FIFTY years ago Mexico City hosted the 1968 Olympics—the first time they were held in a developing country.
It was not only a matter of pride for Mexico, for the competition represented an opportunity to tighten our ties with nations around the world and develop friendship with its people.
In this context, the World Children’s Painting Festival, “A World of Friendship” took place, where murals and paintings from children of 80 countries throughout the five continents were exhibited in main sites of Mexico City’s landscape. Truly, it was an endeavor worth of praise, since more than 1,800 artworks composed part of the collection.
All of the above was achieved under the vision of Susana Jones, with the support of Arch. Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, the authors of the project. Their vision: “A World of Friendship was a space without borders…a world painted by children, a real place, tangible, capable of offering us new discoveries.”
Filipino children participated
TO celebrate the 50th anniversary of “A World of Friendship” as an occasion that brought together Mexico to the world, the Mexican government, through its diplomatic missions, has been leading efforts to search and find the children—now adults—who were part of the drawing contest.
In our case, I am pleased to reveal that among the participants, 10 Filipino children were included then.
Through the BusinessMirror and this space conceded to me to communicate with the Filipino people, “La Voz de Mexico,” I would like to call on those participants, or any other person who knows one of those former children in the contest, to contact the Mexican Embassy as soon as possible.
We can disclose that these children, who were then 7 to 12 years old, were students of the following academic institutions: Don Bosco Technical Institute, Jose Abad Santos Memorial School, De La Salle College (now, University), University of the East, School of Music and Arts Cultural School and St. Paul´s College.
50th anniversary celebration
THE Philippines’s participation was expected. Moreover, it should not be surprising, considering the deep cultural bond that both our countries have developed for more than 450 years, that has not been affected by the passing of time. On the contrary, this opportunity shows as an ideal moment to renew it.
We want to know the 10 Filipino-juvenile artists, now adults, to share with them the activities that will be held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of “A World of Friendship,” as well as to make them part of it.
Furthermore, we want that the true symbol and meaning of the contest, as well as the Olympic Games, be seen as an opportunity to bring our countries closer. Thus, that Mexico and the Philippines, 50 years later, reunite again.
The Embassy of Mexico in the Philippines may be contacted through embfilipinas@sre.gob.mx, embmxfil@info.com.ph or (02) 812-2211. For more information on the project, visit: https://www.mexico68.org/en. (Screen captures from https://www.mexico68.org/en/painting/history.html)