By Veronica Uy
The Philippine Business and News in collaboration with Hotel Okura Manila unveiled an exquisite limited edition mug featuring a reproduction of an early and rare masterpiece by the renowned Philippine National Artist for Painting, Vicente Silva Manansala.
Entitled “Barung-Barong” (meaning shanty), the artwork captures the essence of everyday life in the Philippines with profound artistry. Crafted exclusively for attendees of THEPHILBIZNEWS Embassy Night Year 3, this mug bears a replica of Manansala’s original piece of acrylic on metal tapping.
Only 222 mugs have been produced, making this a highly coveted collector’s item.
Ronna Manansala, granddaughter of the esteemed artist and also a painter, generously contributed to this project, enabling the immortalization of the essence of “Barung-Barong” on these limited edition mugs.
“We are honored to present this limited edition Vicente Silva Manansala mug at THEPHILBIZNEWS Embassy Night Year 3,” said Monsi Alfonso Serrano, publisher of The Philippine Business and News. “This artwork not only celebrates the cultural richness of the Philippines but also pays tribute to the vision and legacy of one of our nation’s most esteemed artists.”
The limited edition Manansala mug was available exclusively to attendees of THEPHILBIZNEWS Embassy Night Year 3, further enhancing the event’s prestige and cultural significance.
This collaboration between The Philippine Business and News and Hotel Okura Manila symbolizes the enduring values of humility, hospitality, and resilience. It serves as a poignant reminder of the contributions made by diplomats, investors, and nation builders from friendly and allied nations who embrace the Philippines as their second home.