We need more spaces that protect the value of childhood. In places like the Philippines, childhood is being lost. From being one of, if not the most climate vulnerable countries, areas of conflict line our shores, our capital Manila’s original natural heritage destroyed through reclamation, what was once towering trees that inspired children to dream, are often converted to towering buildings or mismanaged subdivisions that are nowhere near close to conducive or liveable, our identity as a nation is slowly being consumed by problems that exist because of our colonized past. In needing to move forward, generations must be taught again to dream bigger for their home. Children need their own space to discover the hope found in their own culture. Founded in 1994, Museo Pambata was the first children’s museum in the country. At its height, hundreds of children walked in wonder through its halls on any given day. An institution that compares to no other in being a cultural learning playground for Filipinos of all generations.
As with all privately funded, non-profit entities, Museo Pambata became a victim of COVID. The government banned children from entering museums for 3 years, and when it reopened, safety protocols called for many of the sensory exhibits and manipulatives to be stripped. Add to that, a string of typhoons wreaked havoc on the 114-old building by the bay. The end result was the entire second floor of the museum was declared inoperable while the first floor exhibits became static, no-touch experiences that fell far short of the Museo’s goals. With heavy hearts, the board made the painful decision to close the museum doors beginning November until it could give Filipino children the true museum experience they deserved.
But through your help and the power of communities of all generations, we are bringing back life into the museum.
More than just a museum, Museo Pambata is a beacon of light and hope in Manila and beyond. Here, classroom lessons come to life, aligning seamlessly with what children learn in school. Our mission is simple: to celebrate the Filipino child and Filipino childhood, ensuring that every visit is a transformative experience.
Nestled in the heart of Manila, Museo Pambata resides within the storied walls of The Elks Club Building, a heritage building designed by renowned American Architect William Parsons in 1910. The museum reclaims this colonial past by allowing Filipino culture to flow through its walls, once being a space where only Americans were allowed, it converted all its spaces into a Filipino creative sanctuary for children.
Our museum caters to various groups from school field trips, to out-of-school children and youth from underserved communities, indigent children and children with special needs. At Museo Pambata, we provide a safe and nurturing environment where children learn and grow through play.
We curate exhibitions and programs that emphasize culture, community, and creativity, uplifting children's rights and restoring the authentic joy of childhood. Our goal is to transform lives and mold Filipino children into active agents of nation-building.
Your donation, no matter the amount, is a lifeline of hope—an investment in shaping the future of our nation. With your support, we can provide thousands of children access to the museum, nurturing curiosity, exploration, and inspiration.
Your generosity will not only impact young minds across the Philippines but also contribute to uplifting our local creative industries and empower the next generation of leaders.
LEARN ABOUT THE SPACES YOU CAN SUPPORT AND MAKE POSSIBLE
MAIN MUSEUM BUILDING
Step into a world of wonder and discovery at Museo Pambata's Main Building, where our exhibit spaces come alive with the vibrant spirit of Filipino culture and learning. On the Ground Floor, embark on a journey through:
Dayaw (Main Lobby): Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Filipino celebrations.
Pamayanan (Community): Journey back in time to explore the rich history and heritage of Manila's communities.
Kalikasan (Environment): Explore nature, culture, and art. Encounter works by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, dive into Filipino culture with the Bahay Kubo (“Nipa Hut”) and Batang Katutubo (“Indigenous children”) exhibits, and marvel at Philippine fabric, weaving, and indigenous musical instruments. Experience the vibrant heritage and natural beauty of the Philippines in every corner.
Karagatan (Under the Sea): Discover the fascinating marine life that calls the Philippines home.
Likhaan (Arts and Crafts): Unleash your creativity and explore traditional Filipino arts and crafts.
“Kanlungan” (Sanctuary): Celebrating children’s rights through shadowplay.
“Pag-laki Ko” (When I Grow Up): Dream big and explore Filipino children’s literature and storytelling.
I Love My Planet Earth: Learn about the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainability.
“Katawan Ko” (Body Works): Journey inside the human body and discover the marvels of anatomy, health and wellness.
“Pamilihang Bayan” (Filipino Marketplace): Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of a traditional Filipino marketplace.
BALAY YATU (Under Renovation)
Welcome to Building 2 - Balay Yatu, “Balay” meaning home and “yatu” meaning earth. This will be the headquarters of Filipino youth changemakers from Luzon to Mindanao to revolutionize and imagine a new nation through creativity and culture - a space where imagination creates real-life solutions. It will be home to radical imagination, revolutionary ideas, and research and innovation.
1. Laro Lab: An idea laboratory where young minds can experiment, innovate, and create using multimedia equipment. From tinkering with technology to exploring the wonders of nature, this space fosters creativity and curiosity.
2. Dap-ay Co-working Space: A hub for collaboration and community, where meetings, workshops, and gatherings come to life. Here, ideas are shared, connections are made, and dreams are realized.
3. Mini Art Gallery: The Philippines' first-ever gallery dedicated to showcasing artworks by children and youth. Step into a world of imagination and inspiration as young artists display their talents and perspectives.
4. Pasalubong Gift Shop Discover a treasure trove of uniquely Filipino gifts and souvenirs, all crafted by kids or kids at heart.
5. Cafe: Indulge in delicious Filipino snacks & treats and immerse yourself in Philippine culture at our cozy cafe.
6. Fiesta Spaces: A versatile venue for large exhibits, children's parties, conferences, puppet shows, theater, fundraisers, and more. From celebrating milestones to addressing important issues, this space is a beacon of joy and community spirit.
“ BAKURAN” (Backyard / Outdoor Spaces)
Bakuran, meaning Backyard in Filipino, is an ode to the Philippine Natural world. It is an Urban Garden & Safe Space at the Heart of Manila located in Museo Pambata, a space where culture, community, & environment can thrive in one ecosystem.
1. “Bahay Pukyutan” Playground (Honeycomb) - Designed by the late National Artist for Architecture Bobby Manosa, this space at Museo Pambata invites children to engage in free play while learning about the geometry of space, the value of smaller ecosystems, inclusion, and the importance of community.
2. Pollinator Garden - During the pandemic, the museum was closed, children were not allowed to leave their homes. To complement the Pukyutan honeycomb playground, we invited bees to thrive in our space, establishing five colonies. Now, we harvest honey from our busy bees. A special area for our buzzing friends, ensuring they can collect nectar from nearby trees and flowers without disturbance.
3. “Tutubing Bakal” Helicopter (Metal Dragonfly) - In the southern Philippines, helicopters are often associated with war. Children are afraid of this chopper. At Museo Pambata, we're redefining this symbol, transforming it into a haven of peace—where children find peace within self, peace within family and peace within community. It's a safe space where stories of rescue & compassion are shared, uplifting one another's spirits.
4. Bahay Kubo 2.0 (Nipa Hut) - Bahay Kubo was a term coined during the American colonization to describe our nipa huts and indigenous housing, but we are claiming back the term and exemplifying what a Filipino home actually means - a space where we look beyond seeing it as a small and so-called “primitive house”, and view it as a beacon of innovation for both people and planet. This space celebrates family, food sovereignty, and feminism, while also serving as a workshop space for children, and families.
5. “Aklatang Kalikasan” (Eco Library) - A Library for Environment creates a home for seeds to be sown and grown, mentally through literature, and literally through a seed library to rewild the city - a space dedicated to leaving a legacy through environmental literature and living things. This space will showcase the unique flora and fauna of the Philippines, as well as children’s literature. It is where children will learn about the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit and discover diverse ecosystems and their self-renewal processes, fostering a deeper understanding of our natural world.