The Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel came alive on March 25, 2026, as distinguished guests, artists, members of the media, and content creators gathered for the opening reception of HATCH 2026, the 8th edition of the premier art showcase at The Manila Hotel.
With the theme Contemporary Visions, Timeless Setting, HATCH 2026 bridges heritage and modern expression. This year’s edition brings together 12 contemporary and emerging Filipino artists, each invited to interpret the iconic acrylic egg transforming it into a compelling vessel of storytelling, identity, and imagination.
Set against the storied backdrop of The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby, the opening reception formally presented this year’s featured artists to the public: Marko Belo, Dino Blanco, Norman Blanco, Rachel Anne Lacaba, Jao Mapa, Raf Page, Tokwa Peňaflorida, JP Pining, Angelo Roxas, Alber Tabanao, Rene Tolentino, and Krishnamurti.
The event was graced by Mr. Basilio C. Yap, chairman of the board of The Manila Hotel; Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, vice chairman of The Manila Hotel and president of the Manila Bulletin; Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr. president of The Manila Hotel; Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel; and Leslie Araujo, brand and marketing manager of the Manila Bulletin and project head of HATCH 2026; alongside members of the media and content creators.
In his remarks, Marvin Kim Tan shared, “What began as a platform to showcase fresh ideas has grown into a meaningful space that champions creativity and emerging talent. We are proud to continue supporting this initiative and the community it has built over the years. Our sincere thanks to Manila Bulletin for their continued partnership, and to the 12 artists featured this year. When Ernest Hemingway visited in 1941, he remarked, ‘It’s a good story if it’s like The Manila Hotel.’ May this year’s exhibit at our Grand Lobby be another great story to tell.”
HATCH Contemporary Visions, Timeless Setting is on display at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel until May 2, 2026. Admission is free.
For more information, visit The Manila Hotel
