Sacred strokes: Betis carvers bring faith and art to Manila Cathedral

A profound intersection of artistry and devotion unfolds within the Manila Cathedral as 15 master sculptors from the renowned woodcarving district of Betis, Pampanga, showcase their sacred creations in an exhibit titled “Sacred Arts of Betis.”

Running until 8 April, this exhibit is not only a visual feast but also a fundraising initiative for the upcoming Dukit Festival in Guagua, Pampanga.

Organized by the Betis Dukit Heritage Foundation Inc. (BDHFI) and the Manduquit Anluagi ning Santa Ursula (MASU), the exhibit has already garnered attention, with three pieces sold on its opening day. BDHFI treasurer Ester Beltran confirmed that the proceeds will support vibrant street dancing and woodcarving competitions held under the patronage of the St. James the Apostle Parish in Betis since 2012.

The exhibit is spearheaded by Willy Layug, a recipient of the prestigious Presidential Merit Award for Ecclesiastical Art and founder of MASU. A key figure in Betis’s carving community, Layug timed the exhibit during the Lenten season, emphasizing the belief that "arts and faith go together," which resonates deeply in Betis’ artistic legacy.

Featured in the exhibit are works by prominent artists such as Alberto I. Pangilinan’s “Jesus,” Jeffrey Rubio’s “Pagtanggap sa Krus” (Acceptance of the Cross), Rhen Layug’s “Matthew 11:22-33,” Russel Pangilinan’s “Sentesiado” (Sentenced), and Edwin Layug’s “Ecce Homo.” Visitors can also admire Nicolas “Nick” Lugue’s “Jesus Cautivo” (Captive Jesus), Francisco G. Sibug’s “Resurrection,” and other powerful works, with prices ranging from P110,000 to P600,000.

The exhibit’s inauguration was attended by Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, Monsignor Rolando de la Cruz, and Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, all lending their support and blessing the exhibit in the Blessed Souls Chapel. Cardinal David highlighted the historical Kapampangan connection to the Manila Cathedral, recalling how the first Kapampangan Cardinal, Rufino Santos, oversaw its post-World War II restoration.

Monsignor De la Cruz expressed the cathedral’s honor in hosting the exhibit and supporting the Dukit Festival, wishing the works would inspire "the worship of the Divine."

In addition to the exhibit and festival, the BDHFI, in collaboration with Don Honorio Ventura State University and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), is nurturing the next generation of carvers. With funding from Cardinal David, woodcarving and clay modeling lessons are being offered to inmates at the BJMP Guagua jail, under the guidance of Willy Layug.