Former Manila Mayor and now Buhay Rep. Lito Atienza has filed a resolution calling for an immediate investigation into the disappearance of the Botong Francisco mural from the Bulwagang Antonio J. Villegas at the Manila City Hall.
According to Atienza, the mural, which had been declared a National Cultural Treasure in 1996, has been hailed by art experts as Botong’s last masterpiece and greatest extant work of art.
“When I attended the inaugural ceremonies of newly elected Mayor Isko Moreno a few weeks ago, I saw that instead of the Botong masterpiece, what was installed in the Bulwagan is a poor tarpaulin replica! This is not only illegal, but it is a big slap to Manilans who are asking the question—where is our masterpiece?” the lawmaker said.
“It disappeared from the Bulwagan 12 years ago and until now has not been returned,” he added.
The lawmaker said it behooves all administrations of the city to protect its existence, saying the priceless artwork may now be worth billions of pesos.
“This used to be the major attraction in the Office of the Mayor. During our nine years as mayor, every visitor, Manilan or foreign, always marveled at the grandeur of this priceless artwork,” Atienza said.
“That painting belongs to Manila and should be re-installed in City Hall. We will push for [a] congressional inquiry to pinpoint responsibility for this injustice to the people of Manila. And if necessary, charges should be filed against those who have been remiss in their duty to safeguard the interest of Manilans,” Atienza added.
The mural depicts the history of Manila and its important role in our nation’s history and development, he added.
“We have filed a resolution calling for an immediate congressional inquiry into the whereabouts of the masterpiece by National Artist Carlos ‘Botong’ Francisco. This priceless obra maestra, entitled Filipino Struggles through History, was commissioned by then-Mayor Villegas in 1968,” he said.
Atienza added the mural has always been a source of pride and inspiration for every Manileño and everyone who visited City Hall then.
“This is exactly the purpose of Mayor Villegas who appropriated public funds and commissioned the painting. No one has the right to loan or lend it to anybody. It must be returned to its original place in the Bulwagan in deference to the mayor who, in his patriotic and cultural vision, had it made,” he said.
1 comment
Uhhhh, it’s in the National Museum.