Dreaming of Florence

Filipino artists Marco Polo Cabrera, Marjowyn Vito, and Angelie Banaag are set to bring local culture to the global stage

- JESSICA PAG-IWAYAN

The Philippine archipelago, with its more than 7,000 islands, is steeped in colorful history and culture—much of which the world has yet to fully discover.

One of the most compelling ways to share this richness with a global audience is through art and participation in international exhibitions.

This year, Filipino visual artists have earned the honor of qualifying for the prestigious Florence Biennale 2025, which will take place this October in Florence, Italy. Among them are Marco Polo Cabrera, Marjowyn Vito, and Angelie Banaag.

As they prepare to step onto this celebrated international stage, Manila Bulletin Lifestyle caught up with the three during the launch of their group show, “Lakbay Sining: Likhang Pinoy, Handog sa Daigdig — Road to Florence, Italy,” held at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria in Ortigas Center. The event, organized in collaboration with Artablado, opened on Aug. 7, 2025.

Meet the artists