MAKATI CITY — Art, food, and heritage are set to converge at the Yuchengco Museum on October 9, 2026, for a one-of-a-kind cultural experience titled “Through the Lens & to the Table.” Running from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the 3F Yuchengco Museum, the event brings together photography, handmade pottery, and a curated culinary tasting, all centered on the Cordillera region. It offers participants a rare chance to engage with the landscapes, traditions, and enduring relationship between the highland communities and rice. The program is part of the museum’s October line-up under the banner “A Month of Encounters,” celebrating Museums and Galleries Month.
The Cordillera Through a Photographer’s Eye
The afternoon opens with a talk by Noli Gabilo, a celebrated Batanes-born documentary and landscape photographer. He will present “The Cordillera Rice Culture: How I Photograph It,” drawing from his extensive engagement with the region and its communities. Gabilo’s photographs are known for their evocative quality, capturing both the grandeur of the highlands and the quiet rhythms of daily life. His work will be placed in dialogue with the ceramic pieces of Joey de Castro, whose handcrafted vessels reflect the forms and textures of the Cordillera. Together, the photography and pottery create a layered portrait of the region, one that honors both its visual splendor and its material culture.
A Culinary Tasting Rooted in Heritage
Following the talk, the internationally recognized Toyo Eatery will present a special tasting featuring Tinawon heirloom rice, a treasured variety preserved by Ifugao communities for generations. The rice will be served in De Castro’s handmade pottery pieces, specifically his Tinawon bowls, which are inspired by Cordillera landscapes. This pairing transforms the meal into a meditation on the practices of looking, making, and sharing. Toyo Eatery is celebrated for its hyper-local sourcing and its commitment to showcasing the depth of Philippine cuisine, making it an ideal partner for this convergence of art and agriculture. The tasting underscores the vital role of heirloom rice in Cordillera identity and the importance of sustaining traditional farming practices.
An Invitation to Slow Down and Connect
“Through the Lens & to the Table” is designed for those who wish to engage with art and culture in a deeply personal way. Limited tickets are available, with rates at ₱1,450 for regular admission and ₱1,160 for discounted categories. The event takes place at the Yuchengco Museum, located at RCBC Plaza, corner Ayala Avenue and Senator Gil J. Puyat Avenue in Makati City. For residents and visitors alike, it is an opportunity to slow down, appreciate the craftsmanship behind every object and every grain, and reflect on the profound connections between land, culture, and community.
