The Anthem Philatelist

 R enowned painter Martino “Noy Tinong” Abellana was born on Jan. 30, 1914, in Carcar, Cebu, and lived for 74 years, leaving a legacy that may be unparalleled in the Cebuano art community; he is referred to as the “Dean of Cebuano Painters. His days spent mentoring and lecturing students on the campuses of the Cebu Institute of Technology and the University of the Philippines – Cebu (UP Cebu) are recalled by his former students with a tone of reverence. These students – many of whom have become renowned artists in their own right – will never lose their awe and respect for this great man, which has fueled a renewed movement for him to gain National Artist recognition. On Feb. 6, 2025 a celebratory program and dinner were held at the Cebu Institute of Technology-University (CIT-U) Library and Activity Center after the ceremonial unveiling of a 12-piece Abellana portrait collection featuring the personalities who were the pillars of the school. During the program, CIT-U president En...

Melver Mercado is a prominent contemporary Cebuano painter, sculptor, conceptual artist and art educator . Known for his evolving artistic perspectives and profound dedication to the medium, Mercado balances a thriving studio practice with a commitment to molding the next generation of creative minds. Early Beginnings and Inspirations Mercado’s journey into the art world began with a childlike wonder. As a young boy in his elementary years, he found early inspiration in television art programs, most notably watching Bob Ross ’s painting shows. With limited resources and a scarce stash of art books in his local public library, he diligently researched techniques and practiced with crude, self-made materials. By high school, his persistence began to bear fruit as he experimented with T-shirt printing and sold his early works to supportive relatives. Though his parents initially discouraged him from pursuing a degree in Fine Arts—leading him to take vocational courses first—Mercado event...