In honor of National Heritage Month, the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai is set to host the fifth edition of its flagship cultural initiative, Museo sa Konsulado, featuring the works of acclaimed Filipino architect and watercolor artist Edcel Cabalan. The exhibit will take place on May 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Consulate’s Rizal Hall.
This year’s exhibit spotlights Cabalan’s Philippine Heritage Collection, a series of impressionist architectural paintings that vividly capture the essence of cultural landmarks and traditional streetscapes both from the Philippines and abroad. Known for his ability to convey movement and emotion through intricate watercolor techniques, Cabalan’s work stands as a powerful representation of cultural preservation.
Cabalan’s journey as an artist is nothing short of remarkable. Despite losing vision in his right eye, his passion for art remains unshaken. His paintings, marked by meticulous detail and atmospheric depth, have earned international recognition, including awards and exhibitions in the UAE, USA, Europe, and beyond. One of his notable achievements is designing the official logo commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the UAE. Cabalan is a finalist at The Global Filipino Icon Awards 2025, recognized for his outstanding global impact as a Filipino artist.
Consul General Marford Angeles expressed his enthusiasm for the exhibit, emphasizing Cabalan’s dedication to celebrating Filipino culture through art. “The Consulate is honored to host Mr. Edcel Cabalan in this meaningful celebration,” he said. “His art reflects a profound commitment to culture and community. This installation deepens our appreciation of the past while inspiring future expressions of freedom and creativity—core values of our Labindalawa campaign.”