Salcedo Auctions has signed a memorandum of understanding with Asia Society Philippines, formalizing its role as the “Education and Program Partner” in holding talks, exhibits and cultural experiences. The partnership signed last February 10 is meant to bridge worlds and brings together two leading cultural institutions united in commitment to promote Filipino and Asian heritage globally. Leading auction house Salcedo Auctions has long championed Philippine art, design, and material culture. Asia Society has been at the forefront of fostering cultural exchange and dialogue between Asia and the world.
At an Asia Society Philippines event: Ching Jorge, with trustees Kristine Romano and Mercedes Lopez Vargas, chairperson Doris Magsaysay Ho, former US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim, trustee Teresita Sy Coson, and Asia21 fellow Roby Alampay. (Photo courtesy of Asia Society)
Established in 1956 by John D. Rockefeller III, the landmark Asia Society and Museum on Park Avenue, New York, along with its centers in Asia, Australia, and Europe, have hosted thought leaders in art and culture, public policy, sustainability, business, and technology. This historic collaboration reflects an alignment of values—exploring and elevating Filipino and Asian cultures through the exchange of ideas, expertise, and programming.
A lecture/workshop, ‘Auctions 101,’ is Salcedo Auctions’ first program as Asia Society Philippines’ Education & Programs partner for 2026.
“We are honored to partner with an established and respected global organization that has been promoting cultural exchange for years. This is truly an extension of our vision beyond the auction house—to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the arts and culture,” says Richie Lerma, chairman and chief specialist of Salcedo Auctions.
The partnership kicks off in the first quarter with “Auctions 101,” a talk by Lerma on February 28, 2 pm, at Salcedo Auctions HQ at NEX Tower, 6786 Ayala Avenue, Makati. Designed for newcomers, the session will provide insights into the auction world, covering the fundamentals of buying and consigning, and offering a closer look at how the market operates.
“It’s open to the public (register via this link https://bit.ly/Auctions101Feb28), with a fee of P500 for Asia Society Philippines members and P1,000 for non-members,” says Lerma.
‘Form & Faith’ is an exhibition that traces the evolution of the Philippines’ sculpting tradition.
An exhibition opens the following month, in conjunction with Salcedo Auctions’ The Well-Appointed Life marquee sale on March 14. Titled Form & Faith: Ritual, Power and Symbol in Philippine Art, it traces the evolution of sculpture by Filipino artisans and artists from pre-colonial times to the present. The exhibition delves deeper into the shifts in purpose, function, technique, and concept, featuring pre-colonial sculptural objects, ecclesiastical works, and contemporary sculptures spanning the pre-war period to today.
On March 21, Asia Society Philippine members and the public are invited to register and gather at Rizal Park, Luneta, starting at 8 am for Luneta Lens, a guided walk-through with the park’s resident photographers. The program revisits a beloved yet often overlooked Filipino tradition: the Luneta portrait. Participants will explore historic sites within the park and pose for photos, reenacting a ritual that has documented families, friends, lovers, and tourists for decades, capturing evolving tastes, aspirations, and memories across generations.
More education programs, exhibitions, and tours are slated throughout the year, spanning the arts, heritage, and even culinary culture—all designed to deepen engagement with and appreciation for Filipino identity in its many forms.
For inquiries, email info@salcedoauctions.com or call tel. no. (+63917) 591-2191. For updates, follow @salcedoauctions on FB and IG.
