Terry Baylosis, a respected figure in the world of Philippine antiques, continued to influence collectors and dealers long after he closed his antiques store, until his passing in 2024. His legacy lives on through the generations of aficionados he inspired and the significant collection he amassed over decades.
Although Baylosis was well-known for his antique trade, he also curated an impressive private collection, filled with rare and coveted Philippine artifacts. His home in Calatagan, Batangas, became a gathering spot for friends and clients who admired his collection, which included ceramics, period furniture, santos, and ethnographic objects.
Now, some of his most prized possessions are set to be revealed to the public for the first time. Salcedo Auctions will showcase a selection from Baylosis’ estate at their inaugural event in 2025, “The Well-Appointed Life” sale, taking place on March 8 at 2 p.m. The items, previously unknown to many, will be available for live and online bidding.
Among the highlights of the auction are Philippine antiques with historical significance. Featured items include an early 19th-century Batangas Rococo altar table made of balayong wood (PHP 650,000-750,000), a 19th-century Cagayan altar table made from narra wood (PHP 240,000-330,000), and a three-drawer Batangas altar table (PHP 550,000-600,000). Additionally, Maranao maritime artifacts such as a mid-20th-century canoe (PHP 90,000-100,000) and ceremonial bowls (PHP 60,000-70,000) will be available.
Baylosis’ santos collection is also featured prominently, including a life-sized 18th-century ‘San Juan Bautista’ figure in molave wood (PHP 500,000-750,000) and a 19th-century ‘San Vicente de Ferrer’ figure from Panay (PHP 300,000-450,000).
The sale offers a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire pieces that were personally cherished by Baylosis, who took great care in maintaining the authenticity and significance of each item. In his later years, he arranged his collection in a way that each piece faced him, even using a flashlight to illuminate his beloved santos when he could no longer rise from his bed.
Baylosis, who lived to be 86, was more than a collector; he was a protector of Filipino heritage, ensuring the preservation of its craftsmanship and cultural legacy until his final days.
“The Well-Appointed Life” auction will be held live and online, with in-person previews running until March 7 at the NEX Tower, Makati City, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (closed Monday). The event is presented in partnership with UnionBank Elite.
