Driven by its mission, the Museum Foundation is dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s artistic and cultural heritage. Through its various programs and initiatives, the Foundation continuously strives to enhance the welfare of the National Museum of the Philippines and numerous museum communities across the country. The Foundation’s vision extends beyond preservation, aiming to foster a deep appreciation for the Philippines’ rich cultural tapestry among all Filipinos.
One of the Museum Foundation’s flagship events, the MaArte Fair, exemplifies this commitment. Initially conceived as a modest side-event during a symposium in 2009, the Fair quickly caught the attention of the 2010 Board of Trustees.
Recognizing its potential, they transformed MaArte into a full-fledged fundraising event. Today, the MaArte Fair stands as a vibrant platform that not only supports heritage conservation but also celebrates innovative Filipino craftsmanship.
By blending art, culture, and commerce, the Fair plays a crucial role in promoting social, environmental, and economic sustainability.
Engaging the Next Generation in Cultural Advocacy
In an era dominated by social media and pop culture, the Museum Foundation has successfully attracted the interest of millennials and Gen Z. Recognizing the importance of connecting with younger generations, the Foundation has consciously tailored its outreach and activities to resonate with their values and interests. From social media campaigns that educate the public about heritage conservation to dynamic events that invite active participation, the Foundation ensures that cultural preservation remains relevant in today’s fast-paced world.
A testament to this effort is the increasing involvement of young volunteers in the Foundation’s initiatives. These volunteers, many of whom are students, bring fresh energy and perspectives to the organization. The Foundation has gone to great lengths to accommodate their schedules, ensuring they have ample opportunities to explore and contribute to the various facets of the organization. This symbiotic relationship not only enriches the volunteers’ experience but also helps the Foundation stay in tune with the evolving cultural landscape.
The Foundation’s efforts extend beyond volunteerism. By establishing connections with schools and other educational institutions, the Museum Foundation is laying the groundwork for long-term youth engagement. This initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of advocates who are passionate about cultural preservation and eager to contribute to the organization’s mission.
A Contemporary Approach to Heritage Preservation
What sets the Museum Foundation apart is its ability to blend tradition with contemporary relevance. Far from being an exclusive domain of the older generation, the Foundation’s activities and events are designed to appeal to a broad audience, including the youth.
The MaArte Fair, for example, is a testament to this approach, where exhibitors automatically become members of the Foundation, fostering a sense of community among those who share a passion for Filipino heritage.
The Foundation understands that today’s youth are driven by a desire to make a difference and to be socially involved. However, the key lies in guiding them—showing them where and how they can contribute meaningfully to the cause of cultural preservation. By engaging young people now, the Foundation is not only securing the future of the country’s heritage but also instilling in them the importance of giving back to their roots.
As the Museum Foundation continues to grow, it remains committed to harnessing the enthusiasm and creativity of the younger generation. With their involvement, the Foundation is confident that it can carry forward its mission of cultural preservation for many years to come.
The Museum Foundation of the Philippines (MFPI), a distinguished non-profit organization, has long been a beacon of cultural preservation and heritage advocacy in the country. Established in 1980 through an informal gathering of friends from the National Museum Incorporated, the Foundation formally took shape in the wake of the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986. Under the leadership of Mrs. Purita Kalaw-Ledesma, the first president, this gathering evolved into the ‘Concerned Citizens for the National Museum (CCNM),’ marking the beginning of the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to the protection and promotion of Philippine cultural assets.
