The Philippines celebrates Museums and Galleries Month every October under Proclamation No. 798, signed by former President Corazon Aquino in 1991. This month highlights the country’s rich culture, showcasing various art forms, history, and religious artifacts.
The term “museum” comes from the Ancient Greek word “mouseion” meaning “seat of the muses.” The word has existed since the 15th century in Florence, initially referring to collections on display.Â
While museums and galleries are often combined, they are different though. Museum focus on displaying items that are not for sale, while art galleries exhibit and sell artworks.
To join the celebration, FilipinoArtPH has put together a list of museums and galleries in Metro Manila that you can visit. Dive into the world of art and culture with us!
1. Ayala Museum
Ayala Museum’s collection highlights several key areas, including archaeology, ethnography, history, fine arts, numismatics, and ecclesiastical artifacts. These collections have been accumulated over the years, dating back to the museum’s origins as a center for Philippine history and iconography. Â
It is in the Central Business District of Makati City and opens Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 pm. Â
Ayala Museum, Source: Interaksyon & Wikimedia
2. Yuchengco MuseumÂ
The museum serves as a showcase for art and a space for intellectual exchange, debate, and education. Established to house the art collection of Ambassador Alfonso T. Yuchengco, the museum also reflects his career as a businessman, diplomat, collector, and advocate for both art and education. Â
It is at RCBC Plaza, cor. Ayala Avenue and Senator Gil J. Puyat Ave., Makati City, and opens from Monday to Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 pm. Â
Yuchengco Museum, Source: Wikimedia
3. Casa Manila Museum
Casa Manila Museum recreates the lifestyle during the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines, offering a glimpse into life during that period. Â
It operates in Intramuros, Manila, from Monday to Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 pm. Â
Casa Manila Museum, Source: Wikimedia
4. National Museum of Fine Arts
The museum houses the works of classical Filipino artists like Juan Luna, Félix Resurrección Hidalgo, and Guillermo Tolentino. Its neoclassical building, constructed in 1921, once served as the seat of the Philippine Congress (1926-1972) and later the Senate (1987-1997). Â
Located along Padre Burgos Ave., Ermita, Manila, it is open from Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 pm.Â
National Museum of Fine Arts, Source: National Museum & Wikimedia
5. National Museum of Natural History
The National Museum of Natural History features six floors centered around its iconic “Tree of Life” atrium. Exhibits are arranged by ecosystem, starting with mountains and forests on the upper floors and moving to wetlands and the underwater world below. Tour guides suggest beginning the visit from the top to bottom. Â
It is in Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila, Monday to Saturday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.Â
National Museum of Natural History, Source: Rappler
6. National Museum of Anthropology
Formerly known as the Museum of the Filipino People, this museum is part of the National Museum of the Philippines and houses exhibits focused on ethnology and archaeology. Â
It is in Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila, Monday to Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 pm.Â
National Museum of Anthropology, Source: Bluedreamer
7. Ronac Art CenterÂ
Founded by entrepreneur Big Boy Cheng, the structure is a modern-sleek establishment with a clothing store, café, bar, basketball court, and art gallery. It is known for its contemporary street fashion and innovative architecture. The art gallery hosts solo and group exhibitions, and the center is a popular spot among Generation Z, particularly for its distinctive spiral staircase. Â
It is located along Ortigas Ave., Greenhills, San Juan City, from Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 11:30 pm. Â
Ronac Art Center, Source: Jilardon Bamba
8. Manila Clock Tower Museum Â
Situated inside Manila City Hall’s iconic 100-foot clock tower, this immersive museum focuses on the history of the Battle of Manila during World War II. Exhibits include video presentations and a 3D wall installation. Â
Located in Manila City Hall, Ermita, Manila, it is open from Tuesday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 pm and Wednesday to Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 pm. Â
Manila Clock Tower Museum, Source: Radyo Pilipinas
9. RiseSpace Art Gallery Â
Erwin Canlas, a photographer and co-owner of the gallery, aims to create a space where both emerging and established artists can bring their artistic visions to life. The gallery reflects a collective vision shaped by his family’s creative insights, viewing art as a universal language shared by all. Â
It is in 2F Comuna Building, Pablo Ocampo Sr. Ext., Makati City, from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 pm. Â
RiseSpace Art Gallery, Source: Jilardon Bamba
10. National University Museum
The museum showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the university. It opened on November 20, 2023, and displays valuable memorabilia, including a 1920s surveyor’s telescope, a 1950s astronomical telescope, and other significant artifacts from the university’s past.  Â
It is in the Camilo Osias Hall, National University, Sampaloc, Manila. Â
To schedule a visit, call +632 8712-1900.Â
National University Museum, Source: Oliver Oliveros & Manila Times
Cover: Jilardon Bamba
— Toby Denise Concepcion