Greetings to all museum enthusiasts! Davao City is pleased to announce to you that The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) in Davao is now open to the public on December 1. The durian-inspired museum building is situated inside the People’s Park, marking a significant addition to the country’s cultural institutions.
ABOUT THE MUSEUM
This museum is the 17th regional component of the NMP, as well as the fourth under the Mindanao National Museum umbrella. The six-story building cost Php300 million, and is inspired by the durian fruit which is the symbol of Davao City.
The director of Mindanao National Museums emphasizes the museum’s role in preserving and conserving artifacts and making history more engaging for the youth. The museum allows children to connect history through tangible displays rather than just written accounts.
The NMP-Davao is a cultural and educational hub that celebrates the rich biodiversity, history, art, and traditions of Davao and Mindanao. It is designed to preserve the region’s heritage while making it accessible and engaging for the public.
BREAKING DOWN THE EXHIBITS
First Floor features artworks by local artists, including Joel Gelamen’s “Habilin”, Jong Tangiday’s “Mebuyan”, and Kublai Millan’s installation “Ahungan sa Pagkakaisa”. Victorio Edades’ “Davao Industries” will be displayed in 2025.
Second Floor focuses on the region’s biodiversity, geology, and marine life, including exhibits like “Davao Landscapes”, “Life Beneath the Gulf”, and sections about the Philippine Eagle, Mt. Apo, and Mindanao’s insect diversity.
Third Floor highlights rituals and traditions of indigenous tribes, Moro, and other local communities through the exhibit “Bahandi: Rituals in Life Cycles”. It covers rites of passage, subsistence practices, trading, and rituals.
Fourth Floor showcases Minadanao’s rich textile heritage in “Kabilin: Enduring Textile Tradition of Mindanao”, including clothing from indigenous and cultural groups. It also honors National Living Treasures and includes works by renowned artists, Ang Kiukok.
Entrance is FREE. Opens from Tuesday to Sunday, 9AM to 5PM. Make your way to the People’s Park and immerse yourself in the stories and heritage that shape our nation. Visit the museum now!
