Pistaym

CEBU, Philippines - A unique exhibit showcasing American Period photographs of Cebu celebrated its opening last January 18, bringing new meaning to the old French saying, “the more things change, the more they remain the same.”

   Presented by Hamiling Binilin, Pistaym stands as a tribute to one of the most peaceful and prosperous chapters in Cebu’s history, with 76 original photos of old Cebu offering its viewers deeper insight into the nature of American colonialism and the representation of Cebu through photography as a medium.

   Featuring images focusing on the day to day undertakings of Cebuanos in the past, images capturing some of Cebu’s famous and notable landmarks, and images illustrating the peaceful and progressive growth of Cebu at the time, Pistaym’s on-exhibit photos are part of the Uytingchua Family’s collection of vintage photographs, a collection which is carefully kept and maintained by Ben Chua of Hamiling Binilin and the Uytingchua Family.

   Far from simply showcasing vintage photographs of old Cebu, Pistaym’s overall premise goes beyond bringing its viewers to the past, but also gives emphasis in the value of photography as history’s silent, unbiased and honest archivers – a value which has somewhat become trivialized today, with the ready availability of advanced digital imaging technologies.

   Presented in cooperation with the Jose R. Gullas Halad Museum, the Downtown Revitalization Project of the Cebu City government, and Smart Communications Inc, Pistaym takes a retrospective look of Cebu’s yesteryears, not inclined towards simply being there just for the sake of being there, but intent in reminding everyone of Cebu’s historical roots and the historic direction it is treading on today.

Pistaym will be on exhibit until February 18, 2013 in Viviende del Teniente, Fort San Pedro, Cebu. Select vintage photos of old Cebu are also on exhibit in Jose R. Gullas Halad Museum, located in V. Gullas St, cor D. Jakosalem St.