Vlad Bunoan

Article (news)

Art collector Otty Lumagui

Josh Mercado

Angel Cacnio&#x27;s artwork introduced Rosita Lara &quot;Otty&quot; Lumagui to the world of art. The painting, which she was introduced to by a dealer, struck a strong chord with her since it symbolized her Filipino roots.“It was the moment I realized art was more than admiration; it was something I genuinely connected with,” recalled Lumagui, the managing director of Worldwide Resource Solutions (WWRS) Philippines Inc., a virtual nursing leader and advocate for Filipino talent, as well as the founder and COO of Bocca, a restaurant noted for its French, Italian, and Spanish-inspired food.Over the years, she has turned that relationship into a mission: to highlight local artists and share their work both at home and abroad. Through her partnerships with WWRS Philippines, she has helped Filipino artists in reaching a global audience.Her collaborations with Bocca have elevated art to a multisensory experience, combining culture, design, and food.“Together, they formed a harmony of vision, flavor, and pride,” she said. “Art was not just something we looked at – it was something we felt, carried, and lived through.”<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1773787561169image0 (2).jpeg" style="width:655px" class="fr-fic fr-dib fr-dragging" alt=" Rosita Lara &quot;Otty&quot; Lumagui supports local artists. Handout "/> Rosita Lara &quot;Otty&quot; Lumagui supports local artists. Handout </div>Lumagui’s enthusiasm for the local art scene is shaped by a stark contrast. While the Philippines is rich in talent, opportunities remain uneven. Established names continue to dominate international galleries and exhibitions, while many emerging artists struggle for recognition.“Often, only established names receive consistent gallery support or opportunities to exhibit abroad. This contrast — between immense talent and limited access — has deeply shaped how I view and value our local art scene,” she said.When she comes across a painting that speaks to her, the artist&#x27;s vision and style move her the most. “There’s something powerful about seeing culture translated through a distinct artistic lens,” expressed the art connoisseur.Her collection exemplifies this concept, with pieces by Cacnio, Manuel Baldemor, Richard Arimado, and Dominic Rubio, all of whom appreciate and conserve Filipino culture. Obemio&#x27;s &quot;After Pandora&#x27; is a recent addition that has rapidly become a fan favorite.“It brings a sense of happiness and lightness – simply looking at it lifts my mood,” she told the press.Collecting, she explained, requires intention. “Don’t collect for the sake of accumulation – choose pieces that you truly have space for, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well,” she noted.“I don’t hoard. I respect the value of each piece and treat every artwork as something meant to be appreciated, not just owned,” she continued.<div><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1773787597931image1 (2).jpeg" style="width:655px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="655" alt="Otty Lumagui speaks about art collecting, investing, and meaning. Handout "/>Otty Lumagui speaks about art collecting, investing, and meaning. Handout </div>Her love for monumental works has also shaped her perspective. “Seeing the paintings at the Louvre was humbling and awe-inspiring. The scale and mastery left me completely speechless,” she added.Digital platforms have added another dimension to her engagement with art. “They allow you to immerse yourself in art in ways that differ from simply admiring pieces hanging in large museums. It’s a more intimate experience,” she stated.For Lumagui, art is more than decoration. “Imagine living in a house without color or shape. Art brings life, emotion, and meaning into our spaces and experiences. It allows me to tap into my creative side beyond the daily and mundane – it’s an escape,” she explained.Supporting Filipino artists remains central to her mission. “Filipino artists deserve to be seen, celebrated, and remembered. Every young artist we uplift carries a piece of our nation forward,” she said, advising aspiring collectors to follow their instincts,.“Like fashion, don’t chase fads. Choose what speaks to you. Art has its own language – you just have to learn how to listen.”Encouraging enthusiasts of foreign masters to explore local equivalents, she added, “I love Gustav Klimt, and I find that Myk Velasco’s work sometimes carries a similar inspiration – rooted here, yet universal.”Traditional painting is her preferred medium, and she frequently starts her day by visiting a museum. For Lumagui, collecting is both an investment and an engagement, a process that combines emotion, culture, and intelligence.“Art is meant to be lived with, felt, and carried with you. It is never just an object,” she said.Her story serves as a reminder that collecting goes beyond ownership. It&#x27;s a conversation about culture, history, and the artists that shape them.“Every artwork tells a story, and every story reflects who we are. Supporting Filipino artists is more than collecting, as it keeps our culture alive and inspires the next generation,” the art collector ended.

From collector to advocate, Rosita Lara “Otty” Lumagui is using her platform to spotlight Filipino artists.

From collector to advocate, Rosita Lara “Otty” Lumagui is using her platform to spotlight Filipino artists.

Art collector Otty Lumagui bets on local art scene: ‘It keeps our culture alive’

News

Entertainment

Lifestyle

Sports

Metro.Style

More

Traffic

Manila

Horoscope

People, Culture, and Events

Art collector Otty Lumagui bets on local art scene: ‘It keeps our culture alive’

Josh Mercado

Published Mar 18, 2026 04:20 PM PHT

Read More:

Otty Lumagui

Bocca

art

ABS-CBN is the leading media and entertainment company in the Philippines, offering quality content across TV, radio, digital, and film. Committed to public service and promoting Filipino values, ABS-CBN continues to inspire and connect audiences worldwide.

Corporate

Investors

Governance

International Distribution

Corporate

Governance

Investors

International Distribution

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

AI Policy

Terms of Service

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.