Art, film, fashion: Iloilo Arts Festival 2026 takes over October

ILOILO CITY — Music, dance, film, visual arts, fashion, and traditional craftsmanship take the spotlight at Iloilo Business Park this month as the Iloilo Arts Festival 2026 celebrates Ilonggo creativity.

The monthlong celebration features exhibitions, performances, film screenings, and creative workshops at the township.

Themed “Panan-awan,” a Hiligaynon word meaning perspective or one’s way of seeing, the festival explores how artists interpret their surroundings, express ideas, and represent their communities.

The celebration officially kicked off on Oct. 3 with a musical performance by internationally acclaimed Ilonggo singer Jed Madela.

He also presented his V-Boy Mad Madd World collection of original art toys, showcasing his creativity beyond music.

From Oct. 14 to 18, film enthusiasts can look forward to the Ilonggo Cinema Festival at Festive Walk Cinema.

The program will showcase 37 Ilonggo films and feature filmmakers and artists, including Joey Reyes, Jo Andrew Torlao, Kevin Pison Piamonte, and Gabby Padilla.

On Oct. 17, dance will take the spotlight through “Dance Is My Life,” a retrospective honoring National Artist for Dance Agnes Locsin.

The retrospective will feature archival photographs, costumes, and multimedia materials tracing her career and contributions to Philippine dance.

Fashion will join the lineup on Oct. 23 through “Habi Noir: The Ilonggo Fashion Affair.”

The showcase will feature designers Totong Gellangarin, Yepyep Mesina, Doddie Vril Tan, John Lee Betita, Jeff Ticao, and Jun G. Candelario.

Beyond the scheduled performances and showcases, the festival also offers hands-on workshops in wood carving, watercolor, and block printing.

A food fair at Festive Walk Parade adds local culinary experiences to the festivities.

Art also extends into the township’s galleries and public spaces.

At the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art’s Hulot Gallery, “BREATH,” a photography exhibition by Ilonggo photographer Dr. Malbar G. Ferrer, explores the connections among people, wildlife, and landscapes.

“Tan-aw: Interactive Visual Art” at Festive Walk Iloilo features works by Ilonggo artist Tito Nobleza.

The immersive experience invites visitors to engage with each piece beyond simply viewing it.

At Parksquare in Casa de Emperador, “Tan-aw: Art Projection” transforms the space into a venue for large-scale visual displays.

The Iloilo Arts Festival is presented by Iloilo Business Park, a Megaworld township, in partnership with the Iloilo City Government, Iloilo City Local Culture and Arts Council, Iloilo City M.I.C.E. Center, and Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc.

Home to the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art and the Emperador Brandy Museum, Iloilo Business Park was designated Iloilo City’s Center of Arts and Culture in July 2025 through Executive Order No. 021, signed by Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu.

The designation recognizes the township’s role in promoting local heritage, artistic expression, and cultural development.