The Cebuano Arts Club, a group of professional artists dedicated to helping survivors of abuse and exploitation through art, has recently unveiled a mural at the Home for Girls facility.
The mounted mural, which measures 12 meters wide and 4 meters high, symbolizes hope and healing, reflecting HFG’s commitment to supporting its residents to recover from trauma through creative expression.
The mural, completed in four days, involved 34 residents who supported the seven lead artists and contributed to its creation. Their participation highlighted their talents and marked a meaningful step in their healing journeys.
The mural concept evolved from the idea about emotional and mental well-being of children—calm, serene, and inspired by nature. It features flowing water, an open sky, lush greenery, and mountains, all of which evoke peace and a sense of safety.
According to Mamerto Gubalane, president of the Cebuano Arts Club, the mural is a reflective space where the girls can sit, observe, and find comfort in the nature-inspired artwork. “This mural has been a dream for both the management of HFG and our club members. We were thrilled when it was finally given the green light. Seeing it now in full view, we feel fulfilled knowing it will be part of the girls’ everyday environment,” he shared.
Guided by the club’s mission, “Driven by Passion, Teaching by Heart,” the Cebuano Arts Club has been a steadfast partner of HFG for nearly six years, offering art-based interventions that support emotional healing and creativity. These include foundational art lessons, canvas painting, batik printing on t-shirts, face painting, and pottery painting—all designed to encourage self-expression and aid them in their recovery.
As part of their ongoing advocacy, the club conducts three to four art therapy sessions annually at HFG, freely sharing their time, talent, and resources.
Center Head Jennifer S. Abastillas emphasized the significant role of art in the girls’ healing. “For these girls who have suffered trauma from sexual abuse, creative expression through art becomes an integral part of their emotional recovery,” she said.
She also expressed deep appreciation for the club’s support. “We’re truly grateful that our vision of having a mural inside the center has come to life. The club members have been incredibly generous, donating all the materials and sharing their time, effort, and talents completely free of charge.”
In addition to their work with HFG, the Cebuano Arts Club has also created murals for another DSWD-7 center, the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) of the Reception and Study Center for Children, continuing their mission to use art as a tool for healing. ###