Felix Laureano’s photo “Vista del Rio Bugasong – Antique- Bisayas” captures a glimpse into the landscape of Bugasong, Antique on Panay Island.
Although born in Patnongon, Antique in 1866, Laureano grew up in Bugasong along with his siblings (Santiago, Maria, Consolacion, Vicente, Trinidad, and Jesusa), where their father was assigned as the town priest. Bugasong became an inspiration of the exhibition at the National Museum Western Visayas in Iloilo City in 2023 entitled “Bugasong to Barcelona: Life and Works of Felix Laureano, The First Filipino Photographer”.
Laureano’s photograph likely depicts the river in Bugasong, a vital waterway for the local community. The image portray a scene of daily life along the riverbanks where people gather to fish, bathe, and wash clothes. Taken probably during the late 1890s.
Bugasong, like many other towns in Antique province, has a rich history influenced by indigenous cultures, Spanish colonization, and American administration.
In “Vista del Rio Bugasong- Antique- Bisayas”, Laureano pays homage to his hometown and gives us an invaluable glimpse into our collective heritage, enabling us to preserve, interpret, and appreciate our Filipino identity.
Source:
Recuerdos de Filipinas
Falvey Memorial Library
Villanova University
Pennsylvania, United States
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