art Capital, Grand Palais in Paris, France, from February 18 to 22, 2025. This prestigious international stage will once again witness the brilliance of Filipino artistry, following in the footsteps of Marites Van Vianen, whose groundbreaking achievements have brought immense pride to the Philippines. Each artist has been meticulously selected for their exceptional talent, innovative techniques, and unique perspectives that celebrate both individuality and cultural heritage. Their participation underscores the unparalleled creativity and passion of Filipino artists, placing them at the forefront of the global art scene. Through this significant milestone, Van Vianen Artspace continues its mission of uplifting Filipino artists, giving them the opportunity to shine on the world stage and inspire a new generation of creatives. These artists will not only showcase their remarkable works but also carry the pride of the Philippines, proving once again that Filipino artistry knows no bounds. Stay tuned as these 12 visionaries bring the heart of Filipino art to Paris!    

By Zaldy Comanda BAGUIO CITY – Twenty-four cultural dancers of the Cordillera showcased their rich culture and rhythmic artistry dance dubbed Rhythm of the Highlands as one of the signature highlights of the 29th Panagbenga Festival at the Melvin Football ground, Burnham Park, Baguio City, onFebruary 15. With the theme “Blossoms Beyond Boundaries,” the sound of gongs echoed as dances of various cultures and traditions were showcased to show the public the importance of the Cordillera tradition. Rhythm of the Highlands is a traditional event of the Panagbenga Festival, which empowers the rich culture of the Cordillera. The participants include SLSPI IP Socio-Cultural Dance Troupe, Binnadang Irisan Cultural Performing Group (BICPG/CCDG), Inubuan Cultural Performing Group, Tawid and Salig Cultural Dance Group, Gannay x SLSAH Dance Troupe, Kontad, Dang Dang-ay Cultural Performing Group, Iyaman Cultural Performing Group, Uschong Cultural Ensemble, SJDS Chuwe Me Cultural Dance Group. Litagwa Cultural Performing Group, Salibi Performing Group of Easter College, Ragsak Cultural Performing Group, Yaman di Gangsa (YDG) Performing Group, Bimaak Cultural Dance Troupe, Saeng Ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble, Dragon Treasure Cultural Performing Group, Gawis Culture and Arts Ensembles Company, Sakusak Musical Ensemble, e-Baguio Indigenous Cultural and the Arts Society Performing Group (e-BICAS Performing Group), Uggayam Cultural Performing Group, Dagdagup Cultural Dance Group (DDCD JSNHS Cultural Performing Group and Gasat Cultural Dance Group). After their presentations, Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Chairman For Life Atty. Mauricio Domogan announced the champion as Bimaak Cultural Dance Troupe, which received 98% from the judges. Saeng Ya Kasay was the 1st Runner-up — 96% and 2nd Runner-up Iyaman Cultural Performance Group – 93.33%. Bimaak Cultural Dance Troupe was also awarded the Special Award for Choreography and Saeng Ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble was awarded the Special Award for Attire and Props. Awardees will receive P100,000, P70,000, and P50,000 respectively. All other groups that participated will receive P40,000 each, except for one group that did not meet the minimum number of participants. According to the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. (BFFFI), the winner and selected cultural performance group will be included in the grand street dancing parade on February 22.          

A Celebration of Cordilleran Culture Through Mosaic Art Baguio City – The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit brings to life the rich cultural landscapes of the Cordilleras showcasing the vibrant traditions of the region through intricate mosaic artistry. This extraordinary exhibit features the works of three talented artists—Kabunyan de Guia, Guiller Lagac, and Oliver Olivete—collectively known as The Mighty Bhutens. Inspired by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, their approach to art is spontaneous, playful, and deeply rooted in local heritage. One of the exhibit’s standout pieces is a dynamic lightning bolt, expertly crafted from brilliant yellow and blue tile fragments. This work honors Baguio photographer and artist Kidlat de Guia, who passed away in Madrid, Spain. Titled “Kidlat Ngayon!!!! Isang taon na paglalakbay as soul,” the installation transforms the lightning bolt into a shrine where visitors can light candles in memory of the artist. The jester figure embodies the spirit of the Mighty Bhutens—playful, tongue-in-cheek, and whimsical—a quality that shines through in all their creations. Facing the jester is a cloud and lightning sculpture, symbolizing Tatay Kidlat and his “inner dwende” philosophy, which forms a central pillar of the Mighty Bhutens’ creative ideology. Another compelling work is a mixed-media mosaic portrait that blends textured paint on wood with fragments of patterned fabric and colored ceramic tiles. The use of layered textures adds depth and complexity, highlighting their symbolism and the artists’ creative approach. The Mighty Bhutens Art Exhibit is more than just a visual feast—it is an invitation to explore art beyond conventional boundaries. The artists encourage viewers to interpret their works in their own way, making the exhibit an interactive and personal experience. As the artists themselves put it, “Mosaic is about self-interpretation—the art exhibit is the experience itself.” The exhibit runs until February 15, 2025 at SM City Baguio Atrium. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind celebration of Cordilleran culture and creativity!

This holiday season, SM mallgoers achieved something truly remarkable—donating 50,000 SM Bears of Joy to children in underserved communities. In partnership with Toy Kingdom, this milestone was part of a record-breaking campaign where 100,000 bears were sold, made possible by the collective generosity of mallgoers who came together to make the season brighter for those in need. An annual initiative of SM Cares, the SM Bears of Joy campaign empowers shoppers to spread holiday cheer by purchasing a pair of specially designed plush bears—one to keep and another to share. This year’s theme, “Hug-a-Mood,” introduced four charming bears: Mikah, the curious explorer; Ash, the gentle and shy friend; Bree, the spirited adventurer; and Ronnie, the creative dreamer. Each bear brought its own personality, symbolizing the warmth and joy of the season Beyond the numbers, the true impact lies in the ripples of care created by this campaign. Each donated bear represents the kindness and generosity of a community united in its commitment to giving back. These simple acts of giving spread not only joy but also hope, showing that small gestures can create meaningful change across communities. This initiative also reminds us that the holidays are a time to create special memories, especially for children who may not always feel the season’s merriness. Through the unwavering compassion of SM shoppers, the Bears of Joy initiative delivered smiles, warmth, and a powerful message of love to children nationwide. SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, supporting initiatives focused on communities and the environment. Its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Persons with Disabilities, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.      

Louisians from all over the world will once again excitedly reconnect, relive cherished moments with former classmates and schoolmates, and honor the legacy of excellence that binds them together wherever they are. The SLU Rambakan 2025 Grand Alumni Homecoming will happen on January 18, Saturday, in Baguio City, promising to be another unforgettable event that will showcase the Louisian spirit. All activities will revolve around the theme “Celebrating the Tapestry of Triumphs of the Louisian Alumni.” It is the third Rambakan homecoming since 2023. All SLU graduates from the elementary, high school, college and post-graduate levels are invited to attend and participate in SLU Rambakan 2025. Rambakan 2025 kicks off with morning activities to be held at the SLU Bonifacio main campus consisting of a Thanksgiving Mass at the Saint Aloysius Gonzaga Parish Church at 8:00a.m. After the mass, everyone is invited to participate in fun activities at the Fr. Paul Van Parijs Event Center until 2:00p.m. It will start with a 15-minute dance exercise followed by games led by the School of Medicine. There will be a school trade fair where delicious food and other items will be for sale in booths manned by the school organizations. Blu Coffee distributors will serve free coffee and drinks. Interested alumni can also go and view the Legacy Wall plates installed beside the Adenauer building. Later at 6:00p.m., the homecoming celebration continues with the Gala Night program spotlighting the recognition of the recipients of the Search for Outstanding Louisian Alumni Awards at the Olive Ballroom of Venus Parkview Hotel. A total of 11 top recipients from various professions will be awarded under five categories, namely: Competence, Creativity, Social Involvement, Christian Spirit, and Theophile Verbist Lifetime Achievement. This is the third year since 2023 that Louisian alumni were nominated and underwent intense screening as SLU’s outstanding alumni. Let’s come together to make Rambakan 2025 homecoming one for the books. It will be festive, a lot of fun, and full of energy! So, mark your calendars and prepare for a day filled with joy, laughter and unbreakable Louisian camaraderie!  

International self-taught artist Myse Salonga was crowned as the Noble Queen of Culture and Arts by the Noble Queen of the Universe Advocacy International Pageant during its 6th Edition Crowning and Awarding Ceremony held at the Cities Events Place, Sgt Esquerra St., Quezon City, Manila on December 8. This is one of the historic awards that Salonga will receive, after she began painting as a hobby and participating in charitable art exhibits, not only in the Philippines but also in various parts of the world. The event is sponsored by Noble Queen Universe Ltd , Inc ( NQULI) headed by Ms. Eren Noche, whose goal is to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to society and to hold charitable events to raise funds for charitable institutions. This charity event is in partnership with the Doc Rob Foundation led by Rob Walchern (Doc Rob) and Ms. Patricia Javier,chairman of the Board of NQULI. On December 4, Salonga was featured in the Aura Charity Gala Fashion Show, where she was joined by Noble Queen International Patricia Javier; Gladys Reyes-Sommereux; Cieolo Ortega-Reboredo, Okada vice president for sales and marketing and Krishan Pauline Allere, Miss Pearl of the Orient. Salonga was listed as a model in the Aura Charity Fashion Show sponsored by the brilliant creative designers of the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines (FDAP) and Aura Group of Companies led by CEO Aura Marketing Bennilyn Amigo-Molina, held at the Okada Hotel. Salonga did not end up participating in the fashion show for the first time, but she was awarded as the 2024 Darling of the Crowd. Salonga was also honored with the 2024 Global Iconic Aces Award as World Renowned Artistic Trailblazer, after the Aura Gala Show at the Okada Hotel, on December 4. In recognition of her contributions to the arts, Salonga was honored with the ASEAN Excellence Achievers Award as an International Artist. “It is a great honor for me to know that this is a reward for my advocacy work in charity art exhibitions. I am deeply grateful to the people behind this honor and to the upcoming award from those who recognize me as an artist,” Salonga said. According to Salonga, a painting of her that was exhibited at the Carousel Du Louvre, Paris in October 2024 will be auctioned, with the proceeds donated to NQULI to help the charitable institution. Myse Salonga, is known as the exclusive creator behind Myseterpiece Art. Her artistic journey, which began in 2010, has evolved from a simple hobby to a vibrant and impactful career, showcasing his talent locally and internationally. Over the past decade, Myse has created over 200 unique paintings, captivating audiences with his diverse and evocative works, such as modern abstract, figurative art, landscape, seascape, and surrealism. Myse’s artwork has garnered attention in prestigious venues around the world. Notably, his pieces have been featured in iconic locations such as 1560 Broadway in Times Square, New York, and eight billboards in London Waterloo Station. She has participated in numerous exhibitions, including his solo showcase titled “A Masterpiece of MYSEterpiece Art” at Camp John Hay, Baguio City, with the Autism Society of Baguio as its beneficiary. In 2024, Myse’s artistic contributions reached new heights with a significant exhibition in France. In June 2024, Salonga donated a historical painting that recognizes the life of an Overseas Filipino Worker in France to the Philippine Embassy of France, which was received by Ambassador Junever Mahilum-West. The painting titled “Marriane” is currently on display at the embassy as part of the historical collection On this occasion, Salonga joined 50 artists from 20 different countries who came together in the exhibition to raise funds for children from the Philippines, Uganda and Tanzania. The beautiful paintings, sculptures, photography, and digital arts were exhibited from May 30 to June 2 in Mayenne, Laval France, in celebration of the 21st edition of “RENDEZVOUS aux JARDINS,” a project of the French Minister of Culture. She has exhibited her work at the “Rendezvous Aux Jardins” at Le Château d’Hauterives à Argentré, participated in the “Salon International d’Art Contemporain” at the renowned Carrousel Du Louvre in Paris, and was featured in the “Business Art Fair 16th Edition” at Espace Nesle, Paris. She was also included in an art exhibit at the Grand Westside Hotel and recently participated in the exhibit titled “Likha: A Journey Beyond Wine, Culinary & Arts” at the Belmont Hotel in Mactan, Cebu. Further demonstrating her community involvement, she participated as one of the judges in the on-the-spot contest “Alwas Lahi”, celebrating the 75th anniversary of her hometown, Padre Garcia, Batangas. In the future, Myse Salonga is scheduled to exhibit at the prestigious Grand Palais in Paris in February 2025, followed by another exhibition in Vienna, Austria in April 2025.  

By Rose Frejane Cruz-Comanda   The renowned self-taught international artist Myse Salonga will be crowned Noble Queen of Culture and Arts 2024 at the 6th Edition Crowning and Awarding Ceremony of the Noble Queen of the Universe Advocacy International Pageant, to be held at the Cities Events Place, Sgt Esquerra St., Quezon City, Manila on December 8. This is one of the historic awards that Salonga will receive, after she began painting as a hobby and participating in charitable art exhibits, not only in the Philippines but also in various parts of the world. The event is sponsored by Noble Queen Universe Ltd , Inc ( NQULI) headed by Ms. Eren Noche, whose goal is to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to society and to hold charitable events to raise funds for charitable institutions. This charity event is in partnership with the Doc Rob Foundation led by Rob Walchern (Doc Rob) and Ms. Patricia Javier, chairman of the Board of NQULI. On December 4, Salonga was featured in the Aura Charity Gala Fashion Show, where she was joined by Noble Queen International Patricia Javier; Gladys Reyes-Sommereux; Cieolo Ortega-Reboredo, Okada vice president for sales and marketing and Krishan Pauline Allere, Miss Pearl of the Orient. Salonga was listed as a model in the Aura Charity Fashion Show sponsored by the brilliant creative designers of the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines (FDAP) and Aura Group of Companies led by CEO Aura Marketing Bennilyn Amigo-Molina, held at the Okada Hotel. Salonga did not end up participating in the fashion show for the first time, but she was awarded as the 2024 Darling of the Crowd. Salonga was also honored with the 2024 Global Iconic Aces Award as World Renowned Artistic Trailblazer, after the Aura Gala Show at the Okada Hotel, on December 4. In recognition of her contributions to the arts, Salonga was honored with the ASEAN Excellence Achievers Award as an International Artist. “It is a great honor for me to know that this is a reward for my advocacy work in charity art exhibitions. I am deeply grateful to the people behind this honor and to the upcoming award from those who recognize me as an artist,” Salonga said. According to Salonga, a painting of hers that was exhibited at the Carousel Du Louvre, Paris in October 2024 will be auctioned, with the proceeds donated to NQULI to help the charitable institution. Myse Salonga, is known as the exclusive creator behind Myseterpiece Art. His artistic journey, which began in 2010, has evolved from a simple hobby to a vibrant and impactful career, showcasing his talent locally and internationally. Over the past decade, Myse has created over 200 unique paintings, captivating audiences with his diverse and evocative works, such as modern abstract, figurative art, landscape, seascape, and surrealism. Myse’s artwork has garnered attention in prestigious venues around the world. Notably, his pieces have been featured in iconic locations such as 1560 Broadway in Times Square, New York, and eight billboards in London Waterloo Station. She has participated in numerous exhibitions, including his solo showcase titled “A Masterpiece of MYSEterpiece Art” at Camp John Hay, Baguio City, with the Autism Society of Baguio as its beneficiary. In 2024, Myse’s artistic contributions reached new heights with a significant exhibition in France. In June 2024, Salonga donated a historical painting that recognizes the life of an Overseas Filipino Worker in France to the Philippine Embassy of France, which was received by Ambassador Junever Mahilum-West. The painting titled “Marriane” is currently on display at the embassy as part of the historical collection On this occasion, Salonga joined 50 artists from 20 different countries who came together in the exhibition to raise funds for children from the Philippines, Uganda and Tanzania. The beautiful paintings, sculptures, photography, and digital arts were exhibited from May 30 to June 2 in Mayenne, Laval France, in celebration of the 21st edition of “RENDEZVOUS aux JARDINS,” a project of the French Minister of Culture. She has exhibited her work at the “Rendezvous Aux Jardins” at Le Château d’Hauterives à Argentré, participated in the “Salon International d’Art Contemporain” at the renowned Carrousel Du Louvre in Paris, and was featured in the “Business Art Fair 16th Edition” at Espace Nesle, Paris. She was also included in an art exhibit at the Grand Westside Hotel and recently participated in the exhibit titled “Likha: A Journey Beyond Wine, Culinary & Arts” at the Belmont Hotel in Mactan, Cebu. Further demonstrating her community involvement, she participated as one of the judges in the on-the-spot contest “Alwas Lahi”, celebrating the 75th anniversary of her hometown, Padre Garcia, Batangas. In the future, Myse Salonga is scheduled to exhibit at the prestigious Grand Palais in Paris in February 2025, followed by another exhibition in Vienna, Austria in April 2025.            

By Rose Frejane Cruz-Comanda Self-Taught Artist Myse Salonga is not only set to become a famous international artist, but also to be included as a fashion model in the Aura Charitable Fashion Show held in Okada, Manila, on December 4. With the theme “Likha”, this exhibition not only showcases her talent but also supports charitable causes, including initiatives for children with autism and the underprivileged. In the first batch of the fashion show, Salonga was joined by Noble Queen International Patricia Javier; Actress Gladys Reyes-Sommereux; Cielo Ortega-Reboredo, Okada vice president for sales and marketing and Krishan Pauline Allere, Miss Pearl of the Orient. The Aura Gala Night was created by the brilliant creative designers of the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines (FDAP) and sponsored by the Aura Group of Companies head by Bennilyn Amigo-Molina. “It is an honor to be among the renowned fashion models and I am very grateful to the organizer and designer for giving me the opportunity as an artist to participate in the fashion show. Being a charitable artist is my advocacy, so this fashion show is timely and also a creative event,” stated Salonga. Salonga, is known as the exclusive creator behind Myseterpiece Art. Her artistic journey, which began in 2010, has evolved from a simple hobby to a vibrant and impactful career, showcasing her talent locally and internationally. Over the past decade, Myse has created over 200 unique paintings, captivating audiences with her diverse and evocative works, such as modern abstract, figurative art, landscape, seascape, and surrealism. Myse’s artworks have garnered attention in prestigious venues around the world. Notably, his pieces have been featured in iconic locations such as 1560 Broadway in Times Square, New York, and eight billboards in London Waterloo Station. She has participated in numerous exhibitions, including his solo showcase titled “A Masterpiece of MYSEterpiece Art” in Baguio City, as well as international exhibitions throughout Asia and Europe. In 2024, Myse’s artistic contributions reached new heights with three significant exhibitions in France. She exhibited his work at the “Rendezvous Aux Jardins” at Le Château d’Hauterives à Argentré, participated in the “Salon International d’Art Contemporain” at the renowned Carrousel Du Louvre in Paris, and exhibited at the “Business Art Fair 16th Edition” at Espace Nesle, Paris. She was also included in an art exhibit at the Grand Westside Hotel and recently participated in the exhibit titled “Likha: A Journey Beyond Wine, Culinary & Arts” at the Belmont Hotel in Mactan, Cebu. In the future, Myse Salonga is scheduled to exhibit at the prestigious Grand Palais in Paris in February 2025, followed by another exhibition in Vienna, Austria in April 2025. In recognition of her contributions to the arts, Salonga was honored with the ASEAN Excellence Achievers Award as an International Artist and will be honored with the Global Iconic Aces Award as a World Renowned Artistic Trailblazer on December 4, 2024, at Okada Manila. Further demonstrating her community involvement, she participated as one of the judges in the on-the-spot contest “Alwas Lahi”, celebrating the 75th anniversary of her hometown, Padre Garcia, Batangas In addition, she will be crowned as the 2024 Noble Queen of Culture and Arts on December 8, 2024, at Cities Events Place. These awards demonstrate her influence and significant impact on the art community, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the global artistic scene. Through her dedication and passion, Salonga has established herself as a leading voice in the art world, inspiring many with her travels and creations, which continue to captivate audiences around the world.