Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI) has been recognized for more than four decades of supporting Filipino artists and promoting Philippine visual arts, receiving the Institusyong Tagapagtaguyod ng Kultura at Sining award at the inaugural Ang MUSEO Awards.
Presented by the Museum Foundation of the Philippines Inc. (MFPI) on October 22, 2026, at the National Museum of Natural History, the award coincided with the organization’s 40th anniversary. It recognised MBFI’s longstanding contribution to the arts through its flagship Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) program.
“This recognition is our heartfelt appreciation for the decades of passionate work that Metrobank Foundation Inc. has done for Philippine visual arts, and most importantly, to the Filipino artists who give life and meaning to our cultural identity”, said Ang MUSEO Awards chair Maria Belen Fernando.
Established in 1984 by Metrobank founder and art patron Dr. George S.K. Ty, MADE began as the Metrobank National Painting Competition. It was founded to give young Filipinos a platform to express themselves and reflect on the country’s social and economic realities through art.
Over the years, the program has evolved beyond an annual competition, providing artists with opportunities to develop their careers, reach wider audiences, and build a sustainable practice.
Supporting artistic careers
MADE’s support extends beyond recognition and prize money. In recent editions, grand awardees have received assistance for artistic development and solo exhibitions through MBFI’s partnership with Eskinita Art Farm.
For Mark Andy Garcia, the 2007 MADE grand awardee for oil/acrylic on canvas, the support helped him stage his first solo exhibition. Garcia, who also served on the 2026 MADE board of judges, recalled Metrobank Foundation’s contribution.
“During my first solo exhibit, nakatulong talaga ang Metrobank Foundation sa amin noon. Nandoon ang support nila para sa aming solo exhibit, one-man show,” he said.
Building an artistic community
Beyond exhibition opportunities, MADE has helped foster a network of artists who exchange ideas, share experiences, and learn from different generations.
For 2025 MADE grand awardee for mixed media Jao Pelaez, the competition opened doors to new relationships within the artistic community.
“After MADE, lumaki yung art community na nasamahan ko. Dumami yung kaibigan kong artists,” he said.
The connections gave him opportunities to learn from both emerging and established artists, enriching his creative practice.
Fellow 2025 MADE grand awardee Jack de Castro, who won in the oil/acrylic on canvas category, also highlighted the importance of a supportive artistic network. Access to peers who understand the challenges of the profession, offer advice, and share their experiences can help artists sustain their careers.
He also pointed to the value of cash prizes and residency opportunities. While financial awards help meet everyday expenses, residencies provide dedicated time and space for artists to develop their work.
Bringing art into public discourse
MADE also seeks to bring Filipino art beyond galleries and into wider public conversations.
For 2026 MADE grand awardee for sculpture Aldrin Olaguir, the competition offered an opportunity to expose his work to different interpretations and broader social discussions.
“MADE offered my work a chance to move beyond me, allowing people to bring their own experiences and interpretations into the piece,” Olaguir shared in a media interview.
“For me, MADE wasn’t simply a competition or another exhibition opportunity. It became a place where I could test whether this idea could become part of a larger conversation about where we are as a society right now,” he added.
Keeping support relevant
As the needs of artists evolve, continued engagement with the creative community remains central to Metrobank Foundation’s approach.
Visual artist and sculptor Reg Yuson, chair of the 2026 MADE board of judges, praised MBFI for consulting artists on ways to strengthen the program.
“The fact that the Metrobank Foundation consistently consults artists on how to improve its program says a lot about its commitment to the arts.”
MBFI president Philip Francisco Dy said the recognition would reinforce the Metrobank Foundation’s efforts to work with cultural institutions and build a stronger environment for Filipino artists.
“This recognition strengthens our commitment to working with institutions such as the Museum Foundation of the Philippines to help foster a collaborative arts ecosystem where artists can build sustainable careers and Philippine art can thrive.”
After more than 40 years, MADE has grown into a platform that supports not only artistic talent but also the wider ecosystem needed to sustain it. Through career opportunities, professional networks, and public engagement, MBFI continues to contribute to the development of Filipino artists and the country’s cultural landscape.
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