One event that I always look forward to yearly is Bulawan, the exhibition of handcrafted gold jewelry from Camarines Norte, Bicol, primarily because I am half Bicolana (my dad is from Daet, Camarines Norte) and secondly, I love handcrafted jewelry.
Going to Bulawan always reminds me of the jewelry collection of my grandmother and her sisters and the pieces that were handed down to me. As young as 7 years old, I was already familiar with the Bicol gold (24k and 18k) and trademark hadcrafted designs such as the alupihan (centipede), pinalay (rice grains), and tambourine and filigree (spanish-influenced designs).
I was reintroduced to these gold jewelry back in 2009 when the Provincial Government of Camarines Norte, through the Camarines Norte Investment Incentive Board (CNIIB) headed by then Honorable Governor Jesus O. Typoco, Jr., requested internationally-renowned sculptor and artist-designer Dr. Joaquin Gasgonia Palencia, a native of Daet, Camarines Norte, to design a series of elegant, one-of-a-kind jewellery that were executed by members of the CNJPAI for their national and international clientele.
Thus, the exhibition “Bulawan: the Gold of Camarines Norte” was born -- a showcase of 18k gold jewelry in natural motifs and unique cultural heritage of Camarines Norte, rendered through elegant and daring designs, and executed with high precision and faithfulness to the concept by their respective jewellers. The exhibit was held at the Ayala Museum from November 5 to 9 and was unveiled with a fashion show and a simple cocktail party.
The exhibit at the Ayala Museum paved the way for the invitation and participation of the Camarines Norte jewelry Producers Association, Inc. (CNJPAI) in the Hongkong International Jewellery Show last March 5-9, 2010 wherein the intricate and handcrafted jewelry products of the province were promoted not only at the Philippines but also in the international market.
In 2010, under the leadership of Governor Edgardo A. Tallado, the Bulawan returned and was on exhibit at the Yuchengco Museum from November 15 to December 4, showcasing a variety of jewelry collection classified from vintage, antique, traditional and modern designs thereby evoking "The Evolution of Camarines Norte Jewelry" and highlighting the gradual development in the design, craftmanship and quality of the jewelry items in Camarines Norte.
Long known for its rich deposits of gold, the province of Camarines Norte is becoming a major player in the Philippine jewelry industry through the efforts of the Provincial Government of Camarines Norte, and the Department of Trade and Industry-Camarines Norte Provincial Office (DTI-CNPO), who have been supporting the initiatives of local jewellers.
This time around, the Camarines Norte gold exhibit returns to Manila with "Bulawan: The Renaissance." The exhibit boasts of innovative designs that were culled from the recently concluded 2011 Jewelry Design Competition, as inspired by nature and other things the Bicol region is known for. It was formally opened last November 13 by Manila Vice Mayor Isko Moreno and the First Lady of Camarines Norte Josie Tallado (wife of Governor Edgardo Tallado), together with project chairman DTI-Camarines Norte Provincial Office Director Ernesto Pardo.
Also launch during the event is the official website of Bulawan at bulawanjewelry.com. You may also "like" their Facebook page and follow them on Twitter soon.
"Bulawan: The Renaissance" is on view at the Metropolitan Museum from November 13 to Dec. 13. Catch a glimpse of the breathtaking precious creations and while you are at it, buy a piece or two for your own collection.
Filed under EVENTS
John Legend - I was estatic to have been able to ask two questions during the RTI (round table interview). This was my first ever close encounter with a foreign artist. John Legend was a bit shy and reserved at the press con so it was a good surprise to see him give electrically charged performances on stage. I look forward to more songs from him, be it be for himself or for other artists as well. 
Craig David - the press con for Craig David was held 2 hours apart in the same day and venue for John Legend's. This time, it was a theater set-up where one has to go to the center mic to ask a question. It was nerve wracking (seeing him in the flesh, sex appeal and all, he he) but I had to give it a shot or the moment will just pass me by. The following day was the concert and my bro and I had so much fun.
David Cook & David Archuleta - the press con for the David Cook and David Archuleta back-to-back concert was held 2 days before the actual concert. The press con might have been leaked by some of the hotel staff so there were a lot of fans waiting at the ballroom lobby to catch a glimpse of the two Davids. I really heart David Cook...he was so near yet so far! David Archuleta was cute and smiling as always. 
Katy Perry - after being postponed due to typhoon Ondoy, Katy Perry's concert finally pushed through with an angle on Rock for Relief. I hope other foreign artists can do the same and help instead of thinking of gaining sums of money for themselves. You rock, Katy! 
CATS - the media launch for CATS the musical, with our very own Lea Salonga to play Grisabella, the cat who sings "Memories." Am excited to see the show this July. :)
Natalie Cole - watched Natalie Cole's concert with HS friend Gesy. It was such a relaxing evening listening to jazz and love songs, including popular 80s and 90s hits Inseperable, Unforgettable, I Miss You Like Crazy, Starting Over Again, etc.
Nine Inch Nails - Nine Inch Nails at the Araneta... Trent Reznor rocked! And so did Ely Buendia with Pupil. :)
Sarah Geronimo - her year-end concert aptly titled Record Breaker was indeed record breaking as she was able to fill Araneta Coliseum to the brim. Sarah's indeed an electrifying performer. I just think that the portion where she sang the jingle of all her endorsements was truly lame. Don't do it next time please.
