MANILA, Philippines - Two groups of artists from the University of the Philippines in Diliman bagged two prizes at the Avida Land 2012 3D Street Painting Competition held recently at the Avida Towers Centera grounds.

First prize was awarded to the entry, “Pasko na, Santa Claus” by UP Diliman’s Yoopee Ep-Ay artists’ group. Second prize went to Polytechnic University of the Philippines’ Creative Artists Group for its entry, “Diwa ng Pasko.” And third prize was given to “Paskong Pinoy,” an entry from AC TEAM also from UP Diliman.

Winners received the following prizes: first prize – glass trophy and P75,000; second prize – glass trophy and P50,000; and third prize – glass trophy and P30, 000.

It was the second time for Avida Land to hold the 3D Street Painting Competition as part of its CSR portfolio. This year’s theme was “Pasko Natin: Ang Diwa Ng Pasko Sa Pilipinas.” According to Tess Tatco, Avida marketing manager, their company is very supportive of projects that help promote and foster Filipino culture.

“Avida’s business is creating sustainable communities that allow Filipino families to thrive. A big part of that is making sure that our cultural and social values are nurtured and passed on to the next generation. This 3D painting competition underscores the importance of our uniquely Filipino Christmas celebration and what it means for us: unity, family, togetherness, and hope amid adversity. And we encourage the public to go to the Avida Towers Centera site and see these artworks for themselves.”

The finalists’ artworks were judged by three jurors: visual artist and educator Fil Dela Cruz; visual artist and STAR columnist Igan D’Bayan; and Avida Land Corp. associate marketing manager Anne Baylon.

Images of the artworks in the finalists’ roster will be posted on Avida Land’s Facebook page (Avida Land Corp.) and the actual 3D paintings are now exhibited at the Avida Towers Centera site. The artworks are open for public viewing during office hours, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Avida Towers Centera is at Mayflower Street, corner Reliance St., Mandaluyong City.