BY: VANESSA BUGTONG
A group of young students from Baguio City earned international recognition after winning 3rd place in an Asia-Pacific mural painting competition organized by the Kiwanis Club.
At first glance, their mural looks like the work of professional artists.
But the vibrant piece is actually the product of talented elementary students from Doña Aurora Elementary School.
Among the artists is Scarlet Heather Caasi, who discovered her passion for painting back in grade school. “Sometimes I paint nature and landscapes,” she shared.
Another young painter, Grade 6 student Frank Ethan Dacwag, dreams of becoming an architect. “I watch tutorials to improve my painting, then I try what I learn on illustration boards before moving to canvas,” he explained.
Their mural entry, which took several months to complete, stood out among 31 entries in the Asia-Pacific competition held in Taiwan.
The artwork, which spans several meters, portrays different professions that children can aspire to—an idea that impressed both judges and mentors.
“We are proud that their natural talents were nurtured through proper mentoring,” said school principal Estrella Bulay.
Their art coach, Leslee Chomawin, supported the students not only through guidance but also by providing paint to ensure consistency in their work.
To further support their passion, the students also sell their artwork in school exhibits to help fund their future education. “It’s for college,” said Dacwag, who has already started saving through his earnings.
This international win is more than just a victory—it’s an inspiration for other young artists and educators to continue promoting creativity and supporting future generations of Filipino talent.
