Brief Explanation

A mural of a singular character was created to represent the Pinuno (leader) embodying the four pre-colonial leaders. Every detail of this character was studied, inspired by historical research. The sword represented the mananandata (warrior), the ornaments the panday (blacksmith), the red color the datu (the “general manager”) and the mythical bird the babaylan (priestess). Even the floral background is inspired by history -- the floral borders of the Boxer Codex, a 600-year old manuscript of pre-colonial Filipinos. Painted in big bold letters are the words, “Sino ang may galing, sipag, tapang at puso? Siya ang dapat mamuno!” (Who has the skill, the ability to work hard, the courage, and the heart? He deserves to rule!) A busy intersection in Manila with maximum visibility was chosen for the mural. The “Pinuno” (leader) was a 60-foot reminder of what good leadership looked like, what good leadership Filipinos must aspire for.