Makati in times of ...
Ayala Avenue and Paseo de Roxas have emptied, silence has settled at Ayala Triangle, only some motorbikes are audible once in a while. For some time, Makatizen have been confined to their homes. Some are most probably alone and wonder how to tame this loneliness. Others are staggered by a full-time reunion with their family.
In these circumstances, everything is mixed, work, school, outings, responsibilities, and diversions.
Politicians are fast to answer with a frightful speech. We are at war. What a “war” - where we keep shopping and watching TV, streaming, and wondering what to do. The ones experiencing the "war" are those who are in the turbulence of hospitals, and in the clash of decisions to save us.
Manila, a shopping fever paradise, is quieter than ever imagined. What will happen when the lockdown stops? Will our days resume where we left them? Will our preferences and decisions change? What time where we can question our personal engagement, our global perceptions?
The following times certainly cannot be like business as usual. In solitary, we recognize - the human part is missing. It is a bitter taste without the company of friends and family. Yes, sometimes, they are messing up and damaging our happiness, freedom, and whatnot. But in times where we are alone in such a big, seemingly empty city, we are missing, especially these Humans.
Photography is, for a long time, a value that is part of my life and role of my social network. There, in different groups, virtual and real, we help each other and I found so many friends -incredible!. For me, Photography took over a long time ago. It's a must; there is no choice; I feel forced to relate things in different ways. If only to keep memories of what I see, feel, and experience. It is a lifelong task, always learning, experiencing different cultures, ongoing education, and ...
My latest project is - don’t wonder - Makati in the time of …
The places I took images off had been full of people some weeks ago. Now nearly empty because decrees prohibit people from going out, as — in the good old days, we hopefully might say in a while. I pass these places not by chance, but on my way to work or shopping. I intend to continue documenting my surroundings photographically to open my mind for the changes now and in the future. Looking forward to exchanging with comprehension and reverence what might come in the future.
