FROM RECOGNITION TO COLLABORATION: 2025 MADE awardees and Punlaan mount ‘Man Made’ exhibition

The 2025 Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) competition did more than just recognize seven artists; it sparked a lasting partnership among them.

Michael Delmo, Jack de Castro, Benedict Simbulan, Ross Gadiana, Jao Eugene Pelaez, Rober Mark Liwanag, and Marc Allan Jose—in collaboration with Punlaan Art Space—have mounted an exhibition titled, Man Made. Running until February 25, 2026 at the Alitaptap Artists Community in Amadeo, Cavite, the exhibition features new works of the awardees that showcase their commitment to growing together as a community.

Keeping the Momentum

The idea to mount an exhibition began during the MADE Awarding in September last year. The artists knew that while awards can open doors, success in the art world requires continued effort and commitment.

Michael Delmo shared that the collaboration with Punlaan Art Space became a natural extension of that desire to keep moving forward. Each artist brought a distinct perspective, while Punlaan provided the platform and space to shape the exhibition through a series of online meetings, careful planning, and shared responsibilities—from defining the concept and dimensions of the works to organizing workshops during the exhibit run.

Punlaan Art Space Program Director Jeudi Garibay shared that the MADE artists were hands-on during the preparations, helping ensure that the different mediums and visually strong pieces were thoughtfully balanced in the space. He added, “Surprising yung openness nila na ipakita rin yung kanilang mas vulnerable na side, hindi lang sa mismong works pati na rin sa artist walkthrough nung opening” (It was surprising to see their openness in showing a more vulnerable side—not only in the works themselves but also during the artist walkthrough at the opening).

Through collaboration, trust, and shared work, the exhibition came together—artist-led, space-supported, and co-created.

Collaboration Over Isolation

Delmo explained that Man Made reflects a shared vision among the artists—one grounded in the belief that art draws its true strength from collaboration rather than isolation.

“Man Made is an invitation to the next generation of artists to imagine a different art world. One where unity replaces competition, where cooperation becomes a strength, and where building together is not just possible, but transformative,” said Delmo.

Keeping Art Human

The exhibition also highlights the artists’ reflections on the irreplaceable role of the human soul in art, especially in an age increasingly influenced by AI.

“I think sa panahon ng AI, dapat nating hindi makalimutan na yung pagiging gawang tao pa din ng ating mga art yung pinakamahalaga—yung pagiging tao na may lalim na galing sa ating mga kaluluwa. Yun siguro yung never marereplicate ni AI, yung soul, yung kaluluwa” (I think in the age of AI, we should not forget that human-made art remains important—it carries the depth, feeling, and humanity that only the human soul can give. That, I think, is what AI can never replicate—the soul), shared Benedict Simbulan.

Marc Allan Jose added that Man Made reflects on man’s growing reliance on automation, highlighting the risk of losing our humanity in both work and everyday life.

From Competition to Community

Brought together by MADE competition, the awardees quickly formed a supportive bond, making it easier for them to exchange ideas and encourage one another. “MADE helped us understand how to navigate the art world together, rather than individually, which ultimately encouraged us to take the step of mounting an exhibition as a group,” shared Delmo.

The 2025 MADE awardees also discovered connections through their art. “I think yung mga art nga namin is nagkakaugnay din talaga kaya salamat sa MADE, parang nahanap namin isa’t isa… Dahil may pagkakapareho sa mga sinasabi yung mga piyesa namin, gusto lang din namin talaga na maging ito yung mga tao na makakasama namin sa eksena at makita yung growth ng kanya kanyang art” (I think our artworks are really connected, so thanks to MADE, it feels like we found each other. Because there are similarities in what our pieces express, we truly wanted these to be the people we share the scene with and witness each other’s artistic growth), Simbulan shared.

An Invitation to Create

As the country celebrates National Arts Month, artists are invited to reflect on their practice and explore new possibilities alongside a wider creative community. With entries for the 2026 MADE cycle now open, the 2025 awardees share encouragement to emerging artists starting their journey.

“If you’ve been waiting for the right time, this is it. MADE is not just about submitting your work—it’s about stepping into your own voice as an artist,” Delmo said.

Jose encouraged participation, reminding emerging artists to prioritize creating meaningful work over the pursuit of prizes: “Join with the intent of making something good. Ang pagkapanalo kasi hindi measured sa laki ng prize money, kundi sa lawak ng exposure at new opportunities na makukuha” (Winning is not measured by the size of the prize money, but by the breadth of exposure and new opportunities you gain).

Jao Eugene Palaez shared the same advice once given to him: “Naalala ko sabi nila sa akin na ‘Sali lang nang sali’, may mangyayari rin sa ginagawa mo lalo kung alam mo na ito talaga ang gusto mo” (I remember they told me, ‘Just keep joining.’ Something will happen with what you’re doing, especially if you know that this is really what you want).

Growing Together

Man Made stands as a testament to what can happen when artists choose not to walk alone—and when institutions and art spaces meet them with trust and opportunity. In the hands of the seven MADE artists, recognition became responsibility, friendship became foundation, and collaboration nurtured the growth of their artistic voice.

The MADE Competition is currently accepting entries in painting, sculpture, and mixed media for its 2026 run until March 31, 2026. Artists may submit their entry forms and upload photos of their works via the online portal at metrobankartanddesign.awardsplatform.com. Returning participants from last year may log in using their existing accounts. Complete competition mechanics are available at linktr.ee/2026MADE.

For announcements and updates, follow @metrobankartanddesign on Facebook and Instagram, or join the MADE Community Facebook Broadcast Channel at www.messenger.com/channel/metrobankartanddesign. (Photos by Punlaan Art Space)