LOOK: National Museum in Baler officially opens to the public
Beyond the waves, there's another museum to add to your itinerary when you visit Baler.
The National Museum of the Philippines–Baler was officially inaugurated on Tuesday, June 30, marking the country's 22nd national museum and the first component museum in Central Luzon.
According to the Department of Tourism, the new museum serves as a permanent venue for preserving and showcasing Aurora's cultural, historical, artistic, and natural heritage.
On the outside, its lush green façade blends well with the natural backdrop, seemingly resembling rice terraces.
Some exhibits you can expect on your visit include displays on archaeology, ethnography, and marine biodiversity.
According to the Philippine News Agency, the museum is home to three permanent galleries that highlight Aurora's history, biodiversity, culture, and artistic heritage.
Among them is the Cruce de Caminos Gallery, which traces the historical ties between the Philippines and Spain through artifacts and archaeological finds.
The Sierra, Tierra, Costa Gallery showcases Aurora's diverse landscapes, rich biodiversity, Indigenous traditions, surfing culture, and the resilience of its communities. Meanwhile, the Tagpuan/Encuentro Gallery features contemporary works by prominent Filipino artists, including Kidlat Tahimik, who recently surrendered his National Artist for Film medal, Rodel Tapaya Eustaquio, Archie Oclos, and JUNYEE.
Also included in the highlights are galleries on Aurora's history, traditions, biodiversity, and visual arts, as well as exhibits on the Philippines' historical ties with Spain and selected pieces from the National Fine Arts Collection.
The inauguration coincided with the 24th Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day.
The National Museum of the Philippines - Baler is located at Brgy. Reserva, Baler, Aurora, beside the Senator Edgardo J. Angara Convention Center.
Starting July 1, the museum will welcome visitors free of charge daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
