Ka Bino shares to the participants the life of Modesta Gaisano.
(Photo by Tiarra Cabilla)
AROUND 30 photography enthusiasts in Cebu gathered for “Cementouryo,” an event organized by Local Guides-Cebu, Cebu City Historical and Cultural Affairs Commission (CHAC) and Drift Stories last October 23.
Cementouryo was initiated in 2015 by local guide Balbino “Ka Bino” Guerrero, the research and development specialist of Chaac, together with photographer Herbert Kikoy, to link art to history through a tour.
During the event, photographers roamed around cemeteries to capture interesting scenes.
Doña Pepang Cemetery, Carreta Cemetery and Cebu Chinese Cemetery were the featured cemeteries during the walk.
“One way of preserving history is through photography,” said Ka Bino.
He further explained that for him “cemetery is not just a repository of dead people and memories. It is also a repository of art.”
Participants found the walk very unusual yet informative. Leya Sanchez, a first-time participant of Cementouryo, shared that the walk was very fun. “Aside from enjoying, you also get to learn a lot about the life of different Cebuano public figures through this very unique experience,” she added.
Another participant, Jesson Morata, explained that the unique subjects inside the cemeteries challenged them on how they would take shots that make the situations in there pleasing to the people’s eyes. Morata also said that Cementouryo was also an effective way to promote Cebu. “Even if it is a cemetery, we can still create and generate a tourism attraction.”
They also realized the importance of valuing life. “While we are here, we also need to make the most of our time here on earth,” Morata said.
The walk did not only show the beautiful setting and history inside the featured cemeteries; it also highlighted the current state of the people living there.
Ka Bino emphasized the need of these people for assistance and attention from the government. “If only I have the power to provide them a better home, I will. But it is easier said than done,” he said.
To give treat to the residents situated there, participants were requested to bring goodies for those children living inside. Zacchi Anezka Kikoy, 9, enjoyed the walk because she did not only learn about photography and history but also the goodness of giving. /UP Cebu MassCom student Tiarra Cabilla
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