By Jonathan Shih
In February 1983, a foreigner named Kim Andrew Berry visited the Philippines to get married. His personal journey, which he himself noted "shaped much of the rest of my life," provided a unique lens into Manila at a pivotal time. The photographs in this article are from his original post, serving as a powerful historical record of a city full of life and character.
One of the most captivating images showcases a vibrant jeepney, an undisputed cultural emblem of the Philippines. Renowned for their intricate and personalized designs, these vehicles are a charming adaptation of post-World War II military jeeps and remain a cornerstone of public transportation. This particular jeepney, proudly bearing a "Super Saloon" banner and adorned with elaborate artwork, perfectly encapsulates the unique blend of artistry and utility that defines these mobile masterpieces.
Another shot transports us to the heart of downtown Manila's bustling streets. The scene teems with activity: sidewalks are alive with pedestrians, and the roadways are a dynamic mix of buses, taxis, and more jeepneys. Street vendors are visible, and the juxtaposition of older structures with newer buildings, all beneath a web of overhead power lines, vividly portrays the city's lively urban pulse during that era.
The collection also features an impressive view of the historic University of Santo Tomas (UST). Its grand main building stands as a testament to the university's profound legacy as Asia's oldest existing institution. In the foreground, a statue of a friar presides over a well-maintained garden, emphasizing the institution's deep Catholic heritage and academic prestige.
Further images highlight significant landmarks and everyday scenes: a tranquil, gated area designated "for Ripatada members only," and a sprawling convention center, potentially the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) or a similar venue from the era, bustling with activity. Collectively, these photographs weave a rich tapestry of the past, inviting us to reflect on Manila's distinct character and development.
More than just a traveler, Kim Andrew Berry became an inadvertent chronicler of the Philippines in the 1980s. His images, generously shared, are a precious gift—a powerful reminder that every photograph holds a story, and sometimes, that story can profoundly alter a life's course.
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