Words and images Art Lounge Manila (Alab ng Puso)
Editing The Kanto team
“The core mission of ‘Alab ng Puso’ is to transform political dissent into effective humanitarian aid,” opens Art Lounge Manila, the current host of the Alab ng Puso auction and exhibition. “The unique works by over 50 Filipino artists are direct expressions of rage, frustration, and hope for a better Philippines.”
Artists Roel Obemio, Pete Jimenez, Michael Cacnio, Kublai Millan, Carlo Magno, Gerrico Blanco, Raul Isidro, Anton Del Castillo, Janos Delacruz, Fil Delacruz, Richard Buxani, Agi Pagkatipunan, Glenn Perez, Meneline Wong MD, Iris Babao -Uy, Sam Penaso, Isobel Francisco, Isaiah Cacnio and more form the program’s roster, showcasing poignant deviation from their usual oeuvre.
Mga Aninong Lumulunok sa Liwanag Bantay Salakay sa Lumubog sa Lupa by Jonet Carpio, Drowned Promises by John Lhoyd Escueta, and Ahon by Fil Dela Cruz
The visceral emotion poured onto canvas and shaped into sculpture has successfully transformed into a clear, tangible relief for communities affected by recent natural calamities. Art Lounge Manila shares that the team is currently using a staging area there to deploy relief goods and administer psychological first aid to the communities within the San Remigio, Medillin, and Tabogon evacuation sites.
Even if an artwork sells at its gallery price, the artist and Galerie Francesca will jointly donate 20 percent of the proceeds to the Byrum Faith Foundation. When you bid above the artwork’s gallery price, 100 percent of the excess amount goes directly to the Byrum Faith Foundation for Cebu’s earthquake victims.
“Every purchase made by a patron or art aficionado directly fuels these relief efforts, closing the gap between critique and constructive contribution.”
Ascent to Infinity II by Kublai Millan, Alab ng Puso 1130 by Megs Empinado, Under the Clouds by Jaime Gubaton, and Dolorosa by Wilfredo Offemarie
The unique works—including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces—offer patrons a chance to own a piece of history—a snapshot of a nation’s collective frustration and resilience—while simultaneously performing an act of deep charity.
Alab ng Puso is a collaboration between Galerie Francesca, Art Lounge Manila, and the Bynum Faith Foundation, founded by Fil-Am NFL Player Camryn Bynum. The Bynum Faith Foundation serves as the on-ground arm, ensuring that every peso from the exhibit’s sales directly translates into hope and critical support where it is needed.
Philippine Index: The Rising Cost of Lies and Greed by Glenn Perez, Sa Aming Nayon by Pete Jimenez, and Buaya by JP Tiangco
At its core, Alab ng Puso is a vital, time-sensitive fundraising mechanism. The exhibit proves that art is a powerful catalyst for direct and collective action, channeling frustration over the current political situation into a potent force for good.
“We encourage art lovers and socially conscious citizens to visit, view the powerful collection, and place their bids now to participate in this initiative that turns every stroke of anger into a genuine stroke of relief for those who need it most.” •
Alab ng Puso will run at Art Lounge Manila at The Podium until December 17, 2025. The auction for the artworks will close on Monday, December 15, at 6:00 PM. This exhibition is in partnership with GF Emporium and The Podium.
