Chibi Saints: Evoking joy while promoting the faith
by LILA F. MORTEL
JOSE MANUEL “JM” Castillo keeps his chibi saints in pristine condition by keeping them safe in their taped boxes.
According to his friend from Pampanga, a fellow collector, storage is key to preserving their paint job. The statues line Castillo’s room in clear cases, serving as inspiration for his faith. In time he’ll open them to make a display, or take pictures to share his joy.
Their stature is small in size but big in conviction as they serve as reminders of the people who are considered models of the Catholic faith.
Ranging from P180 to P300, chibi saints can be found in both online and in physical stores along with more traditional statues. These figurines stand from a few inches to a foot and can be described as cherubic, being affectionately re...