BACOLOD City — A new cultural landmark now stands in Sagay City following the unveiling of a 30-meter commemorative mural honoring the life, works, and legacy of renowned Sagaynon artist Nunelucio “Nune” Alvarado on May 5, coinciding with his 76th birth anniversary.
Located at the historic Amparo Private Cemetery in Barangay Old Sagay, the mural serves not only as a tribute to one of Negros Occidental’s most influential visual artists but also as a symbol of the city’s growing commitment to preserving art, heritage, and cultural identity.
The large-scale artwork was initiated as a family tribute and realized through a collaboration among Syano Artlink, the Alvarado family, Mortabond, Steine Paints, and the Sagay City Government.
Featuring some of Alvarado’s most celebrated works — including the Nawong Series, Kaupdanan sa Kampo, Lain Buot, Kaubay, Siga Mata, and Hudhud — the mural reflects the themes of identity, social struggle, community, and human experience that defined his artistic journey.
Designed around the concept of “Diin Tabo Man,” or a point of convergence, the mural symbolizes the meeting of life from land and sea, mirroring the cultural and social realities often portrayed in Alvarado’s art.
Artists Tom Alvarado, Burog Alvarado, Gerome Booc, and Ryan Pesa spearheaded the mural’s creation, transforming Alvarado’s body of work into a public art installation accessible to residents and visitors alike.
Nelly Rodriguez-Laningin, representing the Rodriguez family, said the mural stands as a lasting tribute to Alvarado’s contribution to social justice, culture, and the arts. She noted that the site itself carries historical significance as one of the oldest family cemeteries in Sagay and the resting place of the artist’s father.
Tom Alvarado, brother of the late artist, shared that the project had long been envisioned and became possible through the support of private sponsors and community partners.
“This project shows how art and culture can be sustained through collective effort and shared vision,” he said.
Sagay City Councilor Benson Fernandez revealed that the city government is moving to officially recognize May 5 as “Nunelucio Alvarado Day” in Barangay Old Sagay, describing the mural as both a cultural tribute and a tourism asset deeply rooted in local identity.
Renowned artist Charlie Co also paid tribute to Alvarado’s enduring influence, saying his works continue to inspire generations of artists and communities beyond Sagay.
Mayor Leo Rafael “Bebo” Cueva said the mural strengthens Sagay’s identity as a center for culture and creative expression while inspiring younger generations to value local artistry.
“When we speak of Sagay, his name always comes up. He is someone we are proud of not only because he is known, but because of the conviction he expressed through his art,” Cueva said.
The mayor emphasized that the mural now serves as a new landmark for the city and a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
“Having a landmark like this makes a difference. It shows our young people that an artist from Sagay can make an impact, and it reminds us to value the work of our artists,” he added.
Representatives from Steine Paints, one of the project’s major supporters, also expressed hope that more initiatives promoting Filipino artistry and heritage would emerge in the future.
The unveiling ceremony concluded with the turnover of a commemorative marker and the formal presentation of the mural attended by local officials, artists, project partners, and members of the Alvarado family.
City officials said the project not only honors the legacy of Nunelucio Alvarado but also reinforces Sagay City’s position as a growing destination for culture, heritage tourism, and creative community development./PN
