GINGOOG CITY, Misamis Oriental (PIA) — The city’s GASAYUDA 2025, a local celebration of the National Arts Month showcasing various local artistry and cultural heritage through various competitions, culminates with a photo and arts exhibit showcasing the winning artworks from the past four years.
The GASAYUDA 2025 Photo and Art Exhibit formally opened, February 25, at the Gaisano Grand Mall Gingoog and ran through February 28.
Gingoog City Mayor Erick Cañosa recognizes the artists contribution to the city’s arts and culture scene through the City Tourism Office under the leadership of City Tourism Officer Audie Cornelio S. Ocampo, in close collaboration with the Gingoog Association of Artists (GASA), the Photographers Organization in Gingoog (POGI), and the Indigenous Cultural Communities.
Also gracing the occasion were Gingoog City Heritage, Culture, and Arts Council Chairperson Maggie Gudella Zapanta-Tse, Gingoog City Tourism Development Council Representative Leo Pollentes, POGI President Jong Almonia and VP Rodin Zia, and IP Coordinator Rose Mandahinog.
The event was further honored by the presence of NCIP-Gingoog Head Ms. Kenjie R. Baduco and DepEd-Gingoog SGOD Chief Dr. Joy Cirunay-Nambatac.
Highlighting local artistry and cultural heritage, GASAYUDA 2025 showcased talent through various competitions.
The city honored the winners of the 4D Street Art contest, with Jemar L. Abay as the champion, Cinderela A. Diche in second place, and Jan Rafael F. Namoc in third place.
While the photography contest awardees are Kim Carl M. Villarampa, who won first place; Titus Blain T. Cernias in second place; and John Gilbert M. Torobia in third place.
GASAYUDA 2025’s Beads Making Skills Contest winners are Luz M. Sera as Champion, Evelyn Bete, and Elfred P. Salingsing as second and third place, respectively.
Cañosa underscored the vital role of local artists in shaping the city’s identity and promoting its beauty.
“Our artists are not just creators; they are storytellers who bring Gingoog’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant traditions to life. Through their artistry, they showcase the soul of our city and inspire both locals and visitors to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us,” said Cañosa.
He added that the local government will continue to support and celebrate their talent as they are key to preserving Gingoog’s heritage and true cultural destination.
The Photo and Arts Exhibit is open to the public, offering a visual journey through four years of artistic excellence in Gingoog City. The city government, together with its partners, remains committed to promoting local artistry, preserving cultural heritage, and providing platforms for creative expression.
For more information about GASAYUDA 2025 and future cultural events, one may contact the City Tourism Office. (Gingoog City Tourism Office/PIA-10/Misamis Oriental)
