IMAGES OF MANILA – THEN (1946) AND NOW (2010)

Images of Manila - Then (1946) and Now (2010)
Talk by Carlos Celdran
With an introduction to Teodulo Protomartir by Uro de la Cruz
September 8, 2010, Wednesday, 6:30pm

Little known to the general public, Teodulo Protomartir is considered as the Father of Philippine photography, and credited with bringing the 35 mm format to the country. He captured Manila in ruins from the Second World War, its battle wounds, and its restoration. He caught post-war Manila with Filipinos going about their daily business in familiar places like Intramuros, Luneta, Ermita and Quiapo. He took shots as well of buildings and bridges that are no more.

Protomartir was there in 1946 when the Americans gave the Philippines its independence. On July 4, he witnessed the birth of the Philippine Republic: for the first time the Philippine flag flew proudly alone. Filipino crowds cheered, planes flew overhead, floats passed in parade. Protomartir caught it all on still camera. Beyond their importance as historical evidence, Protomartir's images are cultural treasures that are part and parcel of the Filipino's identity and collective memory.

TV director and photographer Uro de la Cruz will give an introduction to Teodulo Protomartir and tell the interesting story of how he serendipitously came across his photographs. And in his inimitable way, Carlos Celdran, celebrated tour guide and authority on Manila's history, will bridge the decades with a talk illustrated with pictures of the places Protomartir photographed in 1946 as they are today in 2010.

For inquiries and reservations, please call Elvie at 4042685 or 0928-5039392.