The First Art Camp Philippines Painting Contest at Manila Port
Panel of Judges : Dr. Guingon, Dr. Ofiaza, Dr. Cesar Hilario Jr., Dr. Ramirez
and Artist Jesus Genotiva, Head Judge for Visual Arts
The First Art Camp Philippines Painting Contest at Manila Port
celebrated not only creativity and heritage, but also the stories of the artists behind the canvases. Among the many talented participants, three stood out for their passion, skill, and commitment to the cause of art and culture.
Medium: Acrylic on Linen Wood, “M/B Q/L JAIME” Year: 2025
Grand Prize Winner – Emmanuel Robles
A self-taught artist from San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, Emmanuel Robles captured both the spirit of the port and the camaraderie of the art community. For him, joining art contests is not only about winning, but about bonding with fellow artists—sharing laughter, stories, and inspiration while creating art in meaningful spaces. His winning piece reflects this spirit of joy and connection, proving that art thrives in fellowship.
2nd Place – Meljan Albert Cabagay
With a background in Philosophy, Meljan Albert Cabagay approaches art with depth and reflection. His discipline in realism and portraiture allows him to bring precision and humanity to his works. Joining the contest was his way of supporting Art Camp Philippines’ mission: to highlight iconic places in the country and ignite patriotism through art. His piece stood as a bridge between philosophy, passion, and national pride.
Medium: Oil on Wood, “M/B Q/L JAIME” Year: 2025
3rd Place – Adan Pesito
A proud son of Mabini, Adan Pesito’s journey into art is as colorful as his paintings. Once a “ghost artist” for an antique shop owner, he honed his craft by producing religious artworks and church murals. Over time, he struck out on his own, receiving projects from churches and private clients while joining exhibitions and plein-air sessions. His piece in the competition reflected his mastery of traditional forms and his deep-rooted connection to Philippine heritage.
(L-R) 3rd Place: Adan Pesito, Grand Prize: Emmanuel Robles, 2nd Place: Meljan Albert Cabagay
3 Honorable Mentions: Jun Tuplano, Reuel “Lolo” Garzon, Jorge M. Milante
The competition drew talented artists who translated the port’s history, heritage, and maritime culture into striking works of art.
Together, these three winning entries embody what Art Camp Philippines stands for: art that is alive, meaningful, and deeply connected
to heritage, community, and the Filipino spirit.
“The M/B Q/L Jaime is more than a boat—it is a lifeline.
Once used by quarantine doctors it carried frontliners across the waters as they guarded the nation’s health at the gates of Manila. Today, the vessel stands as a symbol of vigilance, sacrifice, and service. Just as these doctors braved uncertain tides to protect lives, Art Camp Philippines now sails on the same spirit—crossing boundaries through art, history, and community.
The Jaime reminds us that every journey of healing and heritage begins with courage and the will to serve.”
🎨 A heartfelt thank you to the Bureau of Quarantine, participating artists, and all who made this special day possible. This is just the beginning of bringing creative energy into public spaces — one canvas at a time.
“The truest wealth we possess is not gold nor treasure, but our history and heritage.
What unfolded was more than a contest—it was a gathering of artists, like rivers converging at the bay, flowing together to shape memory.
At the Manila Port, the first circle of creators cast their lines onto paper in a symphony of live sketching.
Each stroke became a vessel, carrying fragments of the past into the present, and in that moment they inscribed not just images,
but a new chapter of history at the city’s very gates.”
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