12/10/2025
Philippine Museum Congress 2025 Opens in Baguio, Celebrates Innovation, Heritage, and Sustainability in the Cordilleras
Baguio City, Philippines — The Philippine Museum Congress 2025 opened on October 7 at the Hotel Supreme Convention Plaza, bringing together cultural leaders, museum practitioners, and heritage advocates from across the country for a four-day gathering hosted by the Baguio Museum in cooperation with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). The congress, which ran until October 10, 2025, focused on advancing cultural education, sustainability, and innovation in museums nationwide.
The opening ceremonies commenced in the morning and set the tone with a strong cultural heartbeat, beginning with a vibrant artistic performance by the Baguio City National High School – Special Program for the Arts (Performing Arts), showcasing Cordilleran creativity and youth talent.
Leaders Rally Behind Cultural Preservation
Mr. Peter L. Ng, President of the Baguio Museum and owner of Hotel Supreme, warmly welcomed delegates from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. In his welcome remarks, Ng emphasized the role of museums as "keepers of identity and agents of cultural continuity in every community."
This was followed by the opening message of Ms. Gladys Vergara, Chairperson of the Baguio Tourism Council, who highlighted museum tourism as a rising component of cultural economy. “Museums tell our stories. They also help drive sustainable tourism and cultural appreciation,” she noted.
Messages of support from national and regional leaders underscored the congress’s importance:
Baguio City Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong, represented by City Councilor Yuri Weygan, commended the congress for promoting heritage stewardship and education.
Congressman Mauricio Domogan extended his message through a representative, reinforcing legislative support for heritage conservation. Benguet Governor Dr. Melchor Diclas also sent a message read on his behalf, expressing pride in the Cordillera's role in cultural preservation.
Engr. Aloysius Mapalo, Baguio City Tourism Officer, then introduced the event’s Guest of Honor, National Artist for Film Kidlat Tahimik, a pillar of indigenous cultural advocacy and a long-time Baguio resident. His presence brought a profound cultural grounding to the ceremonies, inspiring participants to embrace cultural authenticity in museum work.
First Day of Congress: Ideas That Inspire Change
The afternoon sessions opened a series of thought-provoking talks blending cultural heritage with education, sustainability, and creativity.
- Atty. Emerson Cuyo, Director of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines, discussed Copyrighting Your Works, guiding museum educators and content creators on protecting cultural outputs.
- Ms. Valeree Nolasco, Consultant for UNICEF and Neo Tero UNFCCC, explored Decarbonization, Climate Change, and Sustainability, emphasizing environmental responsibility in museum operations.
- Arch. Michael John Astudillo, Baguio Museum Project Architect, presented Preserving the Past, Sustaining the Future: A Green Approach for Museums, offering eco-friendly strategies in museum design and conservation.
- Mr. Tor Sagud, TOYM Awardee and author, inspired the crowd with Art Rewires the Brain Through Digital Format, highlighting neuroplasticity and the future of digital learning in museums.
- Ms. Angelica Mae Olli, young innovator, shared her creative journey through Unleashing Art Through Digital Poster, promoting youth-led visual storytelling.
The day concluded with a dynamic open forum moderated by Ms. Sherry Nolasco, where speakers engaged with participants on museum innovation, cultural rights, and sustainability challenges.
