Despite all that the Philippines and Manila suffered during the war I could detect no animosity towards Japanese people among the Filipinos I met. I think this is remarkable but this generosity of spirit seems to be a national trait. Coming from Northern Ireland, where we clutch our animosities tightly through generations, this is particular noticeable. Yes, Manila can be a violent place, and some of the conflicts in the country have been, and are, brutal, yet there is an openness, a willingness to accept and welcome former enemies that is quite remarkable.
Links
- Manila American Cemetery at the American Battle Monuments Commission website.
- Philippines Government website on the Battle of Manila (not all the links work but there is a lot of good information here).
Jim Grey says:
These are stunning images, with perfect composition and exposure. I hope one day to be able to make images this powerful and expressive. Well done.
6 July 2020 — 12.41 am
ollithomson says:
Thank you for your kind words. Appreciated.
6 July 2020 — 8.40 am
monettelyan says:
Beautiful images! I’ve been wanting to visit this place for sometime, but only had time to visit Corregidor last February. A few years ago, on a trip to Los Baños in Laguna, one of the places we visited was the sites where General Yamashita and General Homma were executed.
My grandma lived through WWII, and always shared stories of the hardships her family experienced during the war. I think she would understand how your friend Jimmy felt.
7 July 2020 — 8.59 am
ollithomson says:
Thank you Monette. Glad you like them. I’ve followed your blog but never taken the opportunity to look through your archives. Now I see how much you have I think I need to spend some time browsing.
7 July 2020 — 4.44 pm
Brandi says:
Thank you for the history lesson and for these gorgeous photos. Very moving.
11 July 2020 — 4.03 pm
ollithomson says:
Thanks Brandi.
11 July 2020 — 6.34 pm
Sam says:
This is a stunning collection of images and commentary. I agree, the Filipinos I know have a wonderful warmth and generosity. I’ve worked with many, taught many, and am always warmed by their graciousness. What is it in a culture that makes such characteristics? The Thai have it, too. As you have said, the Irish do hold on tightly onto the past, and other mourn what is perceived to be lost.
12 July 2020 — 3.11 pm
ollithomson says:
Thanks Sam. It’s hard to say what makes the difference. We did wonder if part of it was such a tumultuous history of violence and natural disasters leading people to a kind of acceptance as a survival mechanism, but that doesn’t explain the kindness. I also noticed a very generous and gracious attitude among people in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos which we visited when we lived in the Philippines.
13 July 2020 — 6.50 pm
Kate Johnson says:
Al I can say is WOW! Truly Magnificent Photography.
16 July 2020 — 3.49 am
ollithomson says:
Thank you Kate. I’m glad you like them. I see from your website you have a very impressive collection of film cameras, including the Minolta XD. That is one I also have in my much smaller collection. It’s a lovely camera that I don’t use often enough. Inspired by seeing it on your site I loaded it up with film and plan to do some shooting over the next few days.
17 July 2020 — 9.03 pm