TABI TABI PO!

An Interactive Showcase of Philippine Lower Mythological Creatures and the Cultural Values they Embody

TABI-TABI PO!

Tabi-Tabi Po! is a practice-based interactive exhibition that explores the fascinating world of Philippine lower mythological creatures through non-mainstream art materials and lenticular techniques. This exhibit brings to life the narratives of creatures like Nuno sa Punso, Tiyanak, and Maria Makiling through a unique art-making process using bleach painting and UV-reactive paint.

The creatures only reveal themselves when viewed under a UV flashlight, inviting viewers to experience the interplay between seen and unseen worlds — much like how Filipino folklore lives between the realms of the visible and the mystical.

Accompanied by QR codes, each artwork connects audiences to comprehensive stories that explain the origin, evolution, and cultural significance of these mythological figures, along with the Filipino values reflected in the beliefs surrounding them.

About

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Fernando Lacson, Jr. is a visual artist, licensed educator, and researcher with over a decade of experience in academia as an arts and humanities specialist. He has held various teaching and leadership roles at St. Scholastica’s College-Manila and De La Salle University Integrated School. As an author and contributor for Vibal Publishing and REX Education, Mr. Lacson has developed comprehensive educational resources for grade school to senior high school learners. His commitment to cross-cultural exchange was further demonstrated when he represented the Philippines in the Language and Cultural Exchange Program under the Spanish Ministry of Education, teaching language and culture at C.E.I.P. Diego Velázquez in Almería, Spain.

Lacson is adept in diverse art techniques, having trained under masters Elmer Borlongan and Fernando Sena. His artistic practice spans various mediums, with a particular focus on non-mainstream materials and perceptual art. His recent works explore the intersection of folklore, cultural identity, and interactive art, blending traditional narratives with contemporary methods. He has exhibited his artworks and contributed to various publications as both writer and artist.

He holds a Master’s degree in Technology Education from the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP) and is currently completing his Master of Fine Arts at the University of Santo Tomas (UST). He presently serves as faculty and Research Publication Manager at the College of Fine Arts and Design, Lyceum of the Philippines University–Cavite. Driven by his passion for both education and the arts, Mr. Lacson remains committed to nurturing creativity, innovation, and cultural appreciation among his students and the wider community.