The University of the East – College of Fine Arts, Architecture and Design (UE CFAD) proudly congratulates Mr. Jose “Joey” C. Mariano for receiving an Honorable Mention at the recently concluded Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) National Art Competition for his watercolor painting, Hanap Buhay. As one of the competition’s finalists and awardees, Mr. Mariano received a certificate of recognition, a commemorative medal, and a cash prize of ₱200,000.
Hanap Buhay is an artwork that illuminates the silent heroism of firefighters, portraying their work not only as a profession and means of livelihood but also as a relentless search for life and hope amid tragedy and disaster. The piece powerfully captures the extraordinary dedication of Filipino firefighters, who risk their lives in service to others, embodying this year’s competition theme, “The Filipino Public Servant.”
Currently teaching in the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication program at UE CFAD, Mr. Mariano is a multi-talented artist whose practice spans character design, illustration, painting, and visual effects. A proud graduate of UE CFAD’s Advertising Arts program, now known as Visual Communication, he has established himself in both traditional and digital media. His professional portfolio includes contributions to television series, films, and commercials, most notably the acclaimed live-action adaptation of Voltes V: Legacy. As a 2D compositor and 3D visual effects artist, he combines technical expertise with a distinctive artistic vision that continues to shape imaginative visual worlds.
Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Mariano remains committed to mentoring the next generation of artists as an instructor at UE CFAD, where he emphasizes innovation, creativity, and strong artistic foundations. Outside the classroom and the studio, he is also an avid toy collector and designer, drawing inspiration from nostalgia and contemporary culture to create unique works that bridge the past and the present.
Meanwhile, other UE CFAD award-winning alumni who were among the competition’s finalists include Neo-Folkloric iconographer Ernesto “Aris” Bagtas, whose acrylic painting Lingkod Bayan was recognized, and Leo T. Santos III, who was also named a finalist for his acrylic painting, Apoy at Tapang. Both earned their Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees with a major in Advertising Arts.
UE CFAD takes pride in the achievements of its alumni, whose artistic excellence and commitment to meaningful storytelling continue to inspire future generations of visual artists.
