ALFONSO, CAVITE — In the quiet hills of Alfonso, where coffee meets canvas and creativity finds room to breathe, a new exhibition is putting Filipino sculpture in the spotlight. The "Southbound" Sculpture Group Exhibition is running from November 8 to December 17, 2026, at Leba'jo Art x Café in Sinaliw Malaki, Alfonso, Cavite. Presented and collaborated by Lebabo Art Gallery and Alitaptap Recreational Hub, the exhibition celebrates Filipino sculpture and the creative works of Caviteño artists.
A Venue Rooted in Artistic Legacy
Leba'jo Art x Café isn't just a café; it is a destination for art lovers. Owned and operated by the family of Raul Lebajo—a recognized pioneer of Environmental Surrealism whose career spans over five decades—the café is part of the Lebajo ArtFarm, which includes a two-story art studio and gallery featuring contemporary Philippine art and rotating artist showcases. His sons, Gio and Nikulas Lebajo, manage and curate the café, ensuring that the space remains a living, breathing part of Cavite's art community. The café has hosted exhibitions before, including the group show "MITHI: Chasing well intended effort," which brought together six artists working across painting, sculpture, and mixed media, making it a fitting home for "Southbound."
A Partnership That Nurtures Local Creativity
Alitaptap Recreational Hub is a familiar name in Cavite's cultural landscape. The Alitaptap Artists Community in Amadeo has been featured in provincial art initiatives, including the Cavite Day Art Fair organized by the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office. The community's commitment to nurturing local creativity aligns perfectly with the spirit of "Southbound," which aims to give sculptors a dedicated platform and give audiences a chance to experience art in three dimensions. This collaboration between established galleries and grassroots artist communities reflects the collaborative spirit that defines Cavite's creative economy.
Why This Matters for Cavite's Art Scene
Sculpture is often overshadowed by painting in the Philippine art scene, and exhibitions like "Southbound" provide a much-needed space for this art form to shine. For Cavite, it is another sign that the province's creative economy is thriving. From Alfonso to Amadeo, artists are finding spaces to show their work, build community, and invite the public into their world. If you are in Cavite this season, take a drive to Alfonso, grab a coffee at Leba'jo Art x Café, walk through the gallery, and spend time with the sculptures of "Southbound." For updates and visitor guidelines, check the Cavite Tourism Facebook Page.
