Museum of the Filipino People

Even before I graduated college, I've always felt the satisfaction brought by knowing the stories behind the present; and I suppose that's the reason why when I was still in school, I excelled in history classes. Mind you, I don't really have a good memorization skill for the dates but somehow, pieces of information stick in my mind without too much effort. It falls on a section in my brain for stock knowledge, and only recently did I realize that it must be in the genes since my parents both love the subject too. 

So it is pretty self-explanatory why I prefer museums over malls. I love discovering things from yesteryears and what's a better place to find all those information than in museums? I know the internet has it but it generates a greater feel of satisfaction when you see it in person. That's exactly how I felt that's why I decided to visit two museums I've long wanted to visit last July 7th, Sunday. 

Being a person who shares the same wavelength and interest on new knowledge with me, Lui tagged along. Our first stop was the Museum of the Filipino People. To go there, we got off at the UN Avenue (LRT1 Line) and walked across Rizal Park. As we arrived at around 9:50AM, we had to wait a little since the museum opens at 10AM. By the way, we went there on a Sunday so admission is free. *winks*

I was still in college when I last went to the Museum of the Filipino People and since it was an abrupt and quick visit, I didn't get to fully appreciate it. All I could remember was the Ifugao house on the quadrangle; and it was still there. 

Basically, the museum was more on the contemporary side. It was divided into different galleries. On the first and second floors were exhibits of the San Diego Galleon. As said, I have a problem with memorizing and remembering so excuse me if I don't get to give you a really extensive review about the galleries. In general though, the galleries displayed showcased the replicas of the ship's remnants, as well as the treasures which were found there. 

But I guess, it's not about remembering what exactly are things displayed in the exhibit. It's about what I felt when I was looking at those things. As I walk around the galleries, looking at the artifacts and whatnots from that ship, I began to wonder what exactly did this ship and all the stuffs it brought to the Philippines do to change the history? I mean, okay, the porcelains and metal wares it brought might have exposed the early Filipinos to a 'new age' and its presence might be a good proof that the Dutch once colonized us too; but other than that, what were its contributions?

I know, it must have done a lot; but I guess, my (assumingly-)logical mind demands for more.

Moving on, Lui and I got on the elevator I always refer to as the 'Time Capsule'. It transported us to other floors where we were greeted by more galleries, which are basically focused more on the cultural side of the Filipinos. 

I really cannot remember everything but I guess, the pictures Lui took will somehow expose you to what we saw. But if there are some displays which really captivated my attention, I guess these are as follow:

THERE. IS. A. SMILEY. IN. THE. BOAT.

This is a cultural treasure. I can't remember what it's called though. ARGH

This is an araro, guys. Plough.

GADGARAN NG NIYOG. WOULD YOU BELIEVE THAT?

Close up shot of the preserved Flying Lemur, freaking cute I want one for a pet.

As I don't really want to drown you to too much information and as I really want to be very specific with everything, I guess I'll be posting each (and more photo) in my Tumblr account. You can see other shots at Lui's account too Hopefully, you guys will get to follow me there and then we can share opinions about these things. 

First time goers may be confused about the Museum of the Filipino People and the National Museum though. The MFP is located at the Finance Road. The National Museum (National Art Gallery) is the one you see in the 50php-bill. It's located between Finance Road and Padre Burgos Street. You just have to cross the street from the MFP to get to NM but that's the back gate.

The museums are open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10AM-5PM. Free admission during Sundays. Rates can be viewed here. For more information, visit http://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/.

"If you don't know history, then you don't know anything. You are a leaf that doesn't know it's part of a tree."

Michael Crichton