What is the message/meaning of the artwork?

For me, I think the message of the painting presented is the calvary of Lumads in Mindanao. First, it
shows the devastation brought by the different conflicts of colonizers from loggers and miners which are
represented by the cut trees and the sole tree that is left on the upper right side of the painting. Also, it
conveys the downfall between Lumads and the militaries which are represented by the Armalite and the
machete on both hands and also the clothing of the Lumad Christ-like person in the painting. Second, it
visualizes the agony of Lumads through the look of person on the painting which is on the left side (the
destruction). Third and lastly, I think it shows that the representation of Lumad Christ-like person is
Jesus Christ, which could be the only key to unite all people, the Lumads and the colonizers.

How does it relate to the poem “I, Higaonon”?

The relation of the painting to the poem "I, Higaonon" is the message it conveyed. Both of the artworks
showed how colonizers oppress the indigenous people by maltreating them, taking their land, and
destroying peace. And also, it conveyed their agony and the feeling of distress towards those
experiences they are experiencing. In conclusion, both of the works are wake-up calls for us to fight for
other's rights and also a realization that they have also the same rights to us, that's why we should get
back on what's for them.