Bahay Modernismo: A New Cultural Museum Showcasing Post-War Philippines

QUEZON CITY, PHILIPPINES – A new cultural landmark, Bahay Modernismo, has opened its doors within the Quezon City Memorial Circle, offering visitors an immersive experience of post-war Philippine history and design. The museum, which officially launched on June 12, 2025, is uniquely constructed with original architectural fragments from the Aquino family home located on Times Street, embodying the modern bungalow style prevalent during the mid-20th century.
Curated by Gerald Lico, a Professor of Architecture at the University of the Philippines Diliman, the museum presents a nostalgic collection of items that reflect the lifestyle and cultural spirit of the Philippines from the 1950s to the 1970s. "Bahay Modernismo aims to provide a tangible connection to our past, allowing visitors to appreciate the evolution of Filipino design and culture during a transformative era," Lico stated in a recent interview with GMA Integrated News.
Visitors to the museum can explore six meticulously designed rooms, including a kitchen, home office, entertainment room, and three bedrooms, each filled with period-specific household items such as a black-and-white television, vintage radio, typewriter, sewing machine, and vinyl records. The inclusion of classic Liwayway magazines adds an authentic touch to the experience, inviting guests to engage with the historical context of the time.
The museum also pays homage to the golden age of Philippine cinema, showcasing posters and photographs of iconic stars like Gloria Romero, Nida Blanca, and Nora Aunor, thus linking the visual arts with the domestic experience of the era.
Open to the public for free from Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Bahay Modernismo serves as both an educational institution and a cultural repository, fostering an appreciation for the rich history of the Philippines. The museum's establishment is seen as a significant step towards preserving and promoting the heritage of post-war Filipino aesthetics and lifestyle.
In discussing the implications of the museum's opening, Dr. Maria Elena Cruz, a cultural historian at Ateneo de Manila University, noted, "Institutions like Bahay Modernismo are crucial in educating younger generations about their heritage. They provide insight into the social dynamics and cultural expressions of a pivotal period in our country's history."
Bahay Modernismo exemplifies how heritage sites can play a role in national identity formation and historical remembrance. The museum not only serves as a repository of artifacts but also as a platform for dialogue about the significance of cultural continuity in the face of modernization. As the Philippines continues to evolve, the preservation of such historical narratives becomes increasingly vital in understanding the present and shaping the future.
As the museum gains traction, it is expected to attract both local and international visitors, enhancing Quezon City’s cultural landscape. The establishment of Bahay Modernismo is a testament to the enduring legacy of post-war Philippines, providing a bridge between the past and present, and an invitation for all to explore the rich tapestry of Filipino history.
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