The city of Cadiz in Negros Occidental recently made history by hosting the first-ever Visayas-wide painting competition, drawing 300 artists from across the region. Part of the ongoing Dinagsa Festival 2025, the event marked a significant expansion of the competition, which had previously been limited to local artists since its inception in 2019. The competition, themed “Pagsibol sa Kabihasnang Pamumuhay” (“Emergence of Civilized Life”), celebrated the diverse cultures and shared heritage of the Visayan people.
A Regional Celebration of Art
For the first time, artists from provinces like Cebu, Bohol, Bacolod, Iloilo, and others joined the competition, creating a vibrant showcase of Visayan talent. The theme of the contest aimed to highlight the region’s rich history, traditions, and the collective spirit of its communities. The event not only allowed local artists to compete but also fostered a sense of unity and pride among the Visayan people. As Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. aptly said, "Art unites us," and this competition proved just that by bringing together diverse artistic voices from across the region.
Jayson Droña’s “Mga Kamay ng Pag-asa” Inspires
The grand prize of PHP200,000 went to Cebu’s Jayson Droña for his powerful painting “Mga Kamay ng Pag-asa” (“Hands of Hope”). The oil painting, measuring 26 x 32 inches, depicted hands from different Visayan cultures holding symbols of hope and unity. Icons like Cebu’s Sto. Niño, Bacolod’s Masskara, and Capiz’s shells made up the symbolic elements in Droña’s work, underscoring the theme of solidarity.
Droña’s artwork conveyed a strong message about the importance of community and collective action, particularly in difficult times. “The hands symbolize every individual’s role in building a better tomorrow,” he explained. His masterpiece captured the essence of Visayan values — faith, hard work, and resilience.
Recognizing Emerging Talent
Other winners included second-place finisher Hondrey Debalucos of Cebu (PHP 100,000) and third-place winner Paul Jhon Cabanalan of Iloilo (PHP 50,000). Judges for the competition included renowned artists such as Cid Reyes, Ron Lopez Davis, and Dopy Doplon, ensuring a fair and thoughtful selection process.
The event was a remarkable celebration of Visayan culture, demonstrating the unifying power of art and showcasing the incredible talent within the region.
