4 January 2023, Ottawa. Pepito Escanlar’s “Dinagyang” opens, as a featured artwork, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs’ 2023 Desk Calendar “Juan and Culture.” Escanlar is the Philippine Honorary Consul in Regina, Saskatchewan.

The image depicts the vigor, youthfulness, exuberance, and colorful costumes of the performances and festivities at the annual Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City, Escanlar’s hometown. Dinagyang Festival is a religious and cultural celebration that pay tribute to the Holy Child Jesus or fondly called as Sto. Niño.

Likewise featured in the calendar are Tedorico “Teody” Asuncion’s “Balikatan (Bayanihan)” and Edgardo Lantin’s “Fresh Catch”. Lantin is based in British Columbia while Asuncion is from Ontario.

The “Juan and Culture” 2023 Desk Calendar highlights the uniqueness and wonder of the Philippines and its people through art by Filipinos all across the globe. They reflect the traits and characteristics that make Filipinos stand out – pakikipagkapwa, bayanihan, love for the family, respect for the elderly, courage, resilience, and faith in the almighty. END.