By Mikee Natinga Norico
Christine Jacar’s DecoPot designs shine as a top three finalist in the ATOP Pearl Awards for Best Tourism Souvenir.
A local artist and Central Philippine University (CPU) alumna, Christine Jacar, has brought pride to her alma mater and the province of Iloilo by being named one of the top three finalists in the prestigious ATOP Pearl Awards for the Best Tourism Souvenir (non-food/municipality level) category.
The Pearl Awards, hosted by the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), celebrate the contributions of individuals and organizations to the country’s tourism industry. The acronym “PEARL” stands for Personal Employability, Achievement, and Reflection for Learning, which resonates with Jacar’s journey as a self-taught artist.
In an inclusive interview, Jacar expressed her surprise at being named a finalist. “Unexpected, shocked — this is a national award. I did not really expect that we could go this far. I am a self-taught artist, and I am little intimidated with other professionals, but then again, we reached the top 3 and have a chance of landing the top 1. The award is a boost to my confidence and a push to keep going,” she said.
A native of Balasan, Iloilo, Jacar is a proud CPU graduate, having completed her high school education in 1991 and earned an AB in Political Science in 1996. Her artistic journey began during the pandemic when she turned to gardening as a form of therapy. It was then that she began designing clay pots, later expanding into crafting concrete pots. Her unique designs quickly garnered attention at various local events and exhibitions, including the Iloilo Pride Pyesta 2022 and Philippine Creative Industries Month Exhibit.
DecoPot’s vibrant hand-painted designs cater to both indoor and outdoor spaces, and Jacar offers customization options to fit her customers’ preferences. The pots have become popular souvenirs and event tokens, and DecoPot was even the official token provider for the Lin-ay sang Iloilo 2023.
This recognition is particularly meaningful as it places DecoPot and Balasan, Iloilo, on the map in the tourism industry. The Balasan Tourism Office submitted DecoPot’s entry for the Pearl Awards, which included an online interview and the submission of product samples to Manila.
As Jacar eagerly awaits the announcement of the top 3 placements at the 25th National Convention of the ATOP in Koronadal, South Cotabato, on October 10, 2024, DecoPot will also be showcased at the Artesanias de Iloilo from September 23 to 29 at Robinsons Mall.
Jacar’s achievements not only exemplify the creativity and resilience of Iloilo’s artists but also highlight the lasting impact of CPU alumni in the broader community.
To explore Decopot’s creations, visit the following locations:
- SM City Iloilo – Villa Plantshop
- Plazuela de Iloilo – Greeny Granny
- Magsaysay Maritime – City Proper
- UP Visayas Museum – Iloilo City
- ZBJ Construction Supply – Carles
- Tourism Office – Carles
- CPU School Enterprise – Jaro