My Filmeye

From ashes we rise.

Philippines | Tuesday, November 8, 2011 | 5 photos

Mount Pinatubo erupted in 1991 and covered the entire town of Aglao with ashes. People’s lives were taken, and the entire livelihood of those who survived was buried under a lake created in the aftermath.

Twenty years after, there are still remnants of the tragedy, but none which cannot be outshined by the young generation. Captured in black and white film to give a glimpse of the town’s tragic nostalgia, I wanted to tell the story of how the smiles and the free spirits of the young ones can break through the ashes of the past and reach a beautiful tomorrow.


I believe that the reason for living is to pursue pleasure every single day. And by pleasure I mean, are the things that make your heart feel alive, your mind inspired and your spirit free. I’ve done different things in my life, but what I’ve realized is that nothing makes me feel these things strongly as when I’m out there on the field, capturing life in its truest. These moments make me happy, and I dream of living in these moments more and more each day. I’m hoping that you can also be convinced that I deserve a shot at this dream.


Henri Cartier-Bresson inspires me to capture real life in its decisive moments. I know I have a lot to learn. Our world is full of meaningful stories that don’t only deserve our eyes, but our deep understanding as well. I wish to learn how to go even deeper into these stories that I try to capture. Through passionate photographers such as you, I yearn to learn so that through my lens, I can tell the stories of the world.

*I hope I at least deserve a click - http://www.talenthouse.com/rachelvillanueva