THE public can explore and learn about Philippine culture and history by visiting Museo de Intramuros in Manila which opens to the public starting May 2. Admission is free. Managed by the Intramuros Administration (IA), Museo de Intramuros is located in two reconstructions inside the walled city: the San Ignacio Church and the attached Mission House of the Society of Jesus. The museum was designed to house the period art collections of IA that includes ecclesiastical art, furniture, vestments, textiles, and other artifacts. Museo de Intramuros’ official opening, which took place on April 29, was among the highlights of the Intramuros Administration’s 40th anniversary as an institution. The current exhibition presents the story of the evangelization of the Philippines from the perspective of the Filipinos. It explores changes in the “Filipino” psyche as colonization introduced a new religion and culture to the natives. Curated by Dr. Esperanza Gatbonton, Gino Gonzales, Dr. Cecilia dela Paz, Santiago Pilar and Martin Tinio, the exhibition has six components: The Immaculate Conception, The Religious Order, The Patronato Real and the establishment of Parishes, Religious Colonial Paintings, The establishment of a parish and sacred vessels, and The Indio Response.
