NMP OPENS COMPONENT MUSEUM IN DAVAO
The National Museum of the Philippines opened its component museum in Davao last Sunday, 01 December 2024. Made possible through a partnership with the City Government of Davao, this is the NMP’s 17th regional component museum and its fourth in Mindanao.
NMP Davao is housed in a six-story durian-inspired structure, an architectural tribute to one of Davao region’s most beloved agricultural products. It is now home to exhibitions featuring natural history, cultural and historical artifacts, Mindanao’s priceless treasures, the artistry of indigenous textiles, and masterpieces by some of Davao’s best artists.
On the ground floor, visitors will be greeted by Kublai Millan’s monumental installation “Ahungan ng Pagkakaisa”. Inspired by the traditional musical instrument of the Tagakaolo people, also known as tangungu in Bagobo, this centerpiece was masterfully crafted by over 50 skilled Manobo weavers, signifying the power of the community. Soon to be displayed in the museum lobby is a loan from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Collection. “Davao Industries” is a stellar artwork by National Artist Victorio Edades, who spent his retirement years in Davao City. Artworks by Dabawenyo artists also adorn this floor.
The exhibitions on the second floor feature specimens and images that celebrate Davao region’s natural landscape, from its geologic history and transformation to its flora and fauna. Crowning Davao’s staple Philippine Eagle display are in-depth installation showing its forests, mountains, land and water forms, and rich biodiversity.
Traditional life rituals as well as the region’s archaeological heritage are exhibited on the third floor. Being a melting pot of ethnic expressions among the Lumads, Moros, and migrant settlers, the mountainous terrains and the rivers and seas continue to shape communities across historical periods, especially through trade, warfare, and even in the conduct of their daily lives. Material evidence of the origins of death-related practices, prevalent among various indigenous people groups, can also be viewed on this floor, offering viewers a deeper understanding of our long-held beliefs in the afterlife.
Expressions of local artistry comprise the exhibitions on the fourth floor. The textile exhibition focuses on the clothing of the different indigenous and cultural communities in Mindanao. Researched and curated in partnership with the Office of Senator Loren Legarda and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, this exhibition is part of the Hibla ng Lahing Filipino Program, making NMP Davao its seventh regional gallery. It also honors the lives and works of master textile weavers from Mindanao who were recognized as Manlilikha ng Bayan or National Living Treasures. Also on the same floor is a special exhibition on the legacy of Davao-born National Artist Ang Kiukok, an influential figure in Philippine modern art.
NMP Davao is located at People’s Park Compound, J. Palma Gil St., Brgy. 4A Poblacion District, Davao City. For visits and further information, please contact +63998-557-9370 or send an email to davao@nationalmuseum.gov.ph.
