CEBU CITY — Filipino visual artist David Semacio Benaldo Jr. has opened his latest exhibition at the Main Lobby of Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino. Known as "The Architect of the Breakthrough," Benaldo showcases a collection of mixed-media works that blend acrylic, resin, and crystal on canvas. The exhibition runs from October 8 to 22, 2026.
A Dream Realized Through Faith
For Benaldo, the exhibition represents a meaningful milestone in a journey that began during his college days. His heartfelt gratitude goes to Waterfront Hotel for providing a platform where his artworks can be appreciated by visitors. He described the opportunity as a dream come true and expressed hope that it marks the beginning of more beautiful opportunities to share his art with the world.
The artist attributes his success to divine providence. "All Glory belongs to God always and forever," he wrote in a social media post. His journey reflects a deep trust in a higher purpose, guiding him through uncertainties and doubts that accompanied his decision to pursue art full-time.
From Corporate Draftsman to Full-Time Artist
Benaldo's path was not without sacrifice. After graduating, he pursued a corporate career as a draftsman in a private company. He was grateful for the opportunity and the valuable lessons it taught him. However, city life came with expenses, responsibilities, and sacrifices that eventually left him longing for something more.
Deep inside, he knew he was called to something different. For many years, painting had been more than a passion—it served as his bread and butter, helping support his family from his student days until adulthood. Through every season of his life, art remained a part of him, a way to express thoughts, tell stories, and turn emotions into something meaningful.
A Leap of Faith and a New Partnership
Benaldo made one of the biggest decisions of his life: he left his corporate job to pursue the path his heart had always longed for. There were uncertainties, what-ifs, doubts, and fears about what would happen next. But he held on to his faith and trusted God to provide.
His decision led him to apply for a position in real estate, where he met Feljoy Baran Osores. Instead of simply becoming a real estate consultant, this person became a partner in his art journey. Osores saw value in his paintings and recognized that he had much more to offer.
Art That Tells Stories and Awakens Emotions
Benaldo wants his paintings to be more than decorations on a wall. He aspires for them to tell stories, awaken emotions, inspire hope, and remind people to keep going even when life becomes difficult. He hopes someone will look at his artwork and discover something deeper within themselves—a memory they have forgotten, a hope they thought they had lost, or a quiet reminder that healing and growth are always possible.
For him, art is not only about what the eyes can see but also about what the heart can feel. This philosophy drives every piece he creates, infusing his work with emotional depth and meaning that resonates with viewers on a personal level.
An Invitation to Experience the Breakthrough
Art enthusiasts and curious visitors are invited to experience Benaldo's works up close at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino. The exhibition offers a chance to step into a world where creativity takes shape and every piece tells a story. Admission is open to the public during hotel hours.
For Benaldo, this is more than a career change. It is a leap of faith, a dream carried for years, and the beginning of something greater. He describes himself as a visual artist, a storyteller through paintings, and a dreamer who chooses to trust God's plan. The journey has just begun.
