By PR | 08:59 AM October 05, 2024
The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP)-Bohol officially launched Museums and Galleries Month (MGM) 2024 on October 1 with a lecture series titled “Why Museums Matter.”
Held at the CPG Courtyard, NMP-Bohol, the event featured Atty. Ma. Cecilia U. Tirol, Visayas National Museums Director II, as the keynote speaker.
This year’s MGM carries the theme “Honoring Traditions, Fostering Innovations,” emphasizing the significance of balancing cultural heritage with modern advancements.
Rachelle Lacea, head of NMP-Bohol, warmly welcomed participants, including members of the academe and local tour guides from the Bohol Island Tour Guides Association of the Philippines, Inc. (Bitgap).
The provincial government of Bohol, through the Center for Culture and Arts Development, strongly supports the celebration, highlighting the province’s status as the first Unesco Global Geopark in the Philippines and its dedication to preserving cultural heritage.
During the open forum, Tirol addressed various questions, including those about Bohol’s Unesco designation and the support provided by the local government. Tour guides noted an increase in tourist numbers since the Unesco Global Geopark designation, with many visitors expressing curiosity about the recognition.
MGM, celebrated every October in the Philippines, honors the nation’s museums and galleries while fostering national pride and consciousness. It highlights the vital connection between art, culture, and nation-building.
Established through Presidential Proclamation No. 798 in 1991, the event showcases exhibitions that embody unity and national identity, underscoring the essential role of cultural heritage in shaping the country’s future.
This year’s MGM theme encapsulates the challenge of promoting cultural evolution while preserving heritage—especially in a province like Bohol where traditions run deep. Cultural institutions are called to honor the past while shaping the future, nurturing an environment where both innovation and tradition can thrive.
As part of the MGM celebration, NMP-Bohol will host a series of plenary lectures, including discussions on storytelling, conservation, and global geoparks. Following the lectures, participants will be treated to tours of notable local museums such as Museo Parroquial de Baclayon on October 11, Amarela Resort Art Gallery on October 18, and Nova Shell Museum on October 25. These activities, conducted in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Bohol and partner museums, aim to deepen participants’ appreciation of cultural significance, particularly within the Bohol Island Geopark.
Museum enthusiasts can also look forward to “Sabado Nights Sa Museo,” a weekend Crafts and Crops Bazaar that will showcase Bohol’s vibrant culture and heritage. Visitors can enjoy traditional Boholano food and drinks at the azotea while supporting local artisans. Concessionaires include Tubigon Raffia Gallery, Purple Women, Makata Shirts PH, YMMYLYN ART, DYNA 3D, VM Museum & Gallery, and Weave Joy. It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse in local craftsmanship and flavors, all while celebrating Bohol’s rich cultural tapestry.
NMP-Bohol is open to the public from Tuesdays to Sundays, 9 a. m. to 5 p. m., with free admission. Visitors can explore fascinating exhibits, including an installation featuring the underwater beauty of the Danajon Bank Double-Barrier Reef by the Tubigon Raffia Gallery, offering a glimpse of Bohol’s natural wonders.
The provincial government of Bohol, under Gov. Aris Aumentado, remains committed to preserving the province’s cultural heritage. Through events like these, the youth are actively involved in safeguarding the Boholano culture, ensuring that Bohol’s stories and traditions continue to be passed down to future generations. (PIMO/ML)
