An Ode To The Past

Famous for his free-spirited approach in sharing Manila’s history, Carlos Celdran embarks on a new mission to remind us of our country’s past

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C arlos Celdran is known for being a number of things, including a performance artist and a tour guide. But what he is arguably most famous for is his cultural activism, something that prevails in all his works. The whimsicality he injects in his walking tours is just one of the many ways by which he makes history interesting and memorable for his audience, in the hopes of instilling in them an interest and appreciation for local culture. These hopes are put on a grander scale in his latest endeavour— the Manila Biennale. The event, which runs throughout the whole month of February, brings Intramuros to life with the many exhibitions and activities set in place.

What sparked the deep appreciation you have for all things Old Manila?

The obsession I have for Manila is a direct reaction to my sheltered and insular upbringing in Makati. I grew up in Dasmariñas Village, unapologetically upper middle class. I studied in the village, I socialised in the village, and my whole world revolved around the village. It was a comfortable and safe upbringing but an absolute nightmare for any creative spirit. I knew there was more to my city than gated communities, social clubs, and malls. So, when I graduated from high school in 1990, took up Fine Arts at UP Diliman, and began roaming the streets of Intramuros and Malate during my free time. I discovered another side to my city, one that wasn’t so controlled and precious; a city that was exciting, unpredictable, and full of life and culture. Since then, I never looked back.

How did you come up with Manila’s first biennale?