In design, perhaps the most difficult pursuit is honesty—honesty in the use of line, shape, and color; honesty in the orchestration of balance, harmony, and movement; and, above all, honesty in service of the subject itself, revealing its essence without obscuring it beneath ornamentation or borloloy.

When the opportunity arose to tell the story of Renato and Letizia—their enduring legacy, their life’s work, and the profound imprint they have left on all of us—and to mount this exhibition at the Yuchengco Museum, no less, I was filled with both awe and anxiety. The circular space was in itself a challenge! But more importantly, how does one begin to contain the breadth of two lives so richly lived, or do justice to the depth of their contributions?

This exhibition is the result of many hands and generous hearts. Through the guidance, vision, and words of my brother Red; the steadfast support of my sisters, Karmina and Kala, and my mother, Dudi; the invaluable insights of designers, Ohm David and Dem Bitantes; the warm support of all Yuchengco personnel; and, above all, the partnership of graphic designer Luna Constantino, whose collaboration and sunshine sustained this project from conception to completion, the exhibition gradually found its form.

What you will see in the exhibit is not a chronological narrative. It is certainly not a complete definitive account – what you will see here is a fraction of what is in boxes we have yet to open at the Constantino Foundation. So just consider this an invitation: to encounter the lives and work of Renato and Letizia; to reflect on the values, convictions, and principles that guided them; and to consider how the past may serve as both anchor and compass as we navigate the future. If this exhibition sparks curiosity, deepens understanding, or inspires reflection, then it has fulfilled its purpose.

Come visit the Pasts Revisted Exhibit, running until July 11, at the Yuchengco Museum in RCBC Plaza, Ayala Ave. cor. Gil Puyat Ave.!