Inside the museum, a labyrinth of galleries unfolds, each dedicated to a different facet of Cebu’s rich history and culture–from the ancient artifacts of the Lapu-Lapu era to the intricate craftsmanship of Cebuano weavers.
The air crackled with anticipation as the sun rose over Cebu City on July 28, 2023. Spectators, composed of both locals and foreigners, gathered before the newly constructed National Museum of the Philippines-Cebu to witness its inauguration.
After its opening, the newly transformed historical building has quickly become a favorite destination among tourists and, in fact, is now dubbed the new cultural landmark in Visayas.
“This is in line with our national agenda to promote tourism and, just as importantly, to nurture our national identity,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. declared as he addressed those who witnessed the inauguration of the museum.
A museum buff himself, President Marcos said: ”It is a milestone not only for the Queen City of the South and the whole province of Cebu, but for the entire country, as the opening of this museum brings to the fore our rich cultural and artistic treasures.”
The museum is a marvel of modern architecture, seamlessly blending traditional Filipino design elements with contemporary aesthetics. Inside the museum, a labyrinth of galleries unfolds, each dedicated to a different facet of Cebu’s rich history and culture, from the ancient artifacts of the Lapu-Lapu era to the intricate craftsmanship of Cebuano weavers.
The museum’s centerpiece is the “Cebuana” exhibit, showcasing the vibrant traditions and artistry of Cebuano women. Intricately woven textiles, delicate jewelry, and traditional costumes tell the story of their resilience, creativity, and enduring influence on the island’s cultural heritage.
For many Cebuanos, the museum represents a long-awaited opportunity to connect with their heritage on a deeper level.
“I’m so proud to finally have a place where we can celebrate our culture and share it with the world. This museum is a gift to our community, a reminder of our shared history and a beacon of hope for the future,” a Mactan resident said.
In his message during the inauguration, President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. said, ”It is a milestone not only for the Queen City of the South and the whole province of Cebu, but for the entire country, as the opening of this museum brings to the fore our rich cultural and artistic treasures.”
A Historic Landmark with a Renewed Purpose
Established in 2010, the venue originally served as the Bureau of Customs headquarters. Since then, it has been used by various government offices; the last of which is the Malacañang sa Sugbo, which served as the official Presidential residence in the region.
Through the years, however, the building faced significant challenges, including a 7.1-magnitude earthquake in 2013, the devastation of Typhoon Yolanda, and years of neglect, which prompted the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) to gather funds for its renovation.
TIEZA, the infrastructure arm of the Department of Tourism (DOT), in adherence to the “Build Better More” espoused by President Marcos, prioritizes the construction, renovation, and maintenance projects of tourist spots or tourism-related programs.
During the museum’s inauguration in 2023, President Marcos witnessed Cebu’s biodiversity, archaeological treasures, art, and maritime traditions.
Preserving Culture and Driving Tourism
TIEZA, the infrastructure arm of the Department of Tourism, prioritizes projects that bring sustainable benefits to communities. The transformation of Malacañang sa Sugbo into the National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu exemplifies this vision by fostering cultural preservation and promoting tourism.
Through this initiative, TIEZA ensured the conservation of the building’s architecture while creating opportunities for education, employment, and economic growth within the local community. The museum has become an invaluable educational resource for locals and visitors. It features exhibitions on Cebu’s biodiversity, geology, archaeological treasures, art, and maritime traditions. The museum has become a space for Cebuanos to reconnect with their roots and share their heritage with future generations.
President Marcos closely examines an ancient artifact on display at the National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu.
A Boon for Local Tourism and Economy
Beyond its economic and educational contributions, the museum serves to bridge Cebu’s past to its future. Its exhibitions capture the Cebuano spirit and celebrate the region’s cultural diversity. For instance, works by renowned Cebuano artist Martino Abellana are exhibited in the museum, showcasing the richness of local artistic heritage.
The museum also highlights the significance of collaborative efforts in nation-building. Its successful restoration and inauguration reflect the shared commitment of TIEZA, the National Museum of the Philippines, and local government units in preserving the nation’s cultural assets.
Bridging the Past and Future
Beyond its economic and educational contributions, the museum serves to bridge Cebu’s past to its future. Its exhibitions capture the Cebuano spirit and celebrate the region’s cultural diversity. For instance, works by renowned Cebuano artist Martino Abellana are exhibited in the museum, showcasing the richness of local artistic heritage.
The museum also highlights the significance of collaborative efforts in nation-building. Its successful restoration and inauguration reflect the shared commitment of TIEZA, the National Museum of the Philippines, and local government units in preserving the nation’s cultural assets.
The National Museum of the Philippines-Cebu inspires future generations to appreciate and protect their heritage. By housing artifacts of historical significance and celebrating the region’s rich traditions, the museum ensures that the stories of the past remain vibrant for years to come.
Inspiring Generations
As a cultural and educational institution, the National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu inspires future generations to appreciate and protect their heritage. By housing artifacts of historical significance and celebrating the region’s rich traditions, the museum ensures that the stories of the past remain vibrant for years to come.
TIEZA’s vision, realized through this project, reflects a broader commitment of preserving the nation’s cultural treasures while generating tangible benefits for the community. By opening its doors to visitors, the museum not only showcases the beauty and history of Cebu but also sets the stage for a brighter, culturally enriched future for the Visayas and the entire Philippines.
Indeed, the National Museum of the Philippines—Cebu is more than just a building; it is a living repository of history and a beacon of Filipino pride. Through its preservation, TIEZA has ensured that Cebu’s cultural legacy will endure, inspiring generations and solidifying its place as a cultural landmark in the Visayas. (PBS)
