At La Consolacion College Bacolod, we take immense pride in the accomplishments of our students, and one recent achievement has truly captured our collective attention. Therese Ortaliz, a talented architecture student with a passion for painting, has recently been named a finalist in the prestigious 2025 Sining Filipina All-Female Art Competition, a remarkable achievement that showcases not just her artistic skill, but her dedication to issues of sustainability and social change.
Though Therese didn’t take home one of the top prizes, her work—”PAGBAG-O SANG PLASTIC”—was chosen to be part of an exclusive exhibit at SM Aura Premier in Manila, where it will be displayed from March 27 to April 3, 2025. The competition, themed “Her Earth, Her Future: Women in the Forefront of Sustainability”, gave Therese an opportunity to highlight the resilience and creativity of women in her hometown of Bago City, capturing them transforming discarded plastic bags into functional art.
In her piece, Therese depicts local women crocheting discarded plastic bags into wallets and handbags. The painting beautifully encapsulates the theme of renewal, as these women breathe new life into waste, while simultaneously empowering their community. As Therese explained, the title of her painting, “Bag-o”, plays on the Hiligaynon word for “new” and symbolizes the transformation of plastic waste into something meaningful. For Therese, this act is more than just an artistic expression; it’s a celebration of sustainability, community strength, and the role of women as agents of change.
Sr. Flolyn S. Catungal, OSA, President of La Consolacion College Bacolod, expressed her pride in Therese’s achievement, stating, “We are incredibly proud of Therese and her ability to use her art to champion the critical issue of sustainability. It’s students like her who remind us of the power of art to drive social change and inspire others. Her success as a finalist in such a prestigious competition speaks to the depth of her creativity and her commitment to meaningful themes that resonate with the future of our world.”
Therese’s painting is not just a piece of art—it’s a statement. It’s about giving waste a second life and highlighting the often-overlooked strength of women who, through their everyday actions, are making a tangible difference in the world around them. By showcasing their craft, Therese has given these unsung heroes the recognition they deserve.
As an architecture student, Therese brings a unique perspective to her art. She says that her architectural training influences her painting, particularly in terms of structure and perspective. Whether it’s designing buildings or crafting brushstrokes, her approach to both art forms is rooted in precision and balance. This ability to blend creativity with technicality sets Therese apart and contributes to the distinctiveness of her artwork.
Looking to the future, we have no doubt that this is just the beginning for Therese Ortaliz. Her combination of architectural acumen and artistic flair will continue to shape her career and fuel her passion for using art as a vehicle for change. As an institution, we are excited to see how her journey unfolds and how her work will inspire others to look at the world—and their role in it—in a different light.
At La Consolacion College Bacolod, we believe in nurturing talent and celebrating the achievements of our students, and Therese’s success in the Sining Filipina All-Female Art Competition is a perfect example of the exceptional young minds we strive to cultivate. Therese is proof that when passion meets purpose, it can create something truly powerful. We are confident that this young artist will continue to make waves in the art world and beyond.
We can’t wait to see what’s next for Therese—her journey is one to watch.