(Eagle News)– The National Museum of Natural History is now open!
The Museum officially opened its doors to the public on May 18, in time for the celebration of International Museum Day.
It is located inside the former Department of Tourism building within Rizal Park, Manila.
Here’s a sneak peek of what’s inside the glass-domed museum.
A life-size replica of “Lolong”, the largest crocodile in captivity.
Aside from the replica, Lolong’s preserved body is also displayed in the museum.
Galleries of birds and insects species from the different regions in the Philippines and neighboring countries like Taiwan, Borneo, Thailand, and Burma are displayed in the museum.
Other galleries include a fascinating collection showcasing the country’s rich flora and fauna, animals, and fungi that can only be found in the Philippines.
The DNA helix-shaped elevator called the “Tree of Life” situated in the middle of the building gives a scenic 360 view of the museum as it takes visitors to the topmost gallery.
This project was first initiated in 1998 through the National Museum Act under the administration of former President Fidel Ramos.
Behind this project were architects and interior designers from Dominic Galicia Architects and Periquet-Galicia, Inc.
This world-class museum facility will benefit all Filipinos by helping us all to know better and develop a greater appreciation and for the gifts of nature with which our country is so richly endowed,” National Museum chairman Ramon del Rosario said in a statement.
The museum will be open to everyone on Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and it is FREE of charge!
(Photos courtesy National Museum Facebook page and Wikipedia)
Video graphics by Dex Magno
Research by Jodi Bustos