Chicago PH Consulate opens ‘Lupang Hinirang’ exhibit, Women’s Month fete

Ribbon cutting at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Consulate in Chicago; from left, Marra Balan and kids, Paul Balan and Consul General Generoso DG Calonge. CONTRIBUTED/ Arneil Torres

CHICAGO — An art exhibit by Paul Balan titled “Lupang Hinirang Series” was opened with a receptio at the Philippine Consulate’s Kalayaan Hall March 16 as part of the consutate’s 23rd Pagkikita sa Konsulado.

The Lupang Hinirang Series is the first-ever visual representation of the lyrics of the Philippine National Anthem. The artist Balan hails from the town of Paete, which is known for its sculptors, painters, musicians and poets.

Artist Paul Balan, his family with (seated from left) Consul Ericka Anna T. Abad, Deputy Consul General Romulo Victor M. Israel Jr., Consul General Generoso DG Calonge, Consul Melchor Lalunio Jr. and members of the consulate staff. CONTRIBUTED/Arneil Torres

In his opening remarks, Consul General Generoso D.G. Calonge paid tribute Balan’s world-class talent as a painter and sculptor as a source of immense pride not just to the Consulate General, but also to the Filipino American community in the Midwest.

The Consulate General, in partnership with Mr. Balan, will host the exhibit from March 16-23 in celebration of the National Arts Month.

The 23rd Pagkikita also included a celebration of the National Women’s Month, the highlight of which was a brief remark by Post’s GAD Focal Point, Consul Ericka Anna Abad, on the importance of the celebration and significant developments on gender equality under the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Consul Melchor Lalunio announced the upcoming events of Chicago PCG while Deputy Consul General Romulo Victor M. Israel, Jr. delivered the closing remarks. A fellowship reception ended the evening.