Dubai Honors Two Filipino Photographers

Filipinos James Singlador and Xyza Cruz Bacani were among the top photographers from around the world honored by the prestigious and highly coveted Hamdan International Photography Award (HIPA) in Dubai. The award ceremonies were held recently at the Dubai International Financial Center with the Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum himself in attendance.

James Singlador of the Samahang Litratista ng Rizal (SLR) placed 5th in the General Category, while Xyza Cruz Bacani, the Filipina domestic who made a name in Hong Kong, also placed 5th in the Black and White category. Singlador and Bacani each got US$6,000 in prize money and seven-kilogram trophies made of nickel, silver and gold. The Grand Prize of US$120,000 went to Indian photographer Anurag Kumar.

“HIPA fetched me with a limousine from my home in Antipolo,” said an amused Singlador. “They paid for our airline tickets and hotel expenses, and fetched us again with a limousine from the hotel to the awards venue. One other thing, the crown prince himself chose my photo as backdrop at the entrance to Dubai International Financial Center, venue for the awards. It’s amazing and I feel very proud as Filipino.”

For her part, Xyza Cruz Bacani posted on Facebook: “Thank you HIPA for the award and to the Filipinos who came and said hi to me! We didn’t get the grand prize but there is always a next time!”

This is the fourth year of the HIPA prizes. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum established the annual competition to demonstrate “the commitment of Dubai to encouraging and supporting art, culture, and innovation. The Award appeals to all talented photographers across the globe, and also nurtures national talent, which will in turn attract international art and cultural attention.”