BACOLOD, PHILIPPINES — A sanctuary with a dazzling array of marine and terrestrial life, Danjugan is a 43-hectare island in Barangay Bulata, Cauayan, Negros Occidental. Unspared by the devestation caused by Typhoon Odette (Rai) last December 16, the island continues to reel from the aftermath. To support its rebuilding and rehabilitation efforts, 39 artists come together in the fundraising exhibit “The Island is Calling”, from 14 January to 28 February 2022, at the Orange Project Gallery in the Art District, Bacolod City, Philippines.
As Danjugan plays a symbolic role in preserving the natural heritage and securing a sustainable future for Negros, the catalogue of artworks in this exhibition were mostly made on circuar canvas, inspired by the story of the island and its message on sustainability.
Danjugan’s story began in 1994 when it was acquired through crowdfunding led by Gerry Ledesma, inspired to save a tree where the island’s resident sea eagles were nesting. The Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PRRCFI) was then formed to be the keeper of, not just the tree, but all of the flora and fauna on the island.
For more than 27 years now, Danjugan has been home to a breathing beach forest, lush seagrass beds, 14 species of mangroves, more than 70 species of birds, 10 species of bats, 500 species of corals and 200 species of fishes. Coconut crabs, endangered giant clams, the humphead wrasse or Mameng, nesting sea turtles, and reef sharks are a few key species thriving in this wildlife sanctuary.
The island has also inspired thousands of people of all ages through its environmental education and ecotourism experiences in about three decades, including the virtual sessions in the time of the pandemic. As Danjugan serves as nesting grounds for wildlife, it also has become a memorable place where budding environmentalists seem to hatch, and where they are nurtured to speak and act on behalf of nature, beyond the island in their own communities.
To support Danjugan’s relief and rebuilding efforts, and to view the exhibit’s collection of Rotonda artworks, visit here.
