BALER, Aurora – The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) is set to officially inaugurate its newest museum component, the National Museum of the Philippines–Baler, on June 30, 2026, in Sitio Cabituculan, Barangay Reserva, Baler, marking another milestone in the agency’s commitment to making the country’s cultural and natural heritage more accessible to communities nationwide.

The inauguration will be highlighted by the ceremonial unfurling of ribbons and the unveiling of the museum marker, with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expected to lead the ceremony alongside key national and local government officials, cultural leaders, and representatives of the diplomatic community.

Among those expected to attend are Tourism Secretary María Bernardita Angara-Mathay, Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu-Laurel Jr., National Museum Chairperson Andoni M. Aboitiz, National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose Jr., Spanish Ambassador Miguel Utray Delgado, Aurora Governor Isidro Pimentel Galban, Aurora Representative Rommel Rico T. Angara, and Baler Mayor Rhett Ronan T. Angara.

Ahead of the inauguration, invited members of the media will participate in a press conference and an exclusive museum preview on June 29, providing a first look at the museum’s galleries before they are opened to the public.

The event also coincides with the observance of the 24th Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day, underscoring the enduring historical and cultural ties between the Philippines and Spain.

The National Museum of the Philippines–Baler features three permanent galleries showcasing the province’s rich history, cultural heritage, biodiversity, and artistic traditions. The Cruce de Caminos Gallery explores the historical relationship between the Philippines and Spain through the exhibit Encuentros Vivos (“Living Encounters”), while the Sierra, Tierra, Costa Gallery highlights Aurora’s diverse ecosystems, Indigenous knowledge, and local traditions. The Pagtatagpo/Encuentro Gallery showcases works by renowned Filipino artists, celebrating the country’s vibrant artistic heritage.

Designed by acclaimed Filipino architect Ed Calma, the museum draws inspiration from Aurora’s cultural landscape and the Sierra Madre Mountain Range, blending contemporary architecture with the province’s natural and historical identity.

Visitors can also enjoy community engagement activities, gallery tours, and the opening of the Oron by Crumby Crust Café, enhancing the museum experience as both a cultural and educational destination.

Beginning July 1, 2026, the National Museum of the Philippines–Baler will be open to the public daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except on officially declared government holidays. Admission is free.

The museum will likewise offer various public education programs and museum engagement activities aimed at promoting lifelong learning, cultural appreciation, and active community participation.

As the newest addition to the National Museum’s expanding network across the country, the National Museum of the Philippines–Baler is expected to become a significant cultural landmark in Aurora, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the province’s history, heritage, natural environment, and artistic legacy while contributing to cultural tourism and education in the region. (Jason de Asis)

📸 Members of the media attended a press briefing on Monday, June 29, 2026, ahead of the official inauguration of the National Museum of the Philippines–Baler. The briefing provided an overview of the museum’s exhibits, opening activities, and its role in preserving Aurora’s rich cultural, historical, and natural heritage. The museum is set to officially open on June 30 as the newest cultural destination in the province. (Jason de Asis)