NATIONAL Artist for Visual Arts Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera and renowned contemporary artist Mark Justiniani led the launch of Rhapsodies and Recollections, a landmark exhibition at the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (Ilomoca) in Iloilo Business Park (IBP), Iloilo City, on July 11, 2025.
As part of the program, BenCab signed a commemorative plaque that recognizes Megaworld’s long-term commitment to arts and culture. The act affirms a public-private partnership supporting the cultural and creative development of Iloilo City.
Present during the launch were Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas, former Mayor Jerry Treñas, Rosalie Treñas, Ilomoca art patron Edwin Valencia, and Megaworld Museums Director Amado Alvarez. Their attendance underscored strong civic support for advancing Iloilo as a cultural hub in Western Visayas.
“This recognition of Iloilo Business Park as the city’s Center of Arts and Culture is a testament to our efforts in promoting heritage, tourism, and local creativity,” said Treñas. The designation was formalized under Executive Order (EO) 021.
The exhibit features major original sculptures—Reunion by BenCab and Ang Debate by Justiniani—both offering powerful reflections on memory, discourse, and identity. These centerpiece works provide an anchor for the show’s overarching narrative on shared cultural histories and artistic evolution.
Rhapsodies and Recollections also showcases works by an esteemed group of National Artists: Abdulmari Asia Imao, Ang Kiukok, Arturo Luz, Napoleon Abueva, Hernando R. Ocampo, Jose T. Joya, and Vicente Manansala.
The lineup includes modern and contemporary figures such as Joy Mallari, Julie Lluch, Antipas Delotavo, Charlie Co, and various local talents, providing a dynamic representation of Philippine visual arts across generations.
The exhibition is housed at Adoro Gallery on the third floor of Ilomoca and aims to elevate public appreciation for visual arts while connecting Iloilo’s cultural aspirations to the national artistic movement.
Rhapsodies and Recollections is open to the public beginning July 12, 2025.
Treñas, on July 9, 2025, has officially recognized IBP as Iloilo City's Center of Arts and Culture through EO 021, acknowledging its significant role in promoting local heritage, creativity, and cultural development. (Leo Solinap/SunStar Philippines)