Spearheaded by Creative Industries Management (AB-CIM) students, the Likha’t Lahi Jeepney Signage Workshop commenced on April 15 at the 3/F Hub for Innovation for Inclusion (Hi-Fi) building. Featuring Mr. Edwin Tayao, a professional jeepney signage artist based in Tondo, Manila, wherein he shared what it’s like to continue a traditional craft in today's modern world.
When it comes to jeepney art, the first thing that comes to mind would be the unique and personalized designs on the vehicle itself. Ironically, people fail to recognize the intricate and creative work behind the signages despite it being the first thing we look at when riding jeepneys.
Students at the forefront
In a span of only a month, the AB-CIM students who were taking up Arts Management Philippine Culture and Society (AMCULTR), created an event where attention to detail exceeded the expectations of everyone on the third floor of the Hi-Fi building. One of the project heads, Jhona Mae Uy, an ID124 AB-CIM student, shared in an interview with The Benildean, that the idea of centering the event on jeepney signages was a collaborative effort between the class—which resonated with both the students and their adviser.
Uy mentioned that one of the students mentioned seeing Mr. Tayao in a documentary, “From there, the idea developed into a full workshop centered on preserving and appreciating this uniquely Filipino art form.” This event came at a critical time; with current transportation issues the students were able to provide a platform and fundraising initiative to shed light on the realities that jeepney drivers face today.
The process of working with Mr. Tayao was a rewarding experience for the students. He was accommodating and generous with his time and knowledge, “[...] given his prior experience in facilitating workshops, he was already familiar with what was needed and guided us accordingly… We even had the opportunity to visit his home and workspace for a short interview, where he warmly welcomed us and shared more about his craft,” Uy shared.
Precision in motion
Entering the third floor of Hi-Fi at that time can be comparable to entering a traditional Filipino jeepney. Where the decorations were vibrant and OPM tunes blasted in background complemented the warm and welcoming atmosphere of your journey—in this case, the journey to learning more about Mr. Tayao.
The event started with a forum between Mr. Tayao and the host, where the audience got to know more about his creative journey and inspiration. Creating jeepney signages was a craft passed down in his family, where his late father serves as his role model in creating to this day. Mr. Tayao has been creating signages for over twenty years, and his journey was not easy, but what pushes him to continue creating these handmade pieces is his passion for the arts.
When the workshop commenced, the portion started with a quick live demonstration from the 46-year-old artist himself. Letters emerged from small boxes drawn on the sintra board for division—a method Mr. Tayao does to prioritize symmetry and efficiency. Through a close-up shot presented on screen, the participants were able to ask the artist how to do certain letters and follow closely.
Creating the signage was a humbling experience according to Chantel Cabuyao, an ID125 student from the Multimedia Arts (AB-MMA) program and event-goer, shared with The Benildean that, “[...] the part where we were making the signage, that really showed us how not so easy it is to do it… I kind of had a hard time doing the letters. That really made me in awe of the craft of the artists today.”
“Mabuhay ang mga artists!” Mr. Tayao proudly shouted as the event closed with a photo session and “Salu-Salo session” at the Hi-Fi rooftop, where participants can enjoy a hearty meal prepared by the organizers accompanied by performances from Xie and Yessirs.
A sign of gratitude
According to Uy, jeepney drivers bring home ₱200 to ₱300 a day, which is not enough, especially due to the gas hike. “In response, we launched the “Tsuper Pack,” a mystery chip bag sold for ₱70, which included 1 of 4 Filipino toys, 1 of 6 keychains, 5 of 10 candies, and a thank you card.”
Uy also shared that Mr. Tayao graciously showcased the true essence of bayanihan, “He chose to support the cause by offering custom signage commissions, with 25% of each order going toward the fundraising effort.” With this, Likha’t Lahi was able to sell 100 packs, providing grocery packs for jeepney drivers and their families from the proceeds.
Mr. Tayao was very vocal throughout the event about always being open for interviews and exposure to media as it is a way to reach the general public—the younger generation. He expressed his gratitude in an exclusive interview with The Benildean, “[...] sila mismo ‘yung nag-build up ng gawang ganito [jeepney signage], umangat ulit. Kaya thankful ako… sa mga estudyante, napuntahan ko ‘yung mga school… Kundi dahil sa kanila, parang nawala na ito. Sila ‘yung bumuhay ng mga artist… Talagang thankful talaga sa mga estudyante.”
His journey was not smooth sailing, especially during the pandemic where he had lost all hope until an individual helped him stand on his own feet again. An act that created a huge impact, allowing him to support his family purely through his creative works. With this, Mr. Tayao wishes to provide the same support to others in need, “‘Yung mga kabataang naliligaw man ng landas, kung gusto nilang matuto at wala silang mapagkaabalan, lumapit lang sa akin… willing ko silang tulungan.”
For Mr. Tayao, the ability to create and continue to create is what makes his profession one he truly values. And one day he hopes to be able to pass down his craft not just to his family members but to everyone out there who wishes to learn how to create a traditional jeepney signage.
