Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte on Wednesday, April 26, led the unveiling of a new mural featuring different endangered species in the Philippines installed at the Elliptical Road underpass in the city.
The “QC Underparadisso” was made through the partnership of the local government and the Sentro Artista Art Hub, an art gallery that aims to create an accessible space for all forms of art (painting, photography, music, handicrafts) to empower growing creatives in the country.
Pedestrians will see different endangered plants and animals in the country such as the Philippine Eagle, Tamaraw, {angolin, warty pig (a pig with three warts on the face), Negros Bleeding Heart Pigeon, Tarsier, Waling-waling (a species of orchid), and Alocasia (an ornamental plant) painted on the walls of the underpass that connects the Quezon City Hall to the Quezon Memorial Circle.
(Photo from QC Mayor Joy Belmonte Facebook page/ MANILA BULLETIN)
The painting is collectively created for a moth by internationally acclaimed muralist A.G. Sano, and volunteers from Boundless Possibilities Foundation who brought the Gentle Giants, a group of young artists with special needs, art students from Eulogio Amang Rodriguez Institute of Science & Technology, UP College of Fine Arts, and Central Colleges of the Philippines, environmental advocate and groups of local artists.
A quick response (QR) code which passersby can scan to gain more knowledge about the endangered species is placed at the entrance to the underpass.
"We recognize that all walks of life can learn so much through art. We hope that the QC Underparadisso will be able to raise the awareness of the public, especially the youth, and inspire them to do their share in protecting the environment," Belmonte said.
"We want our QCitizens to look forward to walking along a beautiful, colorful, and enjoyable underpass where they can take pictures and learn more about nature," she added.
The mural was made as part of the city’s celebration of Earth Day and as a symbol of the city’s solidarity in protecting Philippine biodiversity.
Former Quezon City Mayor and House Speaker Feliciano “Sonny” Belmonte Jr., QC District 1 Representative Arjo Atayde, and city councilors were present during the event.
Boundless Possibilities Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides transitional services and community activities for adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities.