In A Token of Our Friendship: Philippine Photos of Male Affection, First Half of the 20th Century, both a book and an exhibition, collector and curator John Silva shares part of his collection of photographs accumulated through photo fairs, antique stores, family and friends. These selected photos explore male affections that are platonic, familial or romantic, among other forms.

The photographs were carefully selected by Silva, considering first that affection was indeed present. The clarity and quality of the photograph was a second factor for selection. Pictures were neither edited nor enhanced; Silva simply had to clean the grime off the photos.

Interesting in the film photographs are snippets of history from the photography studios to the elaborate props and backdrops they used to the American and European way of dressing by the Filipinos. The photographs, some of which are postcards, contain affectionate messages in English, Filipino and Spanish. It's a reflection of how the country evolved through education and foreign influence as well as how meaningful these messages are. With the absence of advanced communication technology, "thinking of someone" or "asking someone to remember you", are signs of strong affection.

The book includes more photos and historical information as well as Silva’s insights on these. The book is designed by Ige Ramos and includes its foreword by Silverlens Director, Isa Lorenzo. Partial sales of book and photos will benefit organizations promoting local HIV prevention.

A Token of Our Friendship, Philippine Photos of Male Affection, First Half of the 20th Century curated by John Silva opens on June 29, Wednesday, 6-9pm simultaneously with On the Radar: Six New Symptoms curated by Gary-Ross Pastrana featuring Catalina Africa, Dina Gadia, Gail Vicente, Marija Vicente, Ryan Villamael and Maria Jeona at SLab and Few and Far Between by Hanna Pettyjohn at 20SQUARE.

John Silva will have an Artist Talk as a related Gallery Event on July 2, Saturday, 3- 5pm at Silverlens Gallery. This event is free of charge. To RSVP, please call 8160044 or email manage@silverlensphoto.com.

Words by Jel Tordesillas