Biodiversity museum to open in Quezon City

MANILA, Philippines - A museum dedicated to enhancing the appreciation of the country’s rich biological diversity was unveiled last Monday at Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in Quezon City.?             

Director Theresa Mundita Lim of the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) expressed hope the “Museum of Philippine Biodiversity” would help awaken public interest in the importance of conserving biodiversity.?               

“It is with utmost hope that this museum will encourage people to do something for our precious biodiversity,” Lim said.?             

She said the museum would feature six protected areas representing the different and unique terrestrial and marine ecosystems in the country.?             

The artworks to be displayed in the museum are interactive and experimental, showcasing the effects of current environmental issues.?             

“A museum of hope and pride, the Museum of Philippine Biodiversity aims to touch people’s senses to widen their perspectives and deepen their understanding in appreciating the biodiversity’s sublime beauty, as well as ignite their will to participate in conserving it,” she added.?             

Meanwhile, Sen. Loren Legarda, special guest during the launch, said the government should intensify efforts in protecting biodiversity by integrating biodiversity conservation into the country’s development policies and agenda, recognizing ecotourism’s potential role in sustainable development.?             

“The decline of our ecosystems has been found as one of the underlying drivers of disaster risks and poverty, in the context of climate change. Therefore, protecting ecosystems – which involves rehabilitating our forests, cleaning our rivers, and stopping pollution… requires action by all sectors and stakeholders including civil society, academe and the private sector. Multidisciplinary approach is essential in developing integrated solutions to these challenges,” Legarda stressed.?             

The senator said she is looking forward to the completion of the Museum of Philippine Biodiversity. “I have envisioned this project to be an instrument for people to appreciate the natural bounty of our country, realize the effects of our exploitative practices, and hopefully be engaged in efforts to rehabilitate and preserve what is left of our protected areas and biodiversity.”?             

An art installation created by Luis “Junyee” Yee Jr. was also unveiled during the event. Titled “Ugnayan,” the artwork represents the 21 countries comprising the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or APEC, and their unity and cooperation in pursuit for common goals in various fields.

An attached agency of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, BMB is responsible for the protection and conservation of wildlife species and their habitats.