In Taguig City, an art exhibition titled ‘Liberation of Manila: 80 Years of Remembrance through Art’ opened its doors to the public, celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Manila during World War II. The exhibit showcases the works of prominent Filipino artists, including National Artist Fernando Amorsolo, Diosdado Lorenzo, Nena Saguil, and Galo Ocampo, offering a poignant reflection on the devastation and resilience of the period.
The opening was attended by US Ambassador to Manila, MaryKay Carlson, who emphasized the power of art to transcend time and capture history as lived experiences rather than mere facts. The exhibit, which will run until February 25, is hosted at the Visitor Center of the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial.
Among the highlighted pieces is Amorsolo’s ‘Burning of Sto. Domingo’, depicting the fiery destruction of the historic church in 1941. Originally built in 1588, the church was destroyed during the Battle of Manila and later rebuilt in Quezon City.
Other notable works include Ocampo’s ‘Ruins of the Legislative Building’, which captures the aftermath of the building’s use as a Japanese stronghold, now the National Museum of Fine Arts. Lorenzo’s ‘Ruins of Sales Street, Quiapo’ reflects the destruction of a lively district known for its markets and heritage, while Saguil’s ‘Ruined Gate of Fort Santiago’ portrays the damage to the iconic fortress in Intramuros, symbolizing the city’s resilience.
The artworks are on loan from the National Museum of the Philippines’ Fine Arts Collection, part of a broader commemoration of the Liberation of Manila on February 22. The Manila American Cemetery, hosting the exhibit, is the world’s largest overseas American military cemetery and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with free admission and guided tours available.