Kidlat Tahimik’s art installations enliven Mactan-Cebu Int’l Airport

LAPULAPU CITY – Several eye-catching art installations of the country’s National Artist—Kidlat Tahimik enliven the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) Terminals 1 & 2 redefining the travel experiences of local travelers and foreign tourists as they step into Cebu’s iconic airport, the gateway from the south.

On November 25, 2024, Kidlat Tahimik’s masterpiece-a grand galleon installation and the Trojan Horse- take center stage at the MCIA- Terminal 2 check-in area, alongside his iconic installations from the National Museum of the Philippines.

“MCIA is committed to becoming a world-class tourism and transfer gateway, a place where every traveler feels a sense of adventure and cultural interaction. An airport is not just a building—it’s a hub where people connect, and Kidlat Tahimik’s masterpieces embody this spirit perfectly,” Athanasios Titonis, CEO of Aboitiz InfraCapital GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation, highlighted the alignment of Kidlat Tahimik’s work with the airport’s vision.

This launch honors Tatay Kidlat's passion for storytelling as these pieces of art become a symbol of cultural exchange and a tribute to the vibrant Filipino spirit.  Visitors experience the fusion of tradition and innovation that defines his artistry, as the installation invites travelers to journey through time and space.

Unveiling of Kidlat Tahimik’s biggest Installation at MCIA Terminal 2 is a historical journey as he narrated  the story of the  circumnavigation of the world not by a Spaniard or a Portuguese but of a Filipino from Lapulapu—Enrique de Malaka who completed the circumnavigation of the world as he came back to his homeland, Mactan Island after he was freed as slave after the death of Ferdinand Magellan in the “Battle of Mactan” in 1521.

Tatay Kidlat, as he is popularly called is a National Artist for Film whose groundbreaking works have shaped the landscape of Philippine independent cinema. As a visionary storyteller and a trailblazer of the Third Cinema movement, he critiques neocolonialism with humor, heart. and profound artistry.

Over the years, he has earned international acclaim, cementing his legacy as the "Father of Philippine Independent Cinema.” Beyond film, Tatay Kidlat is also a celebrated installation artist, captivating audiences with his unique ability to weave history, culture, and imagination into thought -provoking works of art.

Kidlat Tahimik’s masterpiece-a grand galleon is called the 1521 installation that he conceived and assembled with the Victoria Galleon done by Jun Ritumalta; Magellan and Enrique figures by Chris Ation & Apilis Mahiwo.   

The Junk-tin armor of Magellan by Randy Gawwi & Chris Atiwon while the Bamboo-sheat Waves also by Randy Gawwi; Plague Doctors by Dehon Taguyungon; Corona Cannonballs by Kigao Rosimo and Sails Tapestry by Carlo Villafuerte & China Valdez.

The installations are part of MCIA’s ongoing mission to transform the airport into more than just a transit point, but a vibrant space for cultural exchange and discovery.  Moreover, his works pay tribute to our balikbayans, particularly our unsung heroes—the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

“This ties in with our ‘Ceb Balik’ program, which celebrates the invaluable contributions of these modern-day heroes and welcomes them back home with a sense of pride and belonging,” Titonis added.

Adding to the experience, Terminal 1’s Grand Lobby features two additional installations by Kidlat Tahimik: Galleon Des Frayles, a striking representation of Magellan’s arrival to Mactan aboard the Victoria Galleon, and Bulakna Conquers Magellan, a reimagined narrative celebrating indigenous resilience and courage.

“At MCIA, we envision the airport as a destination itself, not just a stopover. These incredible art displays serve as a gateway to the Philippines’ and Cebu’s rich history. Beyond their visual appeal, these installations share the identity and culture of the Philippines, immersing travelers in the vibrant stories that define us as a people. By showcasing Kidlat Tahimik’s works, we aim to create an environment that inspires curiosity and cultural appreciation among passengers,” Ricia Montejo, Head of Customer Experience at Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation, elaborated on how these artworks enhance MCIA’s role as a tourism gateway.

Kidlat Tahimik’s installations not only reflect his renowned artistry but also reinforce MCIA’s commitment to celebrating heritage and innovation. The unveiling underscores MCIA’s dedication to delivering a world-class travel experience that is deeply rooted in Filipino identity.

Travelers and visitors alike are invited to explore these installations, which transform MCIA into more than an airport—it becomes a bridge between history, culture, and the world. (Photos: MBCNewman)