The Manila Hotel’s iconic Grand Lobby came alive on April 8, 2025, as it hosted the grand opening of HATCH Emergence: A Fusion of Filipino Street Art—a bold and imaginative exhibit that merges creativity with innovation. The opening reception was met with great enthusiasm, drawing a crowd of art lovers, creatives, and culture shapers.
Among the distinguished guests were Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., president of The Manila Hotel; Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing; Assistant Secretary Sharlene Zabala Batin of the Department of Tourism, who also serves as Regional Director for the NCR; along with respected members of the media and prominent content creators who joined the celebration of Filipino artistic expression.
This year’s HATCH marks a historic first with its theme focused entirely on Filipino street artists—continuing the tradition of spotlighting local talent and elevating urban and collectible art to new heights. The exhibit ties in beautifully with the hotel’s 2025 Easter celebration, “Easter at the EGGmerald City,” offering a unique blend of art and festivity.
At the core of the exhibit are meticulously hand-painted acrylic eggs, reimagined by a powerhouse roster of artists. These egg sculptures channel the vibrancy of street art, pop culture influences, urban storytelling, and toy-inspired design—creating a dynamic display that reflects the evolution of Filipino art and its growing global reach.
Featured artists include both acclaimed and rising names in the scene: Jade Suayan, Trip63, Creon Chkn, Blic, Exld Manila, Distort Monsters, Gerilya (Jano and Mar Gonzales), Wesley Valenzuela, Isobel Francisco, Lianne Steffi Lim, Reen Barrera, Egg Fiasco, and Quiccs. Each artwork reveals the artist’s signature flair and vision, celebrating the diversity and depth of contemporary local artistry.
“Our goal is to create spaces that not only showcase Filipino creativity but also inspire deeper appreciation for urban and collectible art,” shared Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.
More than just a visual showcase, HATCH Emergence is a creative platform that encourages bold artistic exploration and new perspectives. With each edition, it reaffirms its role in pushing the boundaries of Philippine art and connecting artists with broader audiences.
HATCH Emergence runs until May 2, 2025, at The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby. Admission is free. Visitors may also purchase limited-edition HATCH postcards and stickers at M Gift Shop.
For more details, contact +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or email info@themanilahotel.com.
