The National Museum of the Philippines in Davao City has officially reopened its doors to the public, marking a significant recovery after a three-month closure caused by a powerful doublet earthquake that struck the region last October.
Restored and Ready for Visitors
Acting Deputy Director-General for Museums, Arvin Manuel R. Villalon, expressed optimism about the museum's reopening on January 11, 2026. He noted a surge in public interest following the announcement, with many schools already scheduling educational tours. Villalon anticipates that visitor numbers will gradually climb over the next few weeks, returning to their usual monthly average of 20,000 to 30,000 by February.
"I think it would take a week or two or the whole month before the number of visitors steeply climbs again and goes back to its previous number," Villalon stated in a media interview. He projects a further increase by March 2026, coinciding with the vibrant Araw ng Dabaw celebrations.
The museum, which first opened in December 2024, had already welcomed an impressive approximately 300,000 visitors in its first ten months of operation before the seismic event forced its temporary shutdown.
Safety Assurances and Earthquake Recovery
Villalon was quick to reassure the public about the building's structural integrity. While the October 10, 2025 earthquake caused some non-structural damage—such as fallen artifacts requiring repair, paintwork cracks, and hairline fractures—the museum's core structure remained sound.
"We want to assure the public that if they come here and an earthquake occurs, which cannot really be avoided, it would be a safe building for them," Villalon emphasized. A thorough inspection was conducted by both the museum's engineers and the Davao City Engineering Office (CEO), which also assisted in the restoration. The facility is now equipped with clear emergency exit points.
Beyond cosmetic repairs, the museum took the opportunity to secure all artifacts and artworks more firmly against future tremors and to check all electrical and mechanical systems.
What Awaits Returning Guests
Visitors can now explore the museum's popular exhibits, including the impressive Stegodon display, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Sunday. Admission continues to be free of charge, with only a single valid ID required for entry.
The museum is designed for self-guided tours with comprehensive exhibition captions, though guided tours remain an option. To protect the collections, bringing beverages, water containers, or tumblers inside is strictly prohibited.
Looking ahead, Villalon announced plans for new public programs highlighting the 11 ethnolinguistic tribes of Davao City, alongside activities focused on arts, history, and natural heritage. The public is encouraged to follow the museum's social media pages for the latest updates.
The reopening was met with immediate enthusiasm. Jemaillah Retardo, a nursing student, shared her excitement during her first visit, stating she was "mesmerized by the exhibits" and plans to return with her family. Joan A. Simbillo, a grade school teacher, highlighted the museum's vital role in educating children about regional culture and history, hoping to bring her students for a guided tour soon.
Located at the People’s Park Compound on J. Palma Gil Street, the NMP-Davao is the fourth and largest national museum in Mindanao, housing its exhibits from the first to fourth floors, with the fifth floor dedicated to the Museo Dabawenyo.
