Kublai Millan, a renowned sculptor and painter, is holding an exhibition at The Manila Hotel's Art Gallery for the entire month of August 2024. The exhibition, titled "The Land of Premise," delves into the complex history and identity of Mindanao, the artist's home region.

Millan's work reflects on the "land of promise" premise that once defined Mindanao, exploring the region's rich traditions, knowledge, and wisdom.

"Look at the title and reflect on it. Think back to your experiences as students in elementary and high school. About 100 years ago, the government declared Mindanao the 'Land of Promise.' What was the premise of this declaration? To understand it, you need to dive deep into your own knowledge and experiences. I, myself, am a product of that promise," Millan, who was born in Cotabato City but grew up in Davao City, shared during the opening ceremony of the exhibit on August 1, 2024.

Kublai also emphasized that "Land of Premise" is more than just an artistic showcase; it is a bridge to understanding Mindanao’s rich heritage and future possibilities. “Words cannot build a future, only actions and resources can. Know the premise so we can conceive a fulfillable promise,” he said.

The opening reception featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Kublai Millan, along with Marvin Kim Tan, Vice President for Sales and Marketing at The Manila Hotel, Jeremy Barns, Director-General of the National Museum of the Philippines, Cecile Guidote Alvarez, founder of the Philippine Educational Theater Association, Nancy dela Rosa, wife of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, and Flora Chua, a member of the Board of the Philippine Cancer Society. 

The event was attended by prominent figures, including Dr. Jaime Laya, President of Philtrust Bank, Atty. Elba Cruz, CEO and Chief Curator of the Manila Clock Tower Museum, and representatives from the Office of the Vice Mayor, City of Manila, and the Department of Tourism, Culture, and Arts of Manila. 

Premise behind the title

The exact person who first coined the term "Land of Promise" for Mindanao is difficult to pinpoint. However, the moniker likely emerged during the early to mid-20th century, when the island's vast agricultural potential and rich natural resources became increasingly apparent.

It's probable that government officials, agricultural experts, or early settlers who saw the island's immense possibilities were among the first to use the term. The phrase gained popularity as a way to attract settlers and investors to Mindanao, emphasizing its untapped potential for development and prosperity.

Through Millan's sculptures and paintings, he challenges the audience to look back and reflect on the true meaning of this promise. The artist's personal experiences, including his activism in the 1970s and his father's efforts to improve the lives of his children, have deeply influenced his artistic expression. 

His works serve as a testament to the power of art to capture the values and stories of a place, inviting the audience to engage with the messages embedded in his creations. The exhibition serves as a thought-provoking exploration of identity, tradition, and the enduring legacy of the "land of promise" concept, inviting visitors to contemplate the complexities and nuances of Mindanao's history and future.

(Photos by Arnold Quizol | Manila Bulletin)