Heritage advocates in Silay City, Negros Occidental, have made a public appeal to help track down a stolen painting by National Artist Fernando Amorsolo. The painting, titled “Mango Harvesters” (1936), was reported missing from the Hofileña Museum after it hosted two batches of tourists on July 3. This alarming incident has spurred local efforts to recover the invaluable piece of Filipino cultural heritage.
The theft was publicly announced in a Facebook post by Silay Heritage on July 5. The group highlighted the significance of the stolen painting and called on the community to assist in its recovery. “Please help in the recovery of this important piece of art,” the post urged, alongside contact information for the local police. The prompt dissemination of this information underscores the urgency and gravity of the situation.
“Mango Harvesters,” a small yet significant artwork measuring 12 x 18 inches, is part of the Hofileña Museum’s prized collection. The painting was owned by the Hofileña family and was a cherished part of the collection of the late Ramon Hofileña. Ramon Hofileña was a prominent figure in Negros Occidental, renowned for his dedication to art and heritage conservation. Often referred to as the “Father of Heritage Conservation” in Silay, his legacy is deeply intertwined with the preservation of Filipino cultural artifacts.
The theft of “Mango Harvesters” is not just a loss for the Hofileña family but for the broader cultural heritage of the Philippines. Fernando Amorsolo, celebrated for his mastery in capturing the rural landscape and everyday life of Filipinos, holds a special place in the country’s art history. His works are not only artistically significant but also culturally resonant, depicting scenes that embody the spirit and identity of the Filipino people.
The Hofileña Museum, a private museum known for its extensive collection of art and antiques, has long been a cultural landmark in Silay City. The museum’s loss of the Amorsolo painting represents a significant blow to its collection and the city’s cultural heritage. The incident has prompted increased security measures and a reevaluation of how priceless artworks are protected during public tours.
In response to the theft, local police have launched an investigation, and heritage advocates are hopeful that the public’s awareness and vigilance will aid in the painting’s recovery. The community’s support is crucial in these efforts, as the stolen artwork could potentially be moved or sold discreetly.
The call to action by Silay Heritage is a poignant reminder of the importance of collective effort in preserving cultural heritage. The loss of “Mango Harvesters” has rallied not only local advocates but also art enthusiasts and cultural guardians nationwide. As efforts to recover the painting continue, the incident underscores the enduring value of art in connecting communities and preserving history.