Filipino artists ignite a movement for real change through a silent art auction.

By Art+ Magazine Team
Photo courtesy of Art Lounge Manila
November 13, 2025

A profound statement born of heartache and frustration has erupted into a powerful, unified movement among Filipino artists. Over 40 leading Filipino artists have channeled their creative energy into Alab Ng Puso (Flame of the Heart), a groundbreaking silent art auction dedicated to enacting immediate, positive change for communities left underserved and suffering amidst political instability.

*Kalayaan sa Katiwalian ang Pag-Asa ng Bayan*

The initiative was sparked by artist Roel Obemio’s seminal artwork of the same title, which quickly became a rallying cry—a visceral collective protest against systemic failures. These artists are proving that the art community can, and will, do what governance has failed to do for its own people, channeling their frustration into a tangible engine for relief.

The resulting collection is more than an exhibition; it is an “Art Protest for National Hope and Immediate Relief,” affirming a stance that critiques the systemic issues rather than any specific entity.

To ensure this passion translates into immediate action, the initiative rests on a crucial three-part partnership. The artists, including renowned names like Carlo Magno, Michael Cacnio, Migs Villanueva, and Kublai Millan, serve as the voice, creating original, powerful works specifically for this cause. Providing the platform are Art Lounge Manila and Galerie Francesca Inc., who are organizing the exhibition, managing the silent auction, and mobilizing the talent. Finally, executing the essential work on the ground are the hands: the Bynum Faith Foundation, founded by NFL Player Camryn Bynum.

This partnership ensures that funds move swiftly to communities in need, bypassing bureaucratic hurdles. Demonstrating this commitment, as of October 19, the Bynum Faith Foundation was actively deployed in Cebu. The team is currently using a staging area there to deploy relief goods and administer psychological first aid to the communities within the San Remigio, Medillin, and Tabogon evacuation sites, showing the immediate, life-changing impact of this artistic solidarity.

The funds raised from this auction—themed around “Passionate Resistance, Hope, and Justice”—are dedicated immediately to communities devastated by recent earthquakes and floods in Cebu, with a long-term vision to uplift underserved Filipinos nationwide. The financial structure is designed for maximum relief: 100% of any amount bid above the artwork’s designated Gallery Price will go directly to the Bynum Faith Foundation. Should a piece sell at its Gallery Price, the artist and gallery are still committing to a 20% collective donation of the sale proceeds.

The event will symbolically commence with the solo auction of Roel Obemio’s original statement piece, culminating in a collective silent auction featuring the powerful works from the more than 40 artists involved. This includes contributions from Michael Cacnio, AZIL, Meneline Wong MD, Seth Corda, JP Tiangco, Wilfredo Offemaria, Isobel Francisco, Sam Penaso, Richard Buxani, Pete Jimenez, Francis Nacion, Janos Delacruz, Megs Empinado, and many others committed to this collective fight. The auction is an urgent invitation to patrons, collectors, and the media to join this crucial affirmation that the Alab ng Puso is alive and actively driving true service. This is a testament that real change starts with real people.

For more information about Art Lounge Manila, you can visit their website at www.artloungemanila.com. Follow their social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube at @artloungemanila for the latest updates. For collectible, functional, and wearable art, you can also shop at www.gfemporium.com.

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