Security Bank Corporation formally turns over 14 sculptures of 1973 National Artist for Sculpture, Guillermo Tolentino, to the National Museum of the Philippines as it re-introduces the newly renovated Security Bank Hall at the National Museum of Fine Arts in Manila City during a cocktail celebration on September 24, 2022.

These 14 sculptures were previously loaned by the Bank as part of Gallery XII – Eskultor ng Lahing Filipino:  Honoring the Life and Work of Guillermo Tolentino, a permanent exhibition, which opened in July 2013.

“The National Museum of the Philippines is grateful to Security Bank for donating 14 sculptures of 1973 National Artist for Sculpture, Guillermo Tolentino. These sculptures are part of the country’s history and have become a symbol of excellence for many artists not only here in the Philippines, but also abroad. We hope that more Filipinos will visit the museum and witness first-hand the exquisite work and style of one of the country’s best,” says National Museum Director Jeremy Barns.

Guillermo Tolentino was born in 1890 and was named as the National Artist of the Philippines for Sculpture in 1973, three years before his death. Tolentino along with fellow National Artist and painter Fernando Amorsolo, dominated the Philippine art scene from the 1930s to the 1950s. He followed the classical style and mainly used plaster and metal to create his art pieces.

The 14 sculptures donated by the Bank to the National Museum of Fine Arts include: Model of the Commonwealth Triumphal, Bust of President Manuel Roxas, Bust of Lapu-Lapu, Bust of President Manuel L. Quezon, Bust of Gat. Andres Bonifacio, Bust of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, head of a Filipina Lady, Miniature bust of Dr. Jose Rizal, Bust of Bibiano Meer, Bust of Luisa Marasigan, Bust of Don Jacobo Lim Chitco, bust of a Matriarch, Bust of Dr. Jose Rizal and Bust of a Boy Scout.

Security Bank remains to be one of the financial institutions in the Philippines that actively supports the preservation of the country’s culture and heritage. The Bank continues to partner with institutions to commemorate landmark events such as the National Heritage Month and works with various organizations to celebrate the country’s artistic and cultural legacy.

“Security Bank recognizes the important role that financial institutions play in nation-building and sustainable development. Our advocacies are aligned with our mission to enrich lives, empower businesses, and build communities. Security Bank has been a proud advocate of Filipino art and culture for many years and has been a partner of the National Museum since 2013. With the reintroduction of the Security Bank Hall underpinned by the official handover of Tolentino’s pieces, we hope to spark a fresh interest in historic art and make these easily accessible to visitors and the community for generations to come.” says Sanjiv Vohra, Security Bank President and CEO.

The newly renovated Security Bank Hall is located on the second floor of the National Museum of Fine Arts and will be open to the public starting September 27, 2022. Visitors will be able to see new additions to the exhibit, including priceless memorabilia such as the medal given to Tolentino during his confirmation as a National Artist and his tools of tradecraft.