The Philippines Today, Yesterday, and Tomorrow
SuperstitionCesar LegaspiOil on Canvass, 1982 Blending realism with abstraction, Legaspi uses bold colors and dynamic brushstrokes to depict symbolic figures and dramatic compositions that convey the tension and mystique of these superstitions. This work highlights Legaspi’s technical skill and his ability to address social themes, offering a visual commentary on the pervasive influence of superstitions … Read more
It was Culinarians Day a few months ago and National Cooking Day today, so let’s look at the Kapampángan word for the part of the house that Kapampángans are known to thrive in—the kitchen! How do you say “kitchen” in your language? KUSÍNÂ • (koo-SEE-na’)kitchenTagálog (Filipino): kusínà EtymologyFrom Spanish cocina “kitchen” Derived Words (via Spanish)KUSINÉRA … Read more
The Presentation of the Santo Niño in CebuCarlos “Botong” Francisco1965 Carlos “Botong” Francisco created “The Presentation of the Sto. Niño in Cebu,” which captures a pivotal moment in Philippine history. This painting depicts the introduction of Christianity to the Philippines in 1521 when explorer Ferdinand Magellan presented a statue of the Child Jesus, the Sto. … Read more
A Plea for Freedom from FearFermin Gomez1949 “A Plea for Freedom from Fear” is a hauntingly evocative sculpture by the esteemed Fermin Gomez (1918-1984), capturing the raw emotional landscape of the Philippines during the Japanese Occupation. The artwork, completed four years post-occupation, depicts a mother in agony, clutching her baby, while two children seek refuge … Read more
Upaya It’s also Pardon Day, and coincidentally, the image of the Santo Cristo del Perdón accompanies the Virgen de los Remedios, the Patroness of Pampanga whose feast day is celebrated today. Here’s the Kapampángan word for “power, authority” and the root word for “pardon”! UPÁYÂ • (oo-PAH-ya’)power, authority; pardonTagálog (Filipino): kapangyaríhan EtymologyFrom Sanskrit उपाय (upāya) … Read more