As a boy, Josso Baldera dreamed of the sea. He imagined himself steering ships across vast oceans, chasing horizons, and learning from every port of call. The open water called to him like destiny.

But fate had other plans.

The sudden death of his father brought that dream crashing down. Forced to give up maritime school and work for survival, Josso found himself adrift—grieving, uncertain, and searching for purpose. In those silent, solitary hours, he turned to his hands. He picked up a tool. He carved. And in doing so, he unearthed a gift he never knew he had.

“Hindi ko alam na marunong pala ako (I didn’t know I had it in me),” he recalls. “My dream was to become a seaman, but God gave me another sea to navigate—the sea of creativity.”

From the ashes of loss came a life redirected—not toward the sea, but toward sculpture. What began as a detour became his destination.

Now based in Navotas City, Josso Baldera has handcrafted more than 400 pieces over the last decade—each one rooted in Filipino culture, faith, and memory. His works, showcased recently in “Crafted Visions by Josso Baldera” at Belmont Hotel Manila’s 5th Hiraya Art Exhibit, are deeply personal yet universally resonant.

One of his earliest sculptures was a gift to his wife, the woman he credits as his guiding star. “She’s my compass,” he says. “Everything I make, whether it’s for a client or myself, I make sure that it carries love, memory, and Filipino soul. This is my way of showing gratitude to my wife, to God, and to showcase our rich Filipino culture.”

From cherry blossoms and blooming orchids to saranggola flying in the wind, Lady Justice tributes, and serene Sunday fishing scenes, Baldera’s creations speak of everyday joys, quiet strength, and a heritage that endures.

“Our advocacy is to promote not just local artists, but the rich culture their work represents,” shared a Belmont Hotel Manila spokesperson. “Josso is not only talented—he’s deeply Filipino in every sense.”

Despite having no formal training, Baldera is now a sought-after artist, shaping wood and metal with precision and care, pouring life into every curve and cut. Yet his message to young artists remains grounded:

“If you want to be an artist, give it everything. Walang lugar ang tamad dito (There’s no place for laziness here).”

Where once he dreamed of oceans, Josso Baldera now sails a sea of imagination. His compass is love. His vessel, art. And with every sculpture, he charts a path that carves not just wood or metal—but a legacy of Filipino identity, one heartfelt piece at a time.

A special opening event welcomed esteemed guests, including members of the media and valued clients. The occasion was graced by Belmont Hotel Manila’s Director of Operations, Mayann Malapote, and Cluster General Manager, Socrates Alvaro, who highlighted the hotel’s commitment to fostering Filipino artistry and cultural appreciation.

Crafted Visions features the remarkable three-dimensional works of Josso Baldera, a young,talented artist whose pieces explore themes of life, nature, and the human experience. Each sculpture serves as a powerful visual narrative, inviting audiences to reflect on the beauty and complexity of our world through the lens of Baldera’s creativity.

Hiraya: Crafted Visions showcases the extraordinary three-dimensional works of Josso Baldera, a talented young artist whose sculptures explore themes of life, nature, and the human experience. Each piece tells a compelling visual story, inviting audiences to reflect on the beauty and complexity of the world through Baldera’s creative lens.

Baldera’s artistic journey began under the mentorship of the renowned artist AngelitoCacnio, with whom he apprenticed for nearly a decade. During this time, he honed his craft, learning the intricacies of sculpture while developing his own unique style. His perseverance, coupled with his inherent talent, helped him transition from apprentice to artist, making him able to create pieces that are both visually stunning and deeply meaningful.

Featured in the book: “Alphabet of Filipino Contemporary Artists Volume 2” by Lander P. Blanza, Baldera’s works continue to gain recognition for their depth and artistic significance.

Visit Belmont Hotel Manila and discover the unique works of Josso Baldera, on display until April 20, 2025. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a piece of this captivating collection, as all artworks are available for purchase or you may check out this link to see of his creations.

Link: https://qrco.de/bfpVyT

For more information, please call 5318 8888 or email info@belmontmanila.com.