The Philippine Embassy held a vernissage with the theme “Katutubo – Tribute to Philippine Indigenous Women”” on Saturday, 06 April 2019 at the Embassy’s Sentro Rizal.

The vernissage featured the paintings of Ms. Pamela Gotangco, a Filipino-Swiss artist based in Switzerland. In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Denis Yap Lepatan noted the exceptional artistic qualities of Ms. Gotangco’s painting as well as her subject – the indigenous peoples, indigenous culture, and indigenous art – which challenged her artistic institutions. He also said the painting not only honors the indigenous peoples but likewise helps preserve their traditions.

Amb. Denis Yap Lepatan delivers his welcome remarks during the event held at the Sento Rizal.

Ambassador Lepatan also noted the Philippines’ efforts to preserve and protect the heritage of its indigenous peoples amidst progress and modernity, and the country’s Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997, which recognizes and promotes the dignity and all rights of its indigenous peoples and communities.

The participants listen to Amb. Denis Yap Lepatan as he delivers his remarks during the event held at the Sento Rizal. 

Ms. Pamela Gotangco shares with the participants her intention and inspirations in coming up with the Katutubo series paintings.

Madame Maria Teresa Lepatan, the wife of the Ambassador and host of the event, acknowledged Ms. Gotangco and thanked the almost forty (40) participants who attended the event. Many of the women who graced the event also wore indigenous fabrics and accessories, highlighting their appreciation and support for the indigenous culture. 

Madame Maria Teresa Lepatan acknowledges Ms. Gotangco and the guests of the event.

                         (L-R): Philippine Permanent Representative to the United Nations and Other International Organizations, Amb. Evan Garcia; Consul, a.h., in the Canton of Ticino, Margherita Maffeis;                                             Ms. Pamela Gotangco, Amb. Denis Yap Lepatan and Madame Maria Teresa Lepatan pose for a souvenir photo during the event.

(L-R): Madame Lepatan, Ms.Marissa Gonzalez, also a painter, Ms. Pamela Gotangco, and Amb. Denis Yap Lepatan pose before the Sentro Rizal banner of the Embassy