Iloilo City is currently showcasing an impressive collection of 16 masterpieces by renowned Filipino artists, thanks to the Lopez family’s generosity. The exhibit, titled ‘Patrimony of All – Ang Panublion sang Tanan Paintings from the Lopez Museum and Library Collection,’ opened its doors to the public on November 26, 2024, and will continue until April 25, 2025, at the University of the Philippines Visayas Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage.
The collection features works from notable artists such as Juan Luna, Felix Hidalgo, Fernando Amorsolo, and Juan Arellano. Mercedes Lopez-Vargas, president of the Lopez Group Foundation and executive director of the Lopez Museum and Library, emphasized the significance of bringing these artworks to Iloilo, highlighting the family’s deep roots and commitment to the community.
This is the first time the Lopez family has displayed their collection outside Manila, a move that involved meticulous care due to the delicate nature of the century-old artworks. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the University of the Philippines Visayas, the Lopez Group Foundation, Inc., and the Iloilo City Government, with support from Senator Loren Legarda.
The exhibit not only brings Filipino art to the Visayas but also celebrates Iloilo’s rich architectural heritage. The venue itself, designed by Juan Arellano, adds a historical layer to the event. Former senator Franklin Drilon praised the Lopez family’s contribution, noting their integral role in Iloilo’s cultural landscape.
Plans are in place to extend the exhibit for another six months, pending funding, which would allow more time for the community, especially the youth, to engage with these cultural treasures. Senator Legarda expressed her hope that the exhibit would foster a deeper understanding of Filipino identity and culture among visitors.
Rosalie Treñas, wife of Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, underscored the city’s vibrant arts scene, which has solidified its status as the arts capital of the Philippines. She believes the exhibit will offer valuable insights into the community’s cultural heritage and values.