The Department of Tourism spearheaded the opening of "Hiraya: A Visual Feast of Filipino Culture", a showcase of 20 watercolor paintings and 15 sculptures at the Belmont Hotel Manila, in partnership with ArtisteSpace.

DOT- NCR Regional Director Sharlene Batin graced the special cocktail night, attended as well by hotel guests and artists.

"Thank you so much for doing this. Thank you for patronizing the arts because it is well in line with DOT's 7-point agenda to offer a multidimensional tourism product to our tourists. Multidimensional tourism encompasses everything that we are as Filipinos. And, as part of a creative industry, we are pushing for art appreciation of Filipino talents and homegrown artists," Batin said in a message.

Belmont Hotel Manila guests came across strategic corners at the lobby and Café Belmont restaurant enhanced with visually enthralling art pieces that depict Filipino culture in a contemporary way.

"Belmont Hotel Manila, as a property of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, intends to deliver service, amenities, and an overall hotel experience that embraces Filipino culture. We are very proud of being a homegrown brand. Hiraya is now part of our advocacy. The whole idea is that on an ongoing basis, we will be highlighting the best of Filipino talents," said Belmont Hotel Manila General Manager, Sonny Alvaro.

All featured watercolorists at "Hiraya" are part of Kulay sa Tubig Competition Hall of Fame—a prestigious category reserved for the best of the best in watercolor who have won at least three times over the past 35 years.

Multi-awarded watercolorist Joei Pabilando's paintings focus on the perspective of a person peeking into a clear glass window on a rainy day.

Pabilando's love for the rain stands out as seen in his works that display blurry yet vivid and lifelike images of his main subjects. For example, the 'On His First Day' masterpiece shows a tricycle crossing the wet and busy streets of Manila.