Mano Mano Arts and Crafts Expo
     Cebu is blessed with a rich and vibrant tradition of handicrafts in exquisite forms. When one would think about art expos and exhibits, two-dimensional art forms often come to mind, but in today's modern world where everything is almost instant, it's time to put artisan art in the spotlight. Apart from their aesthetic value, handicraft products serve as a new way to promote our local tourism, reconnect with our culture, and empower artists. These are the rendezvous points of holding the first-ever Mano Mano Arts and Crafts Expo. 

     Spearheaded and styled by Cebu local fashion advocate Dexter Alazas, the event will bring together Cebuano local artists and artisans under the same roof. This event is presented by Soltana Nature Residences and Events at Soltana in celebration of Lapu Lapu's historical battle in Mactan. 

    The expo is dubbed as Mano Mano which hails from the Visayan word kinamot which directly translates to by hand.  An apt title since the Battle of Mactan was a victory won by the strength of our ancestors fighting together hand and hand. The battle of Cebuanos today, especially in a time of crisis, still requires us to work hand in hand. This includes our fight to keep our local arts and crafts alive. 

     "This is the time for our supportive localites (art enthusiasts) to show their love for local products and support its makers especially those who use indigenous materials. I'm hoping this will be an annual event" Dexter Alazas shared.

     The event primarily aims to support the craftsmen of Cebu in different industries including, but not limited to, painting, tattoo, makeup, weaving, sewing, accessories making, and home decor and furniture design. It also seeks to create a reliable database of artists, suppliers, and manufacturers that one may use for research and development.

    The event will happen on April 16 up to the 30th. The main gathering will take place on the 17th at 5pm wherein exhibitors can meet up to show their products and present their portfolio to VIP guests, tourism officers of Lapu Lapu City, and Cebuano media. An awarding and recognition ceremony will wrap up the event on April 25 .
   Althrough the event, ongoers can expect an array of artisan goods from Cebu's artists such as Jean Govinda, Ryan Roy Barral, and Bhava Mitra. Mano Mano will also feature the Amano Craft Creations of Dexter ALazas and the livelihood products of BJMP (Bureau of Jail Management and Penology) inmates from Lapu Lapu, Mandaue, Naga, and Cebu City. An informative Art and  Culture Talk on Ancient Filipino Script with artists  Bhava Mitra and Govinda Jean will take place on Sunday, April 18th, 2pm.

   Mano Mano Arts and Crafts Expo beckons Alazas' advocacy together with Soltana relating to its works on corporate social responsibility. This event is also one of Taft East Gate's CSR in promoting local SME's and community development by providing the right venue to sell their products, and exchange ideas with artists and artisans alike. The expo also serves as an open house for those who are looking for a resort-style condo in Mactan with Taft Properties' commitment to offering leisure and lifestyle living. Raffle prizes await all guests and attendees.

   The event is made possible through the efforts and support of Lapu Lapu City first lady and tourism chair Cindi King Chan.

     Save the dates and witness Cebuano artworks and products done by hand at the Mano Mano Arts & Crafts Expo at Events at Soltana, Basak Lapu Lapu City. The expo is open from April 16-30, 2021. The expo will be held at the Events at Soltana Tent which will open its doors from 9am to 8pm. 

Interested exhibitor? Contact Dexter Alazas at 09270595171 for information. 

Mano Mano Arts and Crafts Expo
Mano Mano Arts and Crafts Expo
Mano Mano Arts and Crafts Expo
Mano Mano Arts and Crafts Expo
Mano Mano Arts and Crafts Expo
Mano Mano Arts and Crafts Expo
Mano Mano Arts and Crafts Expo