Instead of asking for alms, these street kids sell artworks to earn a living.
Facebook user Adrian Moslares shared a now-viral post on Wednesday of street children selling their artworks on pieces of cardboard for only PHP1 (US$0.02) to PHP5 (US$0.10) each outside the Gaisano Grand Calbayog mall, Calbayog City in Samar province.
Moslares told Coconuts Manila through a Facebook message that all the kids in the photo created the artworks on the pieces of cardboard. Colorful sketches of a minion, the Philippine flag, and a flower in a pot, among others, can be seen in the viral post.
He said he was just passing by when he noticed the children drawing and a cardboard sign which had the words “ART FOR SALE” written on it.
“That’s when I noticed that there was a guy teaching the children [how to draw],” Moslares said in Filipino.
He identified the man as Dennis Calag, who is wearing a green shirt with a blue bag in Moslares’ first photo.
“Instead of begging for money, he’s teaching the children to sell their artworks. I was touched and I took a photo [of them] which I hope will serve as an inspiration to the youth and other artists,” Moslares told Coconuts.
Moslares added that Calag was the one who provided the children with the cardboard and crayons that they use to draw with.
Moslares said Calag told him that the kids have a drawing session every 6pm. “Now, the kids use normal paper because they were helped by the Rotary Club [of Greater] Calbayog. The children were given bags and other materials.”
The Facebook post had over 5,900 likes and 6,900 shares as of this article’s posting. And it warmed netizens’ hearts.
Augusto Singko said: “Future national artist[s] in the making.”
Valen Sibbaluca Carlos also said: “For sure someday they will become great artists.”
Rose Anne Manalo tagged a friend and shared: “They’re so cute, I want to buy [too].”
Tee Mak added: “Wow! This is amazing!”
Gold Langcay Brillantes-Canapi said: “[This is] [n]ice. Better than if the kids beg [for money]. At least they get to showcase their potential.”
Have you seen anything like this in your city? Leave a comment below or tweet us @CoconutsManila.
