VENICE—Proud of the world-class talent of its artists and the rich conflicted narrative of its long history under colonial rule, the Philippines on Thursday made its mark in the Venice Architectural Biennale 2018 with a remarkable interpretation of how architecture is able to give “Freespace” to humanity.

The concepts of colonialism and neoliberalism manifested in the architecture of Philippine cities and reflected in day-to-day lives of Filipinos were gems that allowed art lovers and thinkers alike to reflect on their identities in the past, the present and the future.

Senator Loren Legarda, principal architect of the country’s re-entry to the world’s most prestigious exhibition for contemporary art after a 51-year absence, led officials present for the preview prior to the public viewing on May 26.

Legarda, who made time despite the recent reorganization in the Senate, said the Philippine pavilion has secured the country’s rightful place in the global contemporary art scene with its wealth of artistic talent.

“I’m triply excited about it,” said Sen. Loren Legarda, the prime mover in the country’s participation at the Biennale, at a press con at the NCCA. This is the fourth time the country is participating at the Venice Biennale. After 51 years of absence, Legarda, so to speak, moved heaven and earth to secure a spot at the 2015 Venice Biennale and tell the world about the intricacy and beauty of our own culture and heritage.

The Philippine participation at the 16th Venice Architecture Biennale was formally introduced last week at the offices of the National Committee for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in Intramuros. Presenting were key proponent Senator Loren Legarda, NCCA head and National Artist for Literature Virgilio S. Almario, DFA Assistant Secretary Leo M. Herrera (representing DFA Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano), Italian Ambassador Giorgio Gugliemino and Philippine Pavilion curator Dr. Edson Cabalfin.