Since 1984, the Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI), through the annual Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE), has put a premium on Filipino visual arts by recognizing the creative expression of the most passionate and persistent up-and-comers in the Philippine art scene.

At the start of the year, the Foundation ensured that all the necessary preparations for the 36th year of MADE were met. Information campaigns, lectures and exhibitions were held in some parts of the country to invite visual artists to join the Painting and Sculpture Recognition Programs.

In the midst of these preparations, we suddenly find ourselves battling the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. We took the necessary measures and followed protocols in containing the spread of the virus. This led to the cancellation of the remaining Art MADE Public events in Angono, Rizal and Davao City last March. While most regions have been placed under Enhanced Community Quarantine, the deadline of submission of entries was also extended to June 6, 2020 to allow aspiring entrants to better cope up with the situation.

While alternative solutions were considered to address our implementation challenges, our continuous monitoring of our national situation has brought us to a difficult decision to defer the 2020 MADE Painting and Sculpture Recognition Programs. We deemed it appropriate that this is the most responsible decision in this unprecedented time.

We acknowledge the hard work of everyone who already submitted their entries prior to this decision. Rest assured that all entries we received electronically will be automatically considered when the right time for MADE to return comes. We will still accept entries until June 6, 2020 to accommodate those who already started their artworks and would still opt to submit an entry before the deadline.

MBFI is one with the nation in addressing this health crisis. As in any time of need, it has always been our utmost priority to continuously look for opportunities to create a positive social impact on our stakeholders and beneficiaries and the whole nation in general.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to support the art community despite the uncertainties we are experiencing. The Foundation will continuously look for alternative endeavors which we hope to implement soonest.

Should you have other questions regarding this decision, please message us through all our social media accounts.
You may also send an email to madecompetition2020@gmail.com.

MBFI is praying for everyone to remain healthy and safe. We thank you for your continued support and understanding.

Tags: 2020 Press Releases