The 2012 Maningning Miclat Art Competition bore witness to a culmination of artistic fervor as it showcased twenty-eight captivating paintings under the theme "Ang Pangarap Kong Bayan/The Nation in My Mind." The entries, a testament to the creativity and skill of budding artists, were short-listed from various educational institutions across the Philippines.

Among the notable talents, John Magne Lisondra emerged victorious, claiming the grand prize for his poignant creation titled "Munti kong Pangarap." Lisondra's masterpiece stood out among the entries, capturing the essence of the theme in a compelling and evocative manner.

The competition's runner-ups, Alfred Benedict Marasigan and Kristoffer M. Tolentino, secured the 2nd and 3rd places, respectively, with their exceptional artistic expressions. Their contributions added depth and diversity to an already impressive array of artworks.

The paintings, primarily rendered in oil, acrylic, watercolor, and mixed media, were the creations of talented artists under 28 years of age. These stunning pieces will be exhibited during the much-anticipated Maningning Art Awards night at Sining Kamalig, Ali Mall in Cubao, Quezon City, commencing on September 27 at 6:00 p.m.

The accolades awaiting the top three winners include cash prizes, the prestigious Julie Lluch sculpture trophy for the 1st Prize, and Certificates of Merit for the 2nd and 3rd Prize winners. Additionally, the laureates will be bestowed with special hard-bound edition books by the Miclat family and a tuition-free training opportunity in Chinese painting led by the esteemed artist Arsenia Tsai Shui-yuin.

Distinguished luminaries in the art and literary sphere, such as National Artists F. Sionil Jose, Bienvenido Lumbera, Virgilio S. Almario, and renowned sculptor Ramon Orlina, along with the Maningning Foundation trustees, will honor and present the awards to the deserving winners. The awards night promises an enchanting ambiance with poetry readings from past judges and victors of the Maningning Trilingual Poetry Competition.

Moreover, the event will feature captivating musical performances by ROCKBATO, an independent pop/rock/alternative band, led by the multitalented artist, composer, and singer Aba Lluch Dalena. Serving as the emcee, Banaue Miclat Janssen will guide the audience through the evening, which will also include a discourse on the judging process by the esteemed judges Imelda Cajipe Endaya, Alfredo Liongoren, and Pablo Baens Santos.

The Maningning Miclat Art Award, held every even-numbered year, pays tribute to the late Chinese poet James Na, who played an instrumental role as a founding member of the Maningning Foundation Board of Trustees. Na Teng Choon, internationally known as Yun He, contributed significantly to the literary realm and the foundation's Chinese Poetry division.

This year's event, co-sponsored by the Liongoren Gallery and Sining Kamalig, stands as a testament to the foundation's commitment to nurturing and celebrating artistic talent while honoring the legacy of those who have significantly contributed to the artistic and literary landscape. The Maningning Miclat Art Competition continues to serve as a platform for the blossoming creativity of young artists, perpetuating the rich tapestry of artistic expression in the Philippines.