AS the nation celebrates the 113th anniversary of Philippine Independence, Ayala Land Inc. on Friday kicked-off its month-long celebrations in Makati City dubbed “Colors of Freedom” to honor the country’s heroes for the struggle, blood, sweat and tears, that led to the our independence. The celebration also highlights the 150th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, born in Calamba, Laguna, on June 19, 1861.
“Colors of Freedom,” an explosion of vibrant colors and lively energy that will be filled with art, music and learning, was formally launched with the unveiling of an art exhibit during simple rites at the Ayala Triangle Gardens along Ayala Avenue, Makati City.
The exhibit showcases a 48-square meter art expression of the Philippine flag, as well as sculptures and art installations commemorating significant moments in the country’s history, compiled and written by the Filipinas Heritage Library with the guidance of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
During a brief speech before the unveiling of the exhibit, Meean Dy, vice president of Ayala Land, said the company makes it a point to celebrate the Philippine Independence, because it embodies what Makati is all about.
“Makati is home to over 1 million Filipinos representing the country’s vibrant work force and contributes around 30 percent of the country’s production. It is also home to the country’s top 1,000 corporations and host to the some of the country’s first-class hotels,” she said.
As part of the celebrations, three of the underpasses in Makati’s Central Business District were also transformed into art galleries showcasing different symbolisms of nationalisms centered on Jose Rizal.
Each underpass was designed to give pedestrians a pleasurable walking experience, as well as a journey to artistic renditions of Rizal, courtesy of Ayala Land in partnership with the Center for Art, New Ventures and Sustainable Development.
Among those that will hang along underpass walls are works of contemporary Filipino artists like Raymond Legaspi, Juanito Torres, Leonard Aguinaldo, Michael Cacnio, and National Artist BenCab, representing three different themes.
“Remembering Rizal in Legazpi” will highlight various depictions of him, “Rethinking Rizal in Sedeno” will showcase critical renditions of the national hero and “Reviewing Rizal at Salcedo” will display imagery that pertains to his works and ideals.
Other activities are scheduled on June 15 dubbed Ang Tunog Natin, a free Independence Day concert, featuring some of the most distinguished and promising names in the local music scene.
