The local leg will be led by the Kurit-Lagting Art Collective in partnership with Delta Beta Omega (DBO) and the Concerned Artists of the Philippines Bicol Chapter (CAP Bicol).
It is organized through the Sorsogon Initiatives for Culture and Arts Development (SICAD) and supported by a network of cultural and community partners including Gadgetry City, Soffie’s, Koala Project, Project Mars, Rhymes of Peg (ROP), Sorsogon Arts Council, and Kuya Tonzkie Foodhouse.
The walk begins at the Sorsogon State University Pavilion and will culminate at the Sorsogon Baywalk (Rompeolas), offering participants opportunities to capture the coastal city’s vibrant landscapes while exchanging insights and reflections.
Local leadership and cultural focus
This year’s Photowalk will be led by Venus Ashtred Briñola of the Kurit-Lagting Art Collective, underscoring women’s leadership in creative communities.
The Sorsogon walk adopts the theme “Through the Lens of Truth: Responsible, Reliable, and Culturally Aware Storytelling,” emphasizing photography as both a creative and ethical practice.
“This Photowalk is more than just taking pictures. It is about reclaiming the power of images to tell stories that matter,” said Judy Azul of Kurit-Lagting. “As artists, we are committed to socially engaged work that reflects both the beauty and struggles of our communities.”
CAP Bicol members Choi Carretero and Allan Abrigo added: “Art has always been a tool for truth-telling. Through this Photowalk, we hope to highlight photography as a cultural practice that is responsible, reliable, and aware of the social realities of our times.”
A Platform for youth and community
The event also aims to encourage youth expression and collaboration. “Young people are eager to express themselves, and photography gives us a collective voice,” said Ruth Jocutan of ROP and John Vergel Doctor of DBO.
“By walking together, we show how creativity and collaboration can shed light on the issues that shape our lives.”
The Photowalk will also serve as the launchpad for the Sorsogon Arts and Culture Online Magazine, a community-based publication showcasing the province’s heritage, artistry, and cultural perspectives.
Technology and art hand in hand
Corporate partner Gadgetry City emphasized the link between creativity and access to tools. “By equipping local creatives with the tools for visual storytelling, we help them amplify their voices and showcase Sorsogon’s rich culture,” said COO Gary George Clotario. “Every creative deserves the right tools.”
Part of a global tradition
Launched in 2007 by photographer and educator Scott Kelby, the Worldwide Photowalk has grown into the largest social photography event in the world, drawing over 24,000 participants annually.
In Sorsogon, online slots have already filled, though organizers said limited walk-ins will still be accommodated. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
