By now, surely everyone ate 12 grapes at midnight on New Year's Eve because even celebs like Kathryn Bernardo didn't want to miss their chance at extra luck for 2025. With the success rate of those who've tried it in 2024 (Bretman Rock being a glimmering example), among the things we should be thinking of as we begin the year is where we can go on dates with our soon-to-be boos. From coffee shops to casual, and fine dining, there are ample choices where you can spend time with your partner (or future partner *wink*).
But museums are your way to go if you want a day filled with arts and culture for that instant icebreaker. The good news is the National Museum of the Philippines is welcoming 2025 by not only maintaining its free admission but also providing more chances for patrons to visit it. They are now open to the public every day!
The National Museum Is Now Open Seven Days A Week All Over The Philippines
The National Museum announced this through a social media post where they wrote, "NMP now open 7 days a week!" Additionally, they wrote about how remarkable the past year has been for the National Museum of the Philippines. "So, to start 2025 with a bang, we are delighted to announce that the NMP Central Complex in Manila and our Regional Component Museums all over the Philippines will now be OPEN TO THE PUBLIC ALL SEVEN DAYS OF THE WEEK! ADMISSION IS FREE!"
Before this update, the National Museum of the Philippines was closed on Mondays and only welcomed guests from Tuesdays to Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
What to see at The National Museum of the Philippines Central Complex
The National Museum of the Philippines Central Complex has four institutions: the National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Planetarium, which is currently closed.
Among the masterpieces found in the National Museum of Fine Arts collection is the Spoliarium by Juan Luna, the most enormous artwork by the renowned painter in the Philippines. Art and Eraserheads fans alike will have something to talk (or argue) about once they see this in the museum á la Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano in Alone/Together.
Among the masterpieces found in the National Museum of Fine Arts collection is the Spoliarium by Juan Luna, the award-winning piece made by the famous painter. Art and Eraserheads fans alike will have something to talk (or argue) about once they see this in the museum á la Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano in Alone/Together. (Iykyk.)
You can also check out also notable artworks from national hero Jose Rizal and renowned Filipino painter Félix Resurrección Hidalgo at the Museum of Fine Arts. They also hold exhibitions with loaned pieces from both renowned institutions and private entities who have entrusted the care and preservation of their properties.
While you're surely not gonna have a Night At The Museum-esque visit at the National Museum of Natural History, a structure you might recognize at the very heart of it is theTree of Life. You might have already seen photos of it on your feed with the easily distinguishable architectural piece. Visitors can also explore exhibits like the Gallery of Biodiversity, which highlights the nation's unique flora and fauna, and the Geological and Paleontological Collections, featuring fossils and minerals. There's also the preserved skeleton of Lolong, the world's largest crocodile in captivity.
Lastly, the National Museum of Anthropology in the Philippines is a treasure trove of the country's rich cultural heritage. It houses fascinating exhibits that delve into the lives, traditions, and artistry of the nation's indigenous communities. Highlights include the Baybayin Gallery, showcasing the ancient Filipino script, and the Hibla ng Lahing Filipino textile gallery, which celebrates intricate weaving traditions. You also can't miss the replica of the Manunggul Jar, a burial artifact symbolizing early Filipinos' spiritual beliefs.
Other national museums in the Philippines that you can visit for free every day
If you also want to go on a longer drive or even ride a plane with your S.O. and make it a whole trip, you can also visit the regional national museums. This includes the newly opened National Museum component museum in Davao that opened on December 1, 2024. It is the 17th regional component museum in all and the fourth in Mindanao. The regional, area, and site museums are found all over the country and all hold significant national artistic, cultural, and heritage value. Other site museums in the country include the National Museum in Batanes, Cagayan, Ilocos, Cordillera, Kabayan, Rizal, Tabon Caves Complex, Bicol, Iloilo, Bohol, Butuan, Zamboanga, and Sulu.
