Igorot Artist Tor Sagud is among 2024 Top 20 TOYP Nominees

Tor Sagud

Cordillera - Igorot artist Tor Sagud from Benguet province is among the Top 20 Ten Outstanding Yong Person (TOYP) by the Junior Chamber International (JCI).

JCI a global non-profit organization created for enterprising individuals ages 18-40 with over 500,000 members in more than 100 countries. It focus on professional development, economic opportunities, and creative solutions to address problems across all levels of society.

Tor Alvarez Sagud, also known as “MasTOR,” is a well-known cultural figure in Cordillera, celebrated for his work in preserving and promoting Igorot and Philippine heritage. With deep roots in the Northern Kankana-ey community, his contributions have made a significant impact on the country's cultural landscape.

Here is excerpt from JCI about Tor Sagud:

"Tor's impact on education and the creative industry is substantial. He held the role of department head of Animation at CLSDA, Inc., overseeing the development of animators who contributed to renowned productions such as Disney's Big Hero Six Series, Dragon Ball Z, One Piece, and many more. Today, he stands as the president of Studio Sagud, an organization focused on producing cultural and educational books, and co- chairs Gripo Comics.

Additionally, he played a pivotal role as one of the founders of the Pasa-Kalye Group of Artists, which played a significant part in transforming Baguio City into the ""Creative City"" that it is today.

Tor Sagud has a crucial mission of connecting the local digital creative industry, which includes both registered and unregistered professionals, to local and international clients. This aims to prevent exploitation and develop the growth of the creative industry in the Cordillera region. His work as a modern illustrator is significant for its blend of traditional and contemporary elements, seeking to unite the diverse regional identities within the Cordilleras and the Philippines. His projects focus on promoting and preserving local culture, which holds historical, traditional, and customary significance. Notably, his ""Igorotak Series"" project aims to sell a million units while also contributing to reforestation efforts and addressing unemployment issues in the Cordillera region and the Philippines as a whole. Sagud envisions this initiative as a means to revitalize Cordillera culture and inspire artists from other regions to follow a similar path."