MANILA, Philippines - Artists, celebrities and ink enthusiasts by the thousands trooped to the World Trade Center last Sept. 27 and 28 to get their regular dose of a year’s worth of art and ink at Dutdutan Trece.
The two-day colossal event housed 140 tattoo booths, a number bigger than last year’s. Four hundred of the best local and international artists from Singapore, Hawaii, Germany, Malaysia, California, Las Vegas, Guam and Canada demonstrated and displayed their own breed of ink. Showcasing vivid, larger-than-life tattoos, Dutdutan Trece continually advocated the incredible skills this country and the world has to offer.
The main event that drew thousands from the flock was the tattoo competitions, which was presented by Tribal Gear Philippines. It featured exceptional pieces by notorious inkers who competed in 14 categories. “Tattoo of the Day†remained the most coveted award since entries for this category were created on the day itself. Collectors showed off the baddest and dopest art works etched on skin and gave judges the hardest time.
Tribal clique
Dutdutan Trece received solid support from Tribal founder Bobby Ruiz, Unauthorized Ink’s infamous Big Tiny, and world-renowned tattoo artist Steve Soto of Goodfellas Tattoo. The electricity of the crowd multiplied 10-fold as P.O.D. (Payable On Death) conquered the stage two nights in a row with their fierce alternative rap metal sounds.
URCC and Bikini
URCC’s hardcore exhibition matches were also held. Combat display invaded Dutdutan Trece with five separate fights from different weight classes. Ten of Tribal Gear’s hottest babes navigated the WTC catwalk and teased audiences on Saturday night. Cameras and phones flashed as gorgeously toned bodies in skimpy outfits lit up the arena.
Detonation
Tribal Project’s Detonation, a photo competition launched last year, received overwhelming response from the detonator-participants. Entries were planted, and explosive, badass pics were chosen, and shooting the dopest authentic Tribal lifestyle-inspired picture was Robert Sarayba.
Drum duel and band-demonium
It was one true drum king to rule the kingdom!
Dutdutan’s Drum Duel, on its fourth year, called on amateur drummers with the skills, style and substance worthy of a true Drum King. Intensely-charged sets were performed by General Luna, Indio I, Skychurch, Dong Abay & The Tanods, Peryodiko, Franco, Chicosci, Joey Ayala and Kamikazee.
Dutdutan Trece was presented by Tribal Gear, co-presented by Skinworkz Tattoo & Philtag. Sponsored by Colt 45, Pepsi, Kenny Rogers, JB Music, Padis Point, Victoria Court and Avatar Tattoo. With media partners FHM, Philippine STAR, Magic 89.9, Jam 88.3, Wave 89.1, Gala magazine, and Clavel magazine.