Manila's Merlion

I just read on the Inquirer today that the half-lion, half-fish symbol of Singapore, the Merlion, was once upon a time the symbol of Manila in the late 16th century. Spanish King Philip II allowed the city to use it in its cost of arms. The Merlion can be found in the seal of Manila.

Why is it even simple things of beauty and joy don't seem to last in our country? Why do I get a feeling our country seems cursed?