Kananga town in Leyte province is stepping up its promotion through artwork as part of its 73rd founding anniversary celebration this month.

Mayor Manuel Vicente “Matt” Torres said on Monday the local government has unveiled the highly anticipated painting “Kan Anga” at the town hall last June 17.

This remarkable artwork is a collaborative masterpiece by renowned artists Manny Garibay, Otto Neri, Jun Vicaldo, and Jezir Lacuña.

The unveiling event was a visual delight, revealing the vibrant colors and profound emotions woven into “Kan Anga.”

The painting beautifully embodies the spirit and essence of Kananga, reflecting the combined talent and creativity of these exceptional artists.

Torres said the painting revolves around Kananga’s history which depicts the town’s local products, livelihood, sceneries, natural wonders, and people.

Before the unveiling, at least 50 local artists also attended and collaborated on a three-day ”Patilaw” Art Talk, Demo, and Collaborative Mural Workshop last June 15-17, with the theme “Envisioning an Art and Cultural Flourishing.”

“Their mastery of the patriotic art talk, demo, and collaborative mural workshop has captivated the hearts and minds of the people of Kananga. Through their creations, they have stirred emotions, inspired imagination, and enriched our cultural landscape. We are forever grateful for their artistic brilliance,” Torres said.

The painting and mural are up for display year-round at the new town hall.

Kananga, which is 77 kilometers west of this city, is a first class town in Leyte province with a population of around 60,000.

The bustling town near Ormoc City shares a home to Energy Development Corporation’s Tongonan geothermal power plant, one of the largest geothermal power plants in the country.

Kananga was created in 1950 from the villages of Lonoy, Kananga, Rizal, Tugbong, Montebello, Aguiting, Agayayan, Montealegre, Libungao, Naghalin, and Masarayao which all used to be part of Ormoc City. (PNA)