On March 25, 2026, the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel buzzed with energy as notable guests, artists, media representatives, and content creators assembled for the opening of HATCH 2026. This event marked the 8th edition of Manila Bulletin’s leading art exhibition, hosted in collaboration with The Manila Hotel.
Inspirational words from The Manila Hotel president, Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr.
Under the theme “Contemporary Visions, Timeless Setting,” HATCH 2026 connects heritage with modern creativity. The event features 12 emerging Filipino artists, each tasked with reinterpreting the iconic acrylic egg as a powerful symbol of storytelling, identity, and imagination.
Against the historic setting of The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby, the opening reception formally unveiled this year’s featured artists to the public: Marko Belo, Dino Blanco, Norman Blanco, Rachel Anne Lacaba, Jao Mapa, Raf Page, Tokwa Penaflorida, JP Pining, Angelo Roxas, Alber Tabanao, Rene Tolentino, and Krishnamurti.
The event was attended by Mr. Basilio C. Yap, chairman of the board of The Manila Hotel; Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, vice chairman of The Manila Hotel and president of the Manila Bulletin; Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., president of The Manila Hotel; Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel; and Leslie Araujo, brand and marketing manager of the Manila Bulletin and project lead of HATCH 2026, along with members of the media and content creators.
During his speech, Marvin Kim Tan stated, “What started as a simple platform to highlight new ideas has evolved into a significant space promoting creativity and rising talent. We are delighted to support this initiative and its community that has grown over the years. Our gratitude goes to Manila Bulletin for their ongoing partnership, and to the 12 artists featured this year. When Ernest Hemingway visited in 1941, he said, ‘It’s a good story if it’s like The Manila Hotel.’ May this year’s exhibit in our Grand Lobby become another memorable story.”
HATCH Contemporary Visions, Timeless Setting is on display at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel until May 2, 2026. Admission is free.
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Stacie Harris is a local resident and reporter of the Maple Grove area. Stacie reports on medicine and science for the Maple Grove Report.
