Visual artist Jeho Bitancor’s ongoing exhibit at Art Cube Philippines “Sa Dalampasigan ng Daluyong at Dalangin (On the Shores of Storms and Prayers)” is a tribute to the resilience of Filipino fishermen. Through his paintings, Bitancor pays homage to these unsung heroes who risk their lives daily to provide for their families and communities.

Drawing inspiration from his childhood experiences in the coastal town of Baler, Aurora Province, Bitancor painted the hardships faced by fishermen in their daily struggles. He recalls witnessing their dilapidated huts, enduring monsoon seasons, and experiencing the terrifying force of nature firsthand. These events have deeply resonated with him, prompting him to create artwork that honors the courage and perseverance of those who endured them.

“As a child, I derived fun from wandering around with my friends. I sought adventure every day, and it so happened that selling pan de sal was one of those adventures. I came upon a dilapidated raw of fishermen’s huts. It was there that I witnessed how poorly they lived. I agreed to loan a bag of pan de sal to a mother who seemed really hungry. I had always been fascinated at how their small huts could survive typhoons that regularly visit our town. Aside from that incident, I had experienced firsthand a small banca capsizing. My little body was saved by a strong fisherman’s arms. I had been painting Subasko (storm in the seas) since the ’90s trying to perfect the subject. For me, it was symbolic of the heroism and struggle to survive. It has become a metaphor for our country trying to assert its right to exist with dignity,” says Bitancor. 

Bitancor’s paintings are characterized by imagery and an urgent message. His figures, often depicted in heroic stances, embody the strength and determination of fishermen. The sunburned limbs, squinted eyes, and calloused hands convey the physical toll of their labor. 

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Bitancor’s exhibit is also a powerful political statement. It addresses the ongoing conflict over contested waters and the unjust claims made by other countries. By highlighting the sacrifices of Filipino fishermen, he aims to raise awareness of their plight and solidarity. 

This artist is a firm believer in the power of art as a tool for social change. He strives to find a balance between artistic expression and political commentary in his work. He believes that art can be a tool for social justice and empowerment and advocates for artists to explore new ways to make their work more accessible to marginalized communities.

“I think that beyond the complexity of contemporary art, there are ways by which artists can make the message of the experience of art more accessible to the marginalized,” he says.

One of Bitancor’s most powerful pieces, “Igpaw sa Halimaw,” is a symbolic representation of unity and resistance. It depicts the Filipino people as a united front, fighting for their rights and dignity. “It symbolically positions us as one unit or class with one common interest—to free us from the abuses and coercion of China,” he explains.

Through his artwork, Jeho Bitancor not only honors fishermen but also challenges us to reflect on our own role in protecting our nation’s sovereignty and dignity. 

“Through my exhibit, I want send the message that we should not lose hope, that through concerted effort focused on an insurmountable obstacle, we will overcome it. Also, my works are meant to instill pride among the marginalized sector, that their sacrifices are a great contribution to nation-building,” he says. 

“Sa Dalampasigan ng Daluyong at Dalangin” runs until Oct. 5 at Art Cube Philippines.