The exhibit of the artwork created by abandoned or neglected and sexually-abused children at the lobby of the Supreme Court’s (SC) building in Ermita, Manila has been extended until April 15.
The SC said the exhibit is being staged in coordination with CRIBS Foundation Inc. which “provides a loving, safe, and nurturing environment for abandoned or neglected children and female survivors of sexual abuse, aged seven to 17 years old.”
On display are the “powerful reflections of the children’s personal experiences, emotions and healing processes,” it said.
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 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 the children under its care and protection.
In February last year, paintings in oil and acrylic done by persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City were also displayed at the SC main building lobby.
The Valentine’s Art Exhibit and Sale dubbed “Mga Pinta ng Pag-asa Mula sa Puso ng mga PDL” was allowed by the SC Justices, led by Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo.
Displayed were the art collection of the PDLs at the NBP’s medium and security compounds and were the expressions of “the PDLs’ thoughts, aspirations, and emotions.”
Associate Justice Jose Midas P. Marquez, whose office coordinated the display of the PDLs’ paintings, said: “We are very happy that we are able to give a platform for persons deprived of liberty (PDL) to showcase not just their talents, but perhaps even more triumphantly, their resolve to live life anew.”
Justice Marquez during the opening of the display also said: “Art, just like sports, can be a transformative and empowering form of expression. By recognizing and supporting the artistic endeavors of our PDLs, we can affirm their dignity and humanity, and promote a more inclusive and compassionate society.”
The Valentine’s Art Exhibit and Sale generated a total of P653,500 from the sales of 100 out of 116 paintings. The proceeds were turned over to the PDL artists.
In July 2024, the SC also allowed in its lobby the display of artwork of former PDLs and those still confined at the Manila City jail.
In March last year, the Sandiganbayan, the country’s anti-graft court, allowed former PDLs to showcase their talents through arts they learned inside the NBP. The paintings were displayed at the court’s Centennial building in Quezon City.
In his visit to the NBP last year, Chief Justice Gesmundo underscored the judiciary’s “unwavering commitment to supporting rehabilitative initiatives that enable PDLs to address challenges, acquire new skills, and lead them towards positive personal and artistic growth.”
“Whether it is freedom or justice that you await, may you continue to find strength, hope, and guidance from the Divine. Keep dedicating yourselves to your studies and embracing this path of rehabilitation as preparation for your return to your families and communities,” Gesmundo told the PDLs.