This is a collection of works, except for the last piece, assembled in chronological order to show how the Philippines has progressed through history. Despite large populations of Filipinos in the United States and throughout the world in general, few people really know its history or even major events. This collection serves to showcase what I believe to be the most important events in Philippine history to show what my country has been through and what it is capable of enduring.
Diorama 5: Rice Terraces, Ifugao, circa 1150 AD, Ayala Museum Staff (Historians, Researchers, Artists) and Artisans from Paete, Laguna, 1974 - 2011, From the collection of: Ayala Museum
The Philippines is a country born in struggle. Literally carving from the mountains to grow food and survive, here the Philippine people can be seen doing what they do best; work hard and persevere.
Diorama 9: The First Mass in the Philippines, 1521, Ayala Museum Staff (Historians, Researchers, Artists) and Artisans from Paete, Laguna, 1974 - 2011, From the collection of: Ayala Museum
This piece is to show the deep rooted beliefs of the Filipino people and to add an aspect of faith in how the Philippines has grown and continues to grow despite poverty, disaster, and disease.
Diorama 15: The First Book, 1593, Ayala Museum Staff (Historians, Researchers, Artists) and Artisans from Paete, Laguna, 1974 - 2011, From the collection of: Ayala Museum
"The First Book" highlights the importance of learning and knowledge to the Filipino people. I can personally attest to this in how my parents instilled in me an appreciation for education.
Diorama 39: Proclamation of Independence from Spain, Cavite, 1898, Ayala Museum Staff (Historians, Researchers, Artists) and Artisans from Paete, Laguna, 1974 - 2011, From the collection of: Ayala Museum
Here is the start of what comprises most of the struggle of the Philippines; subjugation by other countries.
Diorama 55: Japanese Forces Occupy Manila, 1942, Ayala Museum Staff (Historians, Researchers, Artists) and Artisans from Paete, Laguna, 1974 - 2011, From the collection of: Ayala Museum
Occupied by Japanese forces, the Filipino people in the piece still stand proud despite the coming trucks full of soldiers. This event also furthered American influence in the Philippines.
Diorama 60: Recognition of Philippine Independence by the US, Manila, 1946, Ayala Museum Staff (Historians, Researchers, Artists) and Artisans from Paete, Laguna, 1974 - 2011, From the collection of: Ayala Museum
After the events of the previous piece, the Philippines continued to serve under the U.S. because of the U.S.'s promise of independence, which can be seen being granted here.
Diorama 59: The Return of General MacArthur, Leyte, 1944, Ayala Museum Staff (Historians, Researchers, Artists) and Artisans from Paete, Laguna, 1974 - 2011, From the collection of: Ayala Museum
In light of the typhoon that laid ruin to not only the country but also the lives of its people, this piece acts as a reminder of how helpful the U.S. has been and continues to be to the Philippines.
New Christ, Pablo Baens Santos, 1980, From the collection of: National Heritage Board, Singapore
This work is not related to history but instead the future. Created by a Filipino artist, it perfectly encompasses the struggle that is behind the figure and the triumph that lies ahead.
Credits: All media
This user gallery has been created by an independent third party and may not represent the views of the institutions whose collections include the featured works or of Google Arts & Culture.
