Daily TribuneWilly Layug, a master sculptor whose works adorn churches and cathedrals worldwide, is revered for his ability to breathe life into religious sculptures. His name has become synonymous with the finest Filipino craftsmanship.
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Sculptor Willy Layug.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF WILLY LAYUG
Through workshops and mentorship programs, Layug provides young artists with access to resources and opportunities that were once out of reach for him.
The demand for Willy Layug’s intricate and soulful carvings has introduced Filipino artistry to a global audience.
In a small workshop in Betis, a district in Guagua, Pampanga, the rhythmic sound of chisels meeting wood fills the air, accompanied by the faint scent of varnish and sawdust. This is the world of Willy Layug, a master sculptor whose works adorn churches and cathedrals across the world. Revered for his ability to breathe life into his religious sculptures, Layug’s name has become synonymous with Filipino craftsmanship at its finest. But for the man himself, his legacy extends far beyond the intricate details of his works. It is the people he inspires — the next generation of Filipino artists — that matter most.
Layug’s journey began in his hometown, a place long known for its heritage of woodcarving. As a young boy, he was drawn to the artistry that transformed simple wood into sacred images of saints and religious icons. His devotion to his craft led him to study at the feet of master artists abroad, learning techniques that would later shape his signature style: A seamless blend of traditional Filipino motifs and European influences.
“Every piece I create is an offering,” Layug says. “But beyond that, it’s also a story, a connection to our culture and faith.” This dedication has earned him numerous accolades, including recognition from both religious institutions and cultural bodies.
Over the years, Layug’s works have found their way to international markets, gracing churches and collectors’ galleries around the world. The demand for his intricate and soulful carvings has brought Filipino artistry to a global audience. This expansion, however, would not have been possible without the help of a trusted logistics service provider. FedEx has helped streamline the process of exporting his delicate creations, ensuring that each piece arrives safely at its destination in mint condition.
“When you’re working with something as fragile as a sculpture, you need to trust that it will be handled with care,” Layug explains. “The FedEx team understands the value of these pieces, not just in monetary terms but in cultural and spiritual significance.”
From careful packaging to managing customs requirements, FedEx has made it possible for Layug to focus on his art without having to worry about the complexities of international shipping. This collaboration has been instrumental in elevating Filipino craftsmanship onto the global stage.
While his masterpieces are awe-inspiring, Layug’s greatest pride lies in the impact he’s had on others. Over the years, he has taken countless young artists under his wing, not only to teach them sculpting techniques he has learned from others as well as those he has developed over the years, but also to instill in them the belief that their art matters.
“I always tell them, ‘Don’t just carve wood. Find your own voice, your own style and create art,’” he shares. “Art is personal. It’s not just about perfecting techniques but about expressing yourself in a way that’s true to who you are.”
This philosophy has resonated deeply with his apprentices. Many have gone on to establish their own careers, carrying forward the traditions of Filipino sculpting while adding their own modern interpretations.
Layug has also formalized his commitment to passing on his craft. Through workshops and mentorship programs, he provides young artists with access to resources and opportunities that were once out of reach for him.
“It’s not just about teaching them to carve wood,” he explains. “It’s about inspiring them to dream, to believe that they have something valuable to offer the world.”
He is particularly passionate about preserving the cultural identity of Filipino art in a rapidly modernizing world. Layug encourages his students to draw inspiration from their heritage, weaving Filipino traditions into their works while embracing their unique artistic perspectives.
For Layug, the true measure of success is not in awards or monetary rewards but in the lives he’s touched. “If I can help one artist believe in his or herself, if I can train someone who will keep our traditions alive, then I’ve done my part,” he says with a humble smile.
As the sun sets over Betis, the glow of Layug’s workshop remains, a beacon of inspiration for all who step foot into this sanctuary. His hands may craft exquisite sculptures, but it is his heart that shapes a brighter future for Filipino art — one artist, one dream, and one masterpiece at a time.
