A sanded-away chalkboard of memories, a boundary marker shared by generations, and a miniature world growing from discarded objects set the tone for the winning works of the 2025 Metrobank Art and Design Excellence (MADE) competition. Held at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila in Bonifacio Global City, this year’s awards followed the theme “Vast Horizons” celebrating artistic range and social depth.
Jack Enriquez De Castro of Bulacan took the grand prize in painting for Finding the Light Within. Scraping through black paint, he revealed scenes of birthdays, weddings, and childhood symbolizing hope emerging from darkness. “This is my truest self,” he said, “an introspective artist who can pluck hope from desolation.”
In sculpture, Rober Mark Liwanag of Laguna won for Sariling Tahanan (…And We Are Home), inspired by his late grandfather’s words that those who build houses often do not own one. His work shows a grandfather and grandson with a hammer on a boundary marker. “I see myself as a home, creating belonging where there was once none,” he said.
Mixed media honors went to Jao Eugene Pelaez of Malabon for Tulad ng Isang Halaman na Minsan Nanirahan (Like a Plant That Once Lived). Using miniature figures and vitamin bottles, he reflected on survival. “Like plants in cracks and corners, people endure. We can be agents of healing.”
Special citations went to John Michael Martines Delmo for Bagahe (Baggage), which portrayed a laborer under a heavy sack; Rhoss John Farro Gadiana for I See Era, which imagined the Sierra Madre as a faceless woman, damaged yet regenerating; Marc Allan Elizan Jose for The Road You’ve Never Taken, which placed a government official among commuters; and Benedict John Iñigo Simbulan for Gunita (Memoir), which depicted a quiet morning with his grandmother, her face hidden so viewers could see someone of their own.
Grand awardees each received P500,000 and an art residency with MADE alumnus Alfredo Esquillo Jr. Special citation winners took home P100,000. All were awarded a recast brass trophy by sculptor Juan Sajid.
Toym Leon Imao, dean of the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts, led the jury, joined by Tessa Maria Guazon, Dindin Araneta, Derek Flores, Raffy Napay, Leeroy New, and Reg Yuson.
The ceremony drew artists, collectors, and cultural leaders. Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya joined Metrobank Foundation officials in presenting awards, with broadcast journalist Karen Davila as host. The night closed with a toast and the opening of the Vast Horizons exhibit.
The exhibit runs at The M until October 18, featuring over 100 works from winners, finalists, and semi-finalists. In her notes, judge and curator Guazon called the show a bridge between past and present. “It highlights key shifts in MADE’s 41-year journey,” she wrote.
Philip Francisco Dy, Metrobank Foundation president, said the return of mixed media reflects MADE’s evolution. “We are not just nurturing artists,” he said. “We are building a legacy that inspires exploration.” He also cited digital innovations and a new partnership with Eskinita Art Residency.
Beyond the awards and exhibits, MADE supports Filipino artists year-round through workshops, mentorships, and creative partnerships. For over 40 years, it has recognized more than 200 artists and helped shape Philippine art. “The growth of Filipino artists strengthens the nation,” said Dy. “MADE cultivates spaces for creativity, learning, and innovation, allowing artists to shape culture and inspire fresh ideas.”
Arthur Ty, Metrobank chairman, said the 2025 winners uphold MADE’s mission to spotlight Filipino creativity and lived experience. He praised the youth’s bold narratives and reaffirmed art’s role in driving positive change. “Let the winners of MADE continue to use their talents to contribute to the greater good of our society,” he said.
The 2025 cycle marked renewal and growth. With digital platforms, new categories, and mentorships, MADE continues to connect artists, communities, and generations through art.
