Baguio artists urge tourism officer to resign

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Baguio City creative community is demanding the resignation of Supervising Tourism Operations Officer Aloysius "Alec" Mapalo, alleging him of not valuing the hard work of the arts community.

The demand comes despite Mapalo issuing a formal public apology for what he termed a "mistake," acknowledging the incident has intensified long-standing issues between the city and its artists.

The controversy stems from the dismantling of the Ibagiw Creative Festival 2020 Mural by artist Angelo Aurelio.

In a statement, Mapalo took "full responsibility" for the lapse, clarifying that the artwork was removed to make way for another installation without informing the artist. Mapalo explained that the team was rushing preparations for the festival opening, emphasizing that there was "absolutely no intention to disrespect him or his work."

He also noted that while the team was directed to apologize, they were informed the artist was not yet interested in retrieving the mural. Mapalo stressed the importance of clearer and more proactive communication moving forward.

In response, artists, cultural workers, allies, and concerned citizens launched a "Petition for Accountability," asserting that the mural's removal is symptomatic of deeper, systemic problems. The artists argue that the incident represents "deeper gaps in consultation, transparency, and the safeguarding of cultural works" that have long troubled the community.

The petitioners express strong concern over the "perceived undervaluing of artistic labor," the "lack of consistent, transparent engagement," and the sentiment that art is being exploited primarily for "tourism promotion without adequate recognition of its cultural significance." They also highlighted the "absence of clear protocols" for protecting cultural works and the painful loss represented by the disposal of the Ibagiw 2020 Mural.

Given the accumulated concerns and the "erosion of trust" between the artists and the office responsible for cultural affairs, the community believes meaningful change requires a change in leadership. They manifested a definitive call for three actions: that Mapalo should give a full and public apology that specifically acknowledges the concerns raised by the Baguio artists; voluntary resignation of the tourism officer from all his functions related to arts, culture, and tourism, to allow for new leadership and renewed trust; and the creation of transparent, artist-led mechanisms to ensure fair treatment and proper protection of cultural works moving forward.

The artists also appealed to Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, as Chairperson of the Baguio Creative City Council, to intervene and address these concerns with urgency, fairness, and meaningful consultation.

They emphasize that the city's culture and heritage require "stewardship grounded in care, consultation, and accountability," underscoring their unified commitment to ensuring a future where art is truly valued and protected.