BACK IN THE CITY
I did not leave the city. I was physically here, but my mind was somewhere it did not have to work. It is possible. It was as if I was gliding in nothingness and allowed time to stop while events still ensued. In that dull time, I dabbled into renovation work of Angela Apartments, an art deco apartment in downtown Manila http://www.theangelaapartments.com/. It was a revival of a previous work put on hold for 6 years. I love to create newly processed "things," and not recreate the past with a lie. I remember proposing for this building in 2003 where my group introduced the concept of "insertion" to an existing building. Last year, I got a call from the owners seeking my help to finally realize our common dream. It was a noble cause, for a city (Manila) that does not value its existence (majority), there are still people who are willing to invest in it. I accepted it because aside from my deep respect for the owners, I want to contribute to the preservation of one of the few standing art deco buildings in Manila. I was called to put the plans on paper and validate it with a signature. The interiors were done by another firm. The showroom is now being constructed and soon, Manilenos will have an opportunity to live in an authentic old building. We are still waiting. Patiently waiting for Angela to finally fly again.
