With the fourth episode of The Philippine Online Student Tiangge (The POSTiangge) being on “Digital Services and Art Commissions,” two artists were featured during the live program on the 20th of November at 4:00 PM. This episode follows the last featuring “Accessories and Cosmetics” business owners.

The first guest was Leobert ‘Leo’ Mazo. Hailing from Cavite, Leo is a 21-year-old currently studying journalism at the Cavite State University. Additionally, he is a novice graphic designer and layout artist who started offering his services online quite recently.

Although Leo didn’t grow up skilled in drawing, he always had a passion for exploring different art forms. He started with photography and videography until he eventually encountered working with applications and software used for graphic design during high school.

With this ‘flame’—this passion for art already in him—he set out to develop a new skill during the height of the lockdown. Graphic design proved to be something he not only enjoyed; it was also a profitable endeavor.

He shared that during his internship, he was able to accumulate finished designs that helped him jumpstart his posting and building a portfolio online. He now promotes his services on Facebook, Instagram, and Behance. The name of his page is Visualz by Leo. He shared that he thought of this branding to set himself apart in this growing industry. He is also working to develop his distinct style so that his works become more and more recognizable as his own.

A struggle Leo faced before involved with the technological resources he needed to pursue graphic design. After all, if one would like to develop skills in digital art, layouting, and graphic design, you would need at least a capable laptop and a software you can use. Leo, being the “Creative Altar Boy of Cavite,” found his prayers answered when he received a laptop from a helping hand. With the support he has been receiving, especially from family, friends, and clients, he hopes to continue improving as a graphic designer.

The next guest was Emmanuel ‘Emman’ Mabagos, a budding illustrator from San Juan City. Emman is currently working for the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as a Registry Coordinator of the Philippine Registry of Cultural Property.

Intriguingly, the course Emman took in college is one that does not exactly align with his career now. A graduate of AB Foreign Service Major in Diplomacy, Emman admitted that he took this course in respect to his parents’ wishes. However, he does attribute the current perspective and worldview they have now to this course he took.

Emman shared that he has been talented in drawing ever since childhood, proven by his ability to draw without a reference early on. It was always a craft he wanted to work on and improve. Despite taking an unrelated course, Emman was able to continue developing this talent for art through joining an organization in college. His involvement here helped in encouraging him to continue pursuing art.

Emman shared that the important thing is to just keep practicing your craft and keeping your passion alive since you never really know where life will take you. He also spoke on his creative process and art style. Emman prefers sticking to organic shapes and drawing people with a likeness to reality but he also adapts to different styles depending on what the current project calls for.

One of Emman’s latest projects is a children’s book. Emman illustrated Ang Kuwento ni Adam at Noah: Coloring Storybook written by Dr. Arielle Dado which is currently available on Shopee. Like Leo, Emman is also open for commissions and can be found on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok as @eamabagos.

During the joint question and answer portion, the two artists shared more about their experience as creatives and working with clients. Make sure to check out their social media and their artworks! Let us support our local artists.

In wrapping up its fourth episode, The POSTiangge is down to its finale for the first season. We have heard awe-inspiring stories of passion and perseverance so far and the final episode is no exception. The last episode special will air on the 27th of November, 4:00 PM, at The Philippine Online Student Tambayan Facebook page. Remember to stay tuned and support local, mga katambay!

This event is co-presented by:
PUP Junior Financial Executives
Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers Mapúa University Student Chapter
PUP Peer Facilitators Association
Ang Suga Publication (Cebu Normal University)
Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants – LCUP

Media partners:
LPU Laguna – Junior Philippine Association of Management Accountants (JPAMA)
DLSU Ang Pahayagang Plaridel

Sponsors:
Meralco
San Miguel Corporation