This breathtaking piece of work is undoubtedly a way to exhibit fellowbeing or shared identity (colloquially known as “kapwa”) – a concept said to be “at the core of Filipino social psychology” in accordance to statistical results showing it to be “at the heart of the structure of Filipino values” (Pe-Pua & Protacio-Marcelino, 2000). In this masterpiece of Amorsolo, one would immediately notice the recognition of and unity of the self with others wherein a complete trust and bond between strangers who are obviously not of blood is currently unfolding. The culture of what others may liken to how life in the province is and the advice that there is a great need for every Filipinos to learn how to “makisama” is also hinted by the abundance of food littered at the left corner of the painting as well as the conformity with the ritual and …show more content…
Some non-believers may diminish this trait by describing it as uncivilized, especially by today’s standards; however, the Church uses its aging spires and dome on the outside and its astounding symmetricity and intricateness on the inside to its advantage by embracing these criticisms in order to point out the indispensability of their belief. This particular Cathedral may have been a victim of countless earthquakes and even by the Battle of Manila since the late 1500s, yet it maintained its majestic structure through the tireless efforts of Filipino officials and devotees who constantly strive to preserve its cracking facades until the eighth version of the cathedral that we know of stands today (The Manila Cathedral, n.d.). To reflect this dedication, Pope John Paul elevated its rank to Minor Basilica and officially named it after one of the highest female figure in the Catholic Church – Virgin Mary, The Mother of Jesus Christ. The majesty of something man-made is utterly lost in them as they offer this to God. Such dedication, effort, and hardships in their personal lives and in building this Church with their bare hands show how intact their belief is to the doctrine of Catholicism. Such is the case as Filipinos think that the Church has been a