By: Angelica Arquero

As the country prepares to celebrate its 127th Independence Day and the 80th anniversary of Baguio City’s liberation, local artists gathered to showcase works that reflect the theme of freedom in an exhibit held at Baguio Country Club.

The exhibit opened on June 9 and features artworks that commemorate the country’s liberation from Spanish colonizers in 1898 and the city’s release from American forces during World War II.

Andrew Pinero, one of the event organizers, shared the purpose behind the exhibit. “We wanted to highlight how freedom has evolved and how it’s understood by today’s generation,” he said.

Assistant Regional Director of DTI-CAR, Atty. Samuel Gallardo, also commended the initiative, noting how art can powerfully convey history and national pride.

One of the featured pieces is a painting by teacher-artist Ben Ebanio, inspired by his own child. “It was a challenge to finish, but my child’s smile inspired every detail,” Ebanio shared. “Each part of the painting tells a story.”

The exhibit also pays tribute to Baguio’s historical journey, including rare photos from the American occupation displayed by seasoned city photographer Monch Salud David.

“This is more than just a visual display,” David said. “It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come.”

The exhibit will run until June 12. Visitors are encouraged to not only admire the beauty of the artworks but also to reflect on the deeper message of the freedom Filipinos enjoy today.