Metrobank Foundation recognized as champion of Filipino arts
The Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI) has been recognized for its more than four decades of support for Filipino artists and the advancement of Philippine visual arts.
The foundation received the distinction of Institusyong Tagapagtaguyod ng Kultura at Sining (Institution-Champion of Culture and Arts) from the Museum Foundation of the Philippines Inc. (MFPI) during the inaugural Ang MUSEO Awards on 22 October at the National Museum of Natural History.
The recognition coincided with the MFPI’s 40th anniversary and highlighted the foundation’s sustained cultural initiatives through its flagship Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) program.
“This recognition is our heartfelt appreciation for the decades of passionate work that Metrobank Foundation, Inc. has done for Philippine visual arts, and most importantly, to the Filipino artists who give life and meaning to our cultural identity,” said Ang MUSEO Awards chair Ma. Belen Fernando.
Established in 1984 by Metrobank founder and art patron Dr. George S.K. Ty, MADE began as the Metrobank National Painting Competition. It aimed to provide young Filipinos with a platform to express themselves and share their perspectives amid prevailing socioeconomic realities.
Over the years, the competition has expanded beyond recognizing artistic excellence by providing opportunities for artists to develop their craft, reach wider audiences and build sustainable careers.
In recent editions, MADE Grand Awardees have received support for artistic development and solo exhibitions through the foundation’s partnership with Eskinita Art Farm.
Mark Andy Garcia, the 2007 MADE Grand Awardee for Oil/Acrylic on Canvas, recalled how the foundation helped him mount his first solo exhibition.
“During my first solo exhibit, nakatulong talaga ang Metrobank Foundation sa amin noon. Nandoon ang support nila para sa aming solo exhibit, one-man show,” Garcia said.
Garcia also served on the 2026 MADE Board of Judges.
Beyond exhibition opportunities, the program has helped artists build professional networks and connect with peers across generations.
Jao Pelaez, the 2025 MADE Grand Awardee for Mixed Media, said joining the competition allowed him to expand his network and develop lasting relationships within the art community.
“After MADE, lumaki yung art community na nasamahan ko. Dumami yung kaibigan kong artists,” Pelaez said.
Fellow 2025 awardee Jack de Castro, who won in the Oil/Acrylic on Canvas category, highlighted the value of community support, cash prizes and residency opportunities in helping artists sustain their practice.