Erehwon’s Book Team produces Bangko Sentral’s “ultimate book” on its precious collection

The 350-page coffee table book produced by Erehwon Center for the Arts’ editorial and book design team was formally launched by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) last June 22, 2023.  The book entitled, “Kaban: 50 Years of Investing in Philippine Cultural Heritage,” has been regarded by a BSP official as the ultimate book on the bank’s extensive and precious collection.

Kaban features a preface from multi-awarded writer Dr. Jose Y. Dalisay Jr., who declared that the book “highlights the value accorded by the BSP to the idea of wealth: its generation, propagation, and preservation, which is, after all, the core business of banks.”

“The BSP collection is imbued with historical and cultural value,” Mr. Dalisay explained, “and the objects in its catalogues—from ancient coinage and currency to contemporary art and furniture—are physical embodiments of the things and notions we hold dear, our sensibilities and aspirations as a people, the heritage and the legacy we want to pass down the generations.”

Arts educator Portia Placino headed the team of writers and provided guidance on the presentation of the diverse collection.  Other writers included archeologist and academic Victor J. Paz, historical development officer Dino Carlo S. Santos, National Gallery Singapore curator Clarissa O. Chikiamco, and educator and contemporary art curator Tessa Maria T. Guazon.

The book was designed by art director Willie de Vera, who also photographed the entire featured collection, along with photographer JVincent Duque.  Cynthia Alberto Diaz was the copy editor.  Regina Samson managed the project.