SURIGAO CITY — Aspiring and established Surigaonon artists are being invited by the City Government of Surigao to take part in the Florentino “Jun” Impas Painting Contest 2026 on September 8, 2026, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the City Cultural Center. The competition aims to provide local artists with a venue to express their creativity while highlighting Surigao City's culture, heritage, and distinctive character. Named after renowned Filipino realist painter Florentino “Jun” Impas, the contest also seeks to honor his artistic legacy while giving emerging talents an opportunity to share their stories through visual art and compete for cash prizes.
Honoring a Surigaonon Artistic Legacy
Florentino “Jun” Impas, the artist after whom the competition is named, is an internationally recognized Filipino visual artist whose artistic career was shaped in Surigao City. Born in Danao City, Cebu, Impas grew up in Surigao and supported himself in his early years by producing posters and billboards for local movie theaters. His dedication and talent eventually brought him recognition in major art competitions, where he became a consistent finalist and winner, including the Martino Abellana Annual Art Competition and the Fernando Amorsolo Painting Competition. His rise from humble beginnings to international recognition serves as an inspiration to artists pursuing their own creative journeys. By carrying his name, the painting contest highlights the city's efforts to encourage local artistic talent and promote art as an important expression of cultural identity.
Paint, Tell a Story, and Take Home a Prize
Contestants are encouraged to use their preferred medium to create works that reflect their interpretation of Surigao. Through their paintings, participants can present their perspectives, experiences, and stories while capturing the city's character and spirit. The competition will award PHP5,000 to the first runner-up, PHP3,000 to the second runner-up, and PHP2,000 to the third runner-up. Ten additional artists will also receive consolation prizes worth PHP1,000 each. Artists interested in joining the competition may register online through the designated registration link. The event offers local talents an opportunity not only to compete but also to contribute to the continuing celebration of Surigao's artistic and cultural identity.
