MoCAF 2025 returns to BGC, celebrating creativity in all its form

When the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival moved to the Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City last year, it felt like a breath of fresh air.

Sure, there were still the established and new galleries offering works from both masters and up-and-coming artists (as well as a few international participants) present as in its first two years spent in a fancy hotel ballroom in Makati. But it seems that the newcomer has finally found its footing in Taguig, offering more with a venue that fits MoCAF's ideals.

“Since its inception, MoCAF has challenged itself to introduce something new every year, making MoCAF bigger in reach and more inclusive in approach - staying true to a principle we strongly started with,” shares Festival Director Coleen Wong. “This year, we’re proud to present a wide-ranging showcase of the best of modern and contemporary art, from established masters to emerging artists.”

Browsing through hundreds of artworks can be exciting but tiring as well so MoCAF stood out in my mind by having a dedicated area where fair-goers can sit down and have a wide variety of reasonably-priced food, drinks, and at certain times, live music.

There is also an outdoor area in the upper levels featuring large sculptural works where guests can not only take photos and videos but enjoy a wide open space.

Through this, the relatively young MoCAF stays true to its premise of not just offering art but making sure that it feels inclusive for everybody who decides to attend.

This year's MoCAF is from July 11 to 13, 2025 and will once again be held at the Marquis Events Place, BGC. Over 50 exhibitors representing over 200 artists and nearly 40 independent artisans, and an increasing number of international galleries will be participating.

The nine international galleries include Vin Gallery (Vietnam), Core Contemporary Art (Malaysia), and Parallel+ (Hong Kong), alongside exciting local debuts from White Walls Gallery, Space Encounters Gallery, Arcadia Art Gallery, and others.  Returning galleries include Village Art Gallery featuring Qwark, Ysobel Art Gallery, and Art For Space, showcasing artists like Demi Padua, Ezeikel Fajardo, and more.

Special exhibitions add to the excitement, featuring a multigenerational showcase from the Orlina Family—Ramon Orlina and his children Anna and Michael, alongside solo shows by SAIS, Dennis Bato & Pinky Ibarra Urmaza, AR Manalo, Bryan Teves, Katrina Cuenca, Jaspher Penuliar, Juanito Torres, and a heartfelt tribute to the late Juvenal Sanso.

MoCAF Discoveries, a signature program since 2022, will feature 10 artists from the 2024 roster and introduce 22 emerging talents to watch.

“We’re also thrilled to host Toym Imao’s large-scale sculpture from the 14th Gwangju Biennale, shown in the Philippines for the first time at MoCAF,” Wong shared with excitement.

On the lifestyle front, MoCAF continues to bridge art and design through collaborations with local brands. Limited edition prints by Bad Student, exclusive merchandise with DBTK (Don’t Blame the Kids), and a co-created line with Lumi Candles add texture and sensory depth to the festival experience.

Extra treats

MoCAF XP, the festival’s community arm, continues to broaden engagement and accessibility by bringing art into everyday life through interactive and approachable programming.

MoCAF partners with The Astbury Club, a cultural hub in Makati, which hosted the MoCAF XP Art Bazaar featuring young creatives last June 28, 2025.

A Fabric Accessories and DIY Button Pin Workshop was held a week later at Mess Studio by Common Room in Makati, offering another hands-on opportunity to engage with local design and craft.

Along with this, MoCAF XTN returns to provide a platform that supports younger galleries, rising artists, and alternative art forms, extending the festival’s reach beyond traditional spaces to nurture fresh creative voices alongside established artists.

“This initiative reflects our dedication to nurturing the next generation of artists while honoring the contributions of seasoned artists who shaped our understanding of art today,” Wong added.

Clearly, celebrating creativity in all its forms is of utmost importance for MoCAF. Beyond the galleries, attendees will discover fashion, crafts, jewelry, food, and performances, all highlighting the skill and passion of Filipino makers and innovators.

A special lineup of artisan brands that guests can expect are Manila Middle Ground’s curated art and design goods; RUNIT DECKS’ collectible cards and puzzles; Tropik Beatnik’s handmade accessories; Wabi Sabi’s handcrafted ceramics; Miel Maker of Things’ playful fashion pieces; Clockwork Vintage’s rare timepieces; and ANTHILL’s sustainable, community-rooted woven wearables. Each brand brings a distinct voice and character to the festival’s diverse lineup, highlighting the depth and creativity of local makers.

Giving back

MoCAF proudly commits to community and inclusivity, supporting two meaningful initiatives: Fundacion Sansó’s ScholarSIP, which helps fund the education of young art students through scholarships, and the Mbrace Project, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Filipino children with disabilities and chronic illnesses.

“Through these partnerships, we aim to make art not only accessible, but also impactful where it’s needed most,” Wong said.

For this year’s edition, MoCAF is supported by its major partners: the City of Taguig, Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation, Chinabank as the official bank partner, Vespa as the road partner, and Hotel 101 as the official hotel partner, who share the same vision of making art more accessible, engaging, and meaningful.

Tickets are priced at only PHP 380. Students, PWDs, and Senior Citizens can avail of discounted rates. Tickets can be purchased online at mocaf.net or onsite during the festival.

MoCAF will take place on July 11–13, 2025, at Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. For more information on MoCAF and upcoming MoCAF XP activities, visit www.mocaf.net. Follow @mocafmanila on Instagram and like Mocaf.net on Facebook for updates. By Dexter R. Matilla

Email the author at dxmatillawrites@gmail.com