For years, I would pass by this old decrepit structure a few blocks away from the Manila City Hall. The MET Manila, or The Metropolitan Theater, the place that housed various arts and cultural pursuits, had to close its doors — left to wait for some sort of resurgence. Many years had passed but the halls and walls of the once-known piece of architecture that contributed to the city where it stands to earn its moniker the Paris of Asia, did not hear the applause from the adoring fans of the people who graced this historic place with their art and talent. The last curtain call with no semblance of certainty for will it will be raised again.
Time reveals beauty
Truly, with longevity, we achieve wonderful things. Such is the case for The Metropolitan Theater when it announced in 2021 that it will finally open its doors after numerous attempts to revive its old glory. Before opening to the public, I was able to get to the main hall of the historic theatre. I would consider it as my first time to get into the building, but I was only able to access the main hall lobby. But even if I only witnessed its facade, I could tell that the work they did to restore the building was exemplary.
Come 2023, I finally managed to truly experience being inside such a magnificent piece of art when I hosted the SALIKHA Creative Research Colloquium and Culminating Program. A joint project of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the Commission on Higher Education that gives research grants to Higher Education Institutions across the country for culture and arts research. Perhaps, this is exactly what made the experience more special. I was not there as a spectator. I was there to present and discuss the fruits of the labor of various groups and individuals cultivating efforts to ensure that we continue to link our culture and heritage to the next generations to come.
Witnessing the ethereal grace of The MET
To gain knowledge from creative research in various fields from performing arts, architecture, culinary, indigenous studies, and many more is truly a gift in this day and age of modern technological advancements. Two of the studies I find notable are the creative research from Sultan Kudarat State University entitled Preservation and Documentation of the Manobo and Teduray Handicrafts and its Mathematical and Cultural Implications and the University of Santo Tomas’ JULIO NAKPIL@150 MUSIC PROJECT: Rethinking and Reimagining the Musical Works of Julio Nakpil in the Context of Philippine Modernity, Transculturation and Cultural Nationalism. Both a mouthful to read out loud when you are hosting, but to listen to? Astounding. The two research projects exemplify the flaws, intricacies, and cultural relevance of their respective subjects.
It’s very meta, I’d say. To learn and gain more knowledge about art and culture within the walls of a historical landmark is nothing short of magnifique. But the key takeaway here is how our preservation efforts and drive to keep art and culture relevant are truly alive and kicking. That despite the ever-changing world around us, and time, occasionally, being against these efforts, we continue, nonetheless.
I wish there were more projects that would highlight the efforts and dedication of the groups and individuals who still passionately hold the torch for culture and arts research despite trials and setbacks. May their number grow until the fear of losing our cultural identity becomes as small as the sand on the beach.
