WPS photo exhibit tells stories, experiences of people in PH-China disputed territories
Date Posted: August 15, 2024 at 02:31 PM
Adamson, through the Cultural Affairs Office (CAO), opened its doors to different photos telling stories of resilience amid uncertainty with the launch of the "Pag-asa sa Gitna ng Kalayaan" photo exhibit by photographer Mr. Paul Quiambao, August 14 at the University Art Gallery.
This collection of photographs offers a glimpse into Filipinos' lives in Kalayaan, Palawan, and the West Philippine Sea. The images vividly depict the challenges and hopes of the island's residents amidst the ongoing territorial disputes in the region.
Dr. Eloisa de Castro, Commissioner of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), highlighted the exhibit's opening ceremony, representing NHCP Chairperson Prof. Regalado Trota Jose.
In her remarks, Dr. De Castro underscored the exhibit's importance in raising awareness about the issues surrounding Kalayaan Island and the broader West Philippine Sea.
“We who live here in the capital of our country may not see the Chinese face-to-face or experience their harassment daily. However, it is our duty to empathize with the people of Kalayaan, Palawan, our defenders in Ayungin Shoal, our fisherfolk in Bajo de Masinloc and beyond,” she said.
“We must amplify their voices so that they can be heard by our countrymen and by the world, especially those who doubt the need to defend them and their homes. This exhibit is our humble contribution to that effort,” Dr. De Castro furthered.
Meanwhile, exhibitor Mr. Paul Quiambao described his work as needed today, considering the issues in the West Philippine Sea and the hostilities the Chinese have shown toward Filipinos.
“Artistic pursuits can catch the public's attention and help enlighten the masses about our nation's maritime situation. Any form of art about the West Philippine Sea is imperative in our society today because it evokes a stronger sense of patriotism for Filipinos, potentially moving them to voice out their sentiments and conviction that the West Philippine Sea is indisputably ours,” he said before sharing some of his first-hand experiences when he took the photos during an expedition to the disputed area in May 2024.
In a gesture of historical significance, Adamson, represented by University President Fr. Daniel Franklin Pilario, CM, and CAO Director Ms. Catherine Cequena, was presented with a copy of the 1754 Carta Hydrographia y Chronographica de las Yslas Filipinas, also known as the Murillo Velarde 1754 Map, during the event.
Known as the "Mother of All Philippine Maps," the 18th-century map, created by Spanish Jesuit priest Pedro Murillo Velarde, illustrated by Francisco Suarez, and engraved by Nicolas dela Cruz Bagay, is celebrated for its detailed and scientific depiction of the Philippine archipelago. It has also played a crucial role in historical and legal discussions, particularly regarding the Philippines' territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea.
The "Pag-asa sa Gitna ng Kalayaan" exhibit is a collaborative effort between CAO, the Pangkasaysayang Samahan ng Adamson University, and NHCP, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of Philippine history and contemporary issues through cultural and educational initiatives.
It was initially displayed at the National Library before moving to the Adamson – the first academic institution to host the exhibit.
The gallery is open to the public and invites reflection on the resilience of the Filipinos in Kalayaan and the broader implications of the territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
The exhibit will run until the end of August 2024.
