ILOILO — Iloilo's thriving creative community takes center stage this October as the Iloilo Arts Festival 2026 transforms Iloilo Business Park into a month-long showcase of music, dance, visual arts, film, and culture. Among the most anticipated highlights is the V-Boy Collection by internationally acclaimed Ilonggo singer Jed Madela.
A Different Side of Jed Madela
Madela, known globally for his vocal prowess, reveals another dimension of his artistry through the V-Boy Mad Madd World collection. This blind box series features original art toys personally designed by the award-winning artist, blending imagination, personality, and playful creativity into collectible pieces.
The V-Boy Collection invites audiences to experience Madela's artistic vision beyond the stage. Each blind box holds a unique character, making every unboxing a small surprise. The collection is on display at the Ground Floor of Festive Walk Iloilo throughout the festival.
Opening the Festival with Music and Art
The celebration opens on October 3 with Madela taking the stage for a special musical performance. This live appearance gives fans a chance to witness his artistry in two forms: through song and through visual expression. It sets a vibrant tone for the weeks ahead.
Presented by Iloilo Business Park together with the Iloilo City Government, the festival carries the theme "Panan-awan," a Hiligaynon word meaning perspective or one's way of seeing. The theme encourages audiences to view art through diverse lenses.
Honoring Agnes Locsin and Ilonggo Cinema
On October 17, the festival honors National Artist for Dance Agnes Locsin with "Dance Is My Life." The retrospective exhibition celebrates her distinguished career through archival photographs, costumes, and multimedia materials. It traces her evolution and the artistic legacy she continues to build.
From October 14 to 18, Festive Walk Cinema hosts the Ilonggo Cinema Festival, presenting 37 Ilonggo films. Filmmakers and artists including Joey Reyes, Jo Andrew Torlao, Kevin Pison Piamonte, and Gabby Padilla join the celebration. The event spotlights the region's growing filmmaking talent.
Visual Arts and Creative Workshops
At ILOMOCA's Hulot Gallery, "BREATHE" by photographer Dr. Malbar G. Ferrer captures Iloilo's landscapes, people, and everyday life. Festive Walk Iloilo hosts "Tan-aw: Interactive Visual Art," while "Tan-aw: Art Projection" transforms Parksquare at Casa de Emperador into a canvas for large-scale visual displays.
The festival also celebrates craftsmanship through wood carving, watercolor, and block-printing workshops. "Habi Noir: The Ilonggo Fashion Affair" on October 23 features designers Totong Gellangarin, Yepyep Mesina, Doddie Vril Tan, John Lee Betita, Jeff Ticao, and Jun G. Candelario. A food fair at Festive Walk Parade completes the month-long celebration.
A Platform for Ilonggo Creativity
As Iloilo City's Center of Arts and Culture, Iloilo Business Park continues providing a platform for artists, cultural institutions, and audiences. Home to ILOMOCA and the Emperador Brandy Museum, the township strengthens Iloilo's creative landscape by bringing art and heritage closer to the community.
The V-Boy Collection by Jed Madela exemplifies how Ilonggo artists cross boundaries and explore new forms. His blind box series adds a fresh, collectible dimension to the festival. It invites audiences to discover art that is accessible, joyful, and deeply personal.
