For all the controversy Philippine art has gone through in recent weeks, none can deny the art scene has been vibrant and alive. This was proven again during the recent ManilArt 2011 at the NBC Tent in Bonifacio Global City.

The official Philippine international art fair has once again brought together under one roof artists, art collectors, and basically just about anyone and everyone who wants to be anywhere close to be considered artsy.

With 24 galleries showing off the best they have to offer for this annual event, many visitors were, indeed, impressed, and, apparently, so too was the guest of honor during the gala opening, newly proclaimed Sen. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel, that he made a proclamation of his own stating there would be more support for ManilArt from government.

Also present were Department of Education Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro; Makati Rep. Abigail Binay-Campos; Department of Education Undersecretary Alberto Muyot; National Commission for Culture and the Arts chair Felipe de Leon; and NCCA commissioner Regalado Trota José, also the archivist of the University of Santo Tomas.

The night started off quite unexpectedly, as an apparent misunderstanding about the program proper caused a commotion. It was not enough, however, to deter the mood of the evening, as everything from that point on flowed as smoothly as the movements of Dance Forum founder Myra Beltran as she interpreted Elmer Borlongan’s “Batang Edsa.”

It is apparent the festival continues to draw visitors by the flock and it should only prove that, controversy or not, Philippine art remains vibrant.

Amy Loste of Gallery Nine echoes this sentiment in saying that, with the continuous support of the Philippines’ government institutions, private sectors, and the corporate world, ManilArt should remain strong in the coming years.

ManilArt 2011 was organized by the Bonafide Art Galleries Organization (Bago) in cooperation with the NCCA. It was supported by Allied Bank and Philippine National Bank.