MAKATI CITY — The Ayala Museum has once again cemented its status as a premier cultural institution in the country by securing two major honors at the first-ever “Ang Museo: Gawad ng Museum Foundation of the Philippines.” The awarding ceremony, held on October 22, 2026, at the National Museum of Natural History, recognized institutions and individuals who have made lasting impacts on the country’s cultural landscape. For Makati, this victory highlights the city’s role as a vital custodian of Philippine heritage, hosting world-class exhibitions that educate and inspire the public. The dual recognition underscores the museum’s unwavering commitment to historical accuracy, conservation, and artistic excellence.
Celebrating the Gold of Ancestors
The museum’s permanent exhibition, “Gold of Ancestors: Pre-Colonial Treasures of the Philippines,” was honored with the Gawad sa Pamanang Tanghal or Permanent Exhibition of the Year, receiving the Pagkilala sa Kahalagahang-Gawa Certificate of Merit. Curated by Florina Capistrano-Baker, Ph.D., the exhibition showcases a breathtaking collection of over 1,000 pre-colonial gold pieces assembled by Leandro and Cecilia Locsin. It was lauded by the jury for its exemplary archaeological stewardship and meticulous conservation efforts.
The exhibition provides rigorous material evidence of sophisticated indigenous metallurgy and complex societies that flourished centuries before European contact. By permanently safeguarding these irreplaceable artifacts, the museum anchors national historical literacy and allows visitors to connect with the ingenuity of early Filipino ancestors. The recognition reaffirms the importance of preserving tangible heritage as a cornerstone of national identity. It also validates the extensive research and scholarly work that went into presenting these treasures to the public.
Reassessing a Hero Through Splendor
In the temporary exhibition category, “Splendor: Juan Luna, Painter as Hero” clinched the Gawad sa Napapanahong Tanghal or Temporary Exhibition of the Year. Organized in partnership with León Gallery to commemorate the 125th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood, the landmark show ran from June 12, 2023, to March 24, 2024. It was recognized for its unparalleled standard of historical accuracy and truthfulness in reassessing a complex national figure.
Anchored on Luna’s long-lost masterpiece “Hymen, Oh Hyménée!,” the exhibition utilized rigorous archival research to separate myth from fact. It provided a necessary, honest, and documented accounting of the 19th-century Propagandista and Revolutionary movements. By contextualizing Luna’s life and work within this broader historical framework, the museum offered a nuanced perspective on a pivotal national hero. This award highlights the institution’s ability to foster critical thinking and a deeper understanding of Philippine history through thoughtfully curated art.
A Legacy of Cultural Stewardship in Makati
These two wins at the inaugural Ang Museo Awards reflect the Ayala Museum’s broader mission to engage and inspire the Filipino public. The Museum Foundation of the Philippines, celebrating its 40th year, launched these awards to recognize excellence in museum practice across the country, from permanent collections to educational programs. Makati’s cultural institutions continue to benefit from this heightened focus on heritage, drawing visitors who seek meaningful and educational experiences within the city’s vibrant landscape.
