I’m a photographer and writer based in Metro Manila, Philippines. My work is rooted in storytelling, blending diaristic images and reflective writing to tell stories about identity, family, and the quiet moments that shape us. For me, photography and writing are extensions of how I experience the world—a way to process, reflect, and connect.

I’m also a co-founder of Flint Photo Collective, where I collaborate with friends to create zines, exhibitions, and workshops that spark dialogue and foster community. I see creativity as less about perfection and more about staying curious, embracing the process, and sharing stories that matter.

A black and white picture of James Lontoc taking something out of his bag while holding cup noodles and crossing the street.
2025
Showcasing Personal Work

This year has been marked by exhibitions, talks, and mentorship, as I continue to share my photographic projects and engage with the artistic community.

June
Fotomoto I/LAND Exhibition – Baguio City Leg at BenCab Museum

Participated as one of the featured artists representing Baguio in the touring exhibition.

May
Tigamata Zine Vol. 3: Tenderness

Contributed the cover image of the zine, guest curated by Jessica Lim.

May
Panelist/Critic – VC 136 (Advanced Photography Elective) Final Presentations

Acted as a critic for student presentations at the Fine Arts Gallery (Parola), University of the Philippines, Diliman.

April
Flint x Leica Philippines: Waypoints

Presented a slideshow, Suddenly the colors dance,  in response to Angela Panlilio’s exhibition Of Bypaths and Wonder, followed by a panel discussion with Flint members and Panlilio.

February
Centrefold Exhibition – Ayala Museum

Featured in a special exhibition alongside the Fotomoto I/LAND Open Call, presenting a slideshow version of Sack Tap: The Rupture.

January
Flint x Convenience Cafe x PURVEYR Play – Slideshows & Artist Talk

Presented a slideshow, Taipei Trees in a slideshow event followed by a discussion about artistic practice and process with Gab Mejia and other member of Flint.

2024
Expanding Horizons

This year marked a shift toward mentorship and collaboration, as I took on more roles guiding others in photo editing and project development while continuing to refine my own creative practice.

August
Shortlisted for Gasworks Residency Open Call 2024

Recognized for my artistic practice in a highly competitive open call for artists based in the Philippines.

May
Flint Photo Collective: Slideshows

Flint Photo Collective held its first slideshow event, showcasing works by the four founding members. I presented Ichigo-ya (Strawberry Shop) as part of the program. The event concluded with a process-focused discussion moderated by Eric Bico, exploring the creation and significance of the featured works.

May
Flint Photo Collective: Angkor Edition Slideshows

Flint Photo Collective organized a slideshow event showcasing the works of 32 Filipino alumni from the Angkor Photo Workshop. I presented Sack Tap alongside other featured projects in partnership with Angkor Photo and Foto Baryo.

2023
Collective and Personal Growth

I deepened my connection to the photographic community while growing Flint Photo Collective and refining my personal projects.

December
BKK Artbook Fair

Participated in the Bangkok Artbook Fair with Bad Eyes Collective, sharing independent works with an international audience.

October
to August 2024
Fire Starter: Photo Project Review

Co-led a series of workshops with Flint Photo Collective, focusing on editing, writing, and sequencing participants’ photographic projects. Concluded with a public slideshow night showcasing completed works.

September
PURVEYR Fair

Collaborated with Alternative Apartment to present independent zine and book projects.

July
Our Loverboy zine

Released a personal zine exploring love, heartbreak, and resilience in modern relationships. Asked, “What does it mean to not lose heart despite heartbreak?”

July
Founded Flint Photo Collective

Co-founded Flint with AG De Mesa, Christine Chung, and JL Javier to foster accountability, produce meaningful projects, and support the photographic community.

March
Tarzeer Pictures: Angkor ’23 Slideshow Night

Tarzeer Pictures, a Manila-based gallery, showcased the slideshow output I created during the Angkor Photo Workshop. The event included a panel discussion where I shared insights about the work and my experiences during the workshop, alongside other participating photographers.

January
Angkor Photo Festival and Workshops (18th Edition)

Participated and developed a performative extension of Sack Tap under mentorship at the prestigious Angkor Photo Workshop. The project gained coverage in Cartellino (PH) and Common Affairs (MY).

2018
2018: Recognition and Experimentation

This year provided opportunity to explore and exhibit my work, which later gained recognition for its explorations of masculinity and intimacy.

September
Tarzeer Pictures: Swoon Exhibition

Presented Blood and Balot, a project exploring intimacy within the context of brotherhood and male expression. The work was nominated for the 2018 Ateneo Art Awards, gaining recognition for its nuanced approach to masculinity and relationships.

2016
Learning and Collaborations

I expanded my skills and collaborated with like-minded creatives, shaping my approach to storytelling and zine-making.

June
Grid Magazine Travel Series Workshop: La Union

Participated in a travel photography workshop and won Best Single Image.

June
Mono Collective: Zine Volume 01

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2015
Foundations in Film Photography

These early years laid the groundwork for my creative journey, starting with analog photography and collaborative learning.

September
Mono 101: Film Developing Workshop

Attended a workshop led by Anne Murayama, marking my early steps into analog photography.