The Politics of Remembrance

As scholars of the humanities and the arts, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of Philippine society by examining its colonial past, the transformation of urban environments, and the legacies of its languages, food, psychology, and Philippine diaspora. Our research outputs underscore how historical and cultural influences continue to shape Filipino collective memory and identity, impacting contemporary life and national consciousness.

In a recently published article by one of the members, “The Politics of Remembrance: The Case of the Filipina Comfort Women Statue and the Kamikaze Pilot Memorial,” Mar Ticao explores the contrasting memorialization of comfort women statues and kamikaze pilot shrines in the Philippines. Part of the Focus Section of The Newsletter by the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS), the articles cover a diverse range of topics—from architecture to political commemoration, the collective works aim to reveal the ongoing influence of colonial history on contemporary Philippine studies, contributing to a richer understanding of the country’s evolving identity. Mar’s essay delves into how political and diplomatic interests shape the treatment of these monuments and highlights the selective nature of collective memory. The article is available in both print and digital formats. Feel free to explore the newsletter. Web|PDF

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The Newsletter is a free periodical published by IIAS. It provides a bridge between specialist knowledge and public discourse, connecting the Asia scholarship community with a broader audience worldwide. It provides a platform for scholars to share research, commentary, and opinion on a wide range of Asian studies topics, fostering meaningful engagement both within and beyond academia. PDF