From April 22 to 24, 2025, the vibrant town of El Nido came alive with colors, creativity, and community as it hosted the much-anticipated 15th Kalugtan Arts Festival — a celebration of art, culture, and connection deeply rooted in the spirit of the land.
This year’s festival placed a spotlight on accessibility and inclusivity in the arts through a series of free, hands-on workshops offered to the public. Nurturing creativity across generations, the Kalugtan Festival welcomed participants of all ages and backgrounds to explore their artistic potential in various creative spaces across El Nido.
One of the most beloved collaborators this year was Kalye Artisano, which served as a vibrant venue for several experiential workshops. From terra cotta sculpture to interdisciplinary art, buri weaving, and photography, the Kalye Artisano space was buzzing with creativity and community spirit.
Here’s a glimpse of the festival’s rich workshop lineup:
All workshops ran from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, resuming again at 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, giving participants ample time to immerse in hands-on learning and creative exploration. While the sessions were free of charge, pre-registration was required to ensure an organized and engaging experience for everyone involved.
The Kalugtan Arts Festival isn’t just an event—it’s a movement. A celebration that uplifts local talent, promotes sustainable art practices, and highlights the transformative power of creative expression. Whether you were molding clay, capturing the charm of El Nido through your lens, or simply watching a child’s eyes light up with their first brushstroke—one thing became clear:
Art lives here.
Thank you to everyone who came, created, and celebrated with us. We hope your hearts left fuller and your hands a little messier.
Until next time...
With love,
Kalye Artisano