NMP-BOHOL OPENS PAGHANDUM EXHIBITION ON PRES. GARCIA’S 128TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY
Paghandum, “to reminisce, remember or look back”, honors the enduring legacy of the 8th President of the Republic of the Philippines: a distinguished son of Bohol through a selection of artworks, photographs, furniture, and personal memorabilia.
Before becoming president, Garcia was as a teacher, lawyer, guerilla leader, senator, and political economist. A true statesman, he was the exemplar of commitment to Philippine sovereignty and economic independence as encapsulated in his Filipino First Policy which promoted the primacy of Philippine industries over foreign enterprises by empowering local producers and guaranteeing preferential rights to Filipinos on matters of national economy and patrimony. Garcia also played a key role in reducing foreign military base agreements, ensuring a more autonomous future for the Philippines.
His roots in Bohol profoundly influenced his character and political outlook. The values of simplicity, hard work, and community solidarity inherent in Boholano culture shaped his leadership style and public service. He maintained a deep connection with Bohol throughout his life, frequently returning to his roots and staying engaged with his community. His legacy of economic nationalism is celebrated in Bohol; and is revered and remembered for his love and devotion to the national identity, having worked towards the strengthening of indigenous cultural arts.
This exhibition features a collection of objects from the Carlos P. Garcia Heritage House in Tagbilaran City, Bohol as well as from their home in Quezon City, Metro Manila. Generously gifted by his grandchildren, Maria Carla Josefa G. Campos, Jose Carlos G. Campos, and Isabel Campos Bustos, this collection not only commemorates Garcia’s contributions but also reflects the enduring bond between the leader and his beloved province. A major highlight are two oil on canvas individual portraits of President Carlos P. Garcia and First Lady Leonila D. Garcia created by National Artist for Visual Arts, Fernando C. Amorsolo in 1959.
Present at the reception to inaugurate the exhibition were NMP’s Director-General Jeremy R. Barns, Deputy Director-General for Museums Jorell M. Legaspi, and Director for Visayas National Museums Atty. Ma. Cecilia U. Tirol. Honorable Governor Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado along with local government officials, partners from the academe, media, tourism, and cultural sectors graced the event.
The National Museum of the Philippines Bohol would like to express our sincere gratitude to the following individuals for their invaluable contributions and support: MC Builders Construction & Services, Marianito Jose Luspo, National Historical Commission of the Philippines, National Library of the Philippines, and the Provincial Government of Bohol.
