Filipino sand artist wows Taiwan media
TWO years ago, the Taiwanese media discovered that a Filipino factory worker in a semiconductor company is also a gifted sand artist.
Mario Rafa Subeldia of Lucena City, who was 29 years old then, has since performed in year-end parties, concerts, TV shows and even invited as motivational speaker in various events not only in Hsinchu City where he is based but also in Taipei and adjoining places.
Subeldia has been working there for seven years and is just completing the needed documents so he can shift careers as a teacher. He holds a Bachelor of Arts major in Public Administration from the Southern Luzon State University in Lucena City.
In January last year, he formed a group called AFACE ( Arts and Fashion: A Charity Event). In coordination with the Gomaji Foundation in Taiwan, beneficiaries of their fundraising events include the Sinag Kalinga Home for the Aged in Lucban, Quezon; Lucena City indigenous people and street kids; Barangay Silangan, Mayao, Lucena City Day Care Center; and Duterte’s Kitchen, Lucena City branch.
“I help my co-OFWs who have the potential as models, artists and photographers to build their confidence and show their skills in Taiwan. This is in line with the organization’s vision and mission which is to share Filipino talents, skills and culture to the Taiwanese population,” he told The
Sunday Times Magazine in a phone interview while en route to Taichung.
For the AFACE Next Top Model search for ambassadors culminating on March 18 at Hsinchu Big City, artworks of Filipino artists will be showcased with the collaboration of Marikina-based Casa De Moda designer James Paul. Proceeds will be turned over to Lucena City Social Welfare Development Office for the benefit of the Girl Crisis Center and the Reception and Action Center for Boys.
The National Immigration Agency informed The Sunday Times Magazine during the visit that there are Filipinos in the business and education sectors too.