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Artwork of abandoned children on display at SC's lobby in Manila
Artwork of abandoned children on display at SC's lobby in Manila
There is an exhibit of artwork created by abandoned children now at the lobby of the Supreme Court (SC) on Padre Faura Street in Ermita, Manila.
Those on display are the “powerful reflections of the children’s personal experiences, emotions and healing processes,” the SC said.
The abandoned children are under the care of CRIBS Foundation, Inc., a non-profit organization that “provides a loving, safe, and nurturing environment for abandoned or neglected children and female survivors of sexual abuse, ages seven to 17.” It is licensed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Through the office of Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh, the SC -- in partnership with CRIBS Foundation -- organized the art exhibit and a dialogue on “Art of Healing” as part of its observance of the 2025 National Women’s Month.
The SC’s Office of the Spokesperson said the collaboration “seeks to increase awareness among SC officials and employees of the impact of sexual abuse against minors, the challenges they face, and the importance of their eventual healing and empowerment.”
Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, together with Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen and Associate Justice Samuel H. Gaerlan, opened the exhibit at the SC New Building Lobby.
They were joined by Court of Appeals (CA) Associate Justices Nina G. Antonio-Valenzuela and Emily L. San Gaspar-Gito, Philippine Judicial Academy Vice Chancellor and retired SC Associate Justice Edgardo L. Delos Santos, Clerk of Court En Banc Atty. Marife M. LomibaoCuevas, First Division Clerk of Court Atty. Maria Teresa B. Sibulo, Second Division Clerk of Court Atty. Teresita A. Tuazon, SC Chief Communications Officer Atty. Michael Jobert I. Navallo, Judicial Reform Program Administrator Atty. Laura C.H. Del Rosario, Chief Administrative Officer Atty. Maria Carina A. Matammu–Cunanan, and CRIBS representative Josephine Ordaniel.
CRIBS Executive Director Josefina Dimalaluan led the dialogue with SC officials and employees. The dialogue addressed significant topics such as trauma recovery and legal protection for survivors. It also emphasized the importance of therapeutic intervention and the role of society in supporting vulnerable children.
The SC said that those interested in purchasing any artwork on exhibit may contact the Office of Associate Justice Maria Filomena D. Singh at (02) 85234974.
It said the proceeds from the sale will go directly to the CRIBS to support the foundation’s programs for abandoned, neglected, and sexually abused children.