Artists unite for ‘Pabaon Para sa Kinabukasan’

Garapata Store, in partnership with food bank Rise Against Hunger Philippines, has launched "Pabaon Para sa Kinabukasan," an art community-led fundraiser benefiting around 400 pre-school children in Kiangan, Ifugao.

The charity art sale opened last 14 October and runs until 30 October, with proceeds supporting nutrition programs in the region.

Twenty-six artists from different generations have contributed to the cause. The more senior generation includes Elmer Borlongan, Jose John Santos III, Pam Yan Santos, Kiko Escora, MM Yu, Jonathan Ching and Annie Cabigting, joined by Venice Biennale representatives Gerry Tan and Jon Cuyson.

Artists who started around the 2000s also answered the call. Among them are Mark Andy Garcia, Ryan Jara, Max Balatbat, Zean Cabangis, Kat Medina, Art Sanchez and Bjorn Calleja. 

From the street art community comes Dex Fernandez, Blic and Doktor Karayom, while Yeo Kaa adds her pop-infused style. Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Thirteen Artists Award recipients Mars Bugaoan and Gino Bueza join emerging artists Is Jumalon, Jomari T’Leon, Kim Gaceja and Mejalosa. Together, they reflect on the art community’s spirit of generosity.

According to RAHP’s executive director, Jomar Fleras, “So many kids will benefit from this event, and I would like to thank the artists who donated works and the collectors who purchased art, all for the children of Kiangan.”

Garapata Store founder Dex Fernandez was touched by the outpouring of support: “It’s a win for everyone involved, because it’s our way of sharing blessings with people in need.”

Interested buyers can send a message through Garapata Store’s Facebook and Instagram pages, where an updated list of available works are also posted.

Through art, "Pabaon Para sa Kinabukasan" aims to help nourish both creativity and hope — building stronger, healthier communities, one child at a time.