Manila: The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) on Monday announced plans to reopen two of its heritage sites next week as part of its ongoing efforts to modernize and upgrade museum facilities nationwide.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Dambanang Apolinario Mabini (Apolinario Mabini Shrine) located at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Sta. Mesa, Manila, will reopen on December 10, followed by the reopening of the Museo ng Libingan sa Ilalim ng Lupa ng Nagcarlan (Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery Historical Landmark) in Laguna on December 11.
The reopening of the Mabini Shrine will commence at 10 a.m. and will feature a performance of the National Anthem and an opening prayer by Bagong Himig Serenata. The ceremony will include messages from PUP officials and NHCP representatives, culminating in a keynote address by Manila Mayor Isko Moreno.
For the Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery, the ceremony will feature messages from the Municipal Government of Nagcarlan, the Diocese of San Pablo, and the NHCP, with a keynote address by Laguna Governor Marisol Aragones-Sampelo.
The NHCP stated that the reopening of these cultural sites marks the beginning of a 10-year redevelopment program aimed at upgrading exhibitions, improving visitor facilities, and ensuring the long-term preservation of historical structures. This initiative is set to benefit all 28 shrines, landmarks, and museums under the commission's care nationwide.
The modernization efforts are designed to enhance public access to historical learning spaces and to foster a stronger appreciation of the nation's cultural heritage.
