The University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P), through the Departments of History and Asia Pacific Studies, is a proud host to the “Pag-asa sa Gitna ng Kalayaan” exhibition organized in collaboration with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP). The exhibit, located at the Hanns Seidel Hall of UA&P, was formally opened to the public on October 09, 2024, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that brought together members of the UA&P community, NHCP representatives, and officials from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Navy.
Featuring the photography of Mr. Paul Quiambao, the exhibit showcases his travels to the Kalayaan Islands in the West Philippine Sea. The collection also includes cartographic treasures from the National Library of the Philippines, a miniature of the BRP Sierra Madre, and the original flag of the Freedom Lands from Admiral Tomas Cloma.
This exhibition not only serves as a valuable educational resource but also fosters a deeper understanding of the significance of the West Philippine Sea in the context of Philippine identity and rights.
In her opening remarks, UA&P Associate Professor and Vice President for Faculty Affairs Dr. Marya Svetlana Camacho highlighted the exhibition’s dual focus on geopolitical issues and human experiences. She stated, “The exhibit deals with the geopolitical issue that has urgently brought these islands to our attention. But it also allows us to see persons on the ground and therefore move from the level of state security… to consider basic, day-to-day human security and ultimately human dignity.”
NHCP Deputy Executive Director for Programs and Projects Alvin Alcid emphasized the importance of familiarizing ourselves with the historical and legal rights tied to the West Philippine Sea, urging attendees to assert these rights amidst challenges.
Previously displayed at the National Library of the Philippines in July 2024, the exhibition at UA&P will run until November 14, 2024. It will culminate with a closing lecture by Retired Chief Justice Antonio Carpio at the Celestino Dizon Auditorium of UA&P.