For many young Filipino artists, pursuing a career in the arts can feel like an impossible dream. But through the Angat Sining fellowship, a new generation of creatives is proving that art is more than just a passion—it’s a powerful tool for advocacy, identity, and social transformation. Angat Sining aims to localize and democratize arts, particularly for students without access, ensuring that creativity and expression are not limited by circumstance but nurtured as a force for change.
Twelve exceptional young artists from across the Philippines have officially graduated as the pioneering cohort of the Angat Sining, an initiative dedicated to elevating the role of art in social change. Over several transformative months, these students honed their artistic skills, learned from renowned mentors, and discovered how creativity can drive meaningful impact in their communities.
With the support of the Metrobank Foundation, Ateneo de Manila Fine Arts Department, and other esteemed institutions, Angat Sining provided 12 promising high school artists with a rare opportunity to refine their craft, engage in social advocacy through art, and connect with some of the country’s most celebrated creatives. The program also highlighted how artistic expression is deeply woven into Filipino identity, giving young artists a platform to use their voices and tell their stories.
The program took the fellows on an immersive journey, offering hands-on workshops, exclusive modules, and direct mentorship from industry leaders. These experiences developed their artistic skills and instilled in them a deeper understanding of art’s role in advocacy and nation-building. Renowned Filipino artists such as National Artist Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera, Mark Justiniani, Toym Imao, AG Saño, Ang Ilustrador ng Kabataan (Ang INK), Fotobaryo, and The Mighty Bhutens, shared their expertise, guiding the fellows through different artistic disciplines, from mural painting and sculpture to photography and illustration.
For Diane Joy Galos from Oriental Mindoro, this journey was life-changing. “Initially, I questioned the worth and financial viability of pursuing art, but I’ve come to realize that the art world is vast, offering countless opportunities. Angat Sining gave me the confidence to grow as an artist and as a person, and now I’m more determined than ever to make an impact.”
Angat Sining aims to shift the narrative surrounding the arts in national development. By positioning young artists as changemakers, the program emphasizes that art is more than self-expression—a force for advocacy, empowerment, and community-building. The fellowship culminated in a breathtaking exhibit at the UP Fine Arts Gallery, running from January 17 to February 19, 2025.
Each piece on display was a testament to the power of mentorship, collaboration, and a shared commitment to uplifting Filipino culture and values through artistic expression.
During the exhibit’s opening, artist and mentor AG Saño reminded the fellows of the deeper responsibility that comes with their craft: “Find a way to work together. And never forget that at one point in your lives, you came together and created something big. Hindi ito ordinaryo na ginagawa ng isang artist. May responsibility kayo na gumawa ng solusyon sa mga issues na kinakaharap ng community natin ngayon.”
The success of Angat Sining is just the beginning. Angat Sining plans to expand its initiatives, including architecture-focused projects and community-led art programs. The goal is clear: to ensure art remains a powerful catalyst for positive change in the Philippines.
As the fellows step beyond the program, one thing will never change: art will continue to be a powerful catalyst for positive transformation in the Philippines. And with young visionaries like the 12 exceptional fellows leading the way, the future of Filipino art shines bright.
