The National Museum of the Philippines in Davao City is set to welcome back visitors this weekend, marking the end of a three-month closure prompted by safety concerns following a major earthquake.
Restoration Complete After October 2025 Quake
The NMP–Davao will officially reopen its doors to the public on Sunday, January 11, 2026. This decision comes after the successful completion of restoration and precautionary work necessitated by the powerful magnitude 7.4 tremor that hit the Davao Region in October of the previous year.
Following the seismic event, visible cracks appeared on several wall surfaces as the building's structure absorbed the stress. This led museum management to immediately close the facility and suspend visitor entry as a primary safety measure. Subsequent inspections by the Davao City Office of the City Building Official (Ocbo) confirmed that the building's core structural integrity was secure.
However, to ensure the utmost safety for guests, staff, and the invaluable collections housed within, officials opted to undertake comprehensive restoration. The work focused on strengthening structural elements, repairing damaged surfaces, and verifying the stability of all exhibition galleries.
Safety of Collections and Public as Top Priority
Throughout the closure period, the museum reported that all artifacts, specimens, and objects on display remained safe and intact. A limited number of pieces underwent minor conservation procedures, which are part of the institution's standard preservation protocol to prevent long-term deterioration and maintain exhibition quality.
Museum officials emphasized that the three-month hiatus reflects their deep commitment to disaster preparedness and heritage protection. The dual priorities of public safety and the conservation of irreplaceable cultural materials guided every decision during the restoration phase.
With all necessary engineering and conservation measures now complete, the management has assured the public that safety remains their top concern as they prepare to reopen.
Return of a Key Cultural and Learning Hub
Located inside People's Park along J. Palma Gil Street, the museum's reopening is expected to revive foot traffic in the area and reaffirm its role as a vital learning center in Davao City. The institution, famous for its durian-inspired architectural design, features permanent and rotating exhibitions on archaeology, ethnography, biodiversity, and local history.
The museum will resume its regular operating schedule from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In line with the National Museum's mandate, admission will continue to be free for all visitors, ensuring cultural and educational access for every Filipino.
Since its historic opening in December 2024 as the first National Museum branch in Mindanao, NMP-Davao has played a crucial role in bringing national collections to southern communities and highlighting local narratives. Its temporary closure in 2025 was the first major disruption to its operations, making this January reopening a significant milestone for Davao's cultural sector.
The museum now invites the public to return, rediscover its galleries, and continue exploring the rich stories, science, and heritage that define Mindanao and the nation.
