Artist Elmer Borlongan warns collectors against fake signed copies of his works

“Warning: Someone is selling unauthorized reproduction of my works with fake signature in an online auction group on Facebook. I know times are hard but don’t fool people with their hard-earned money. It’s also unfair for the artist,” Borlongan wrote.

He added, “Marami na ngang corrupt sa Pilipinas huwag mo ng dagdagan ang panloloko.”

The artist accompanied his warning with screenshots showing listings advertising framed “digital print” reproductions of works that closely resemble his signature figurative expressionist paintings. One listing offered hand-signed digital prints for ₱7,500 in Makati.

Borlongan is regarded as one of the country’s foremost contemporary artists and is best known for his emotionally charged portrayals of ordinary Filipinos. His distinctive style—marked by bald-headed figures, elongated eyes, dramatic lighting, and expressive forms—has made his works instantly recognizable in the Philippine art scene.

A recipient of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ prestigious Thirteen Artists Award, Borlongan has built a decades-long career through paintings that explore the resilience, struggles, and quiet dignity of the Filipino working class.

Unauthorized reproductions and forged signatures have long been a concern in the art market, as they can deceive collectors, undermine the value of authentic works, and infringe on artists’ intellectual property rights.

Borlongan’s warning serves as a reminder for buyers to verify the authenticity and provenance of artworks before making a purchase, especially when acquiring pieces through online marketplaces or social media auction groups.

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