PHILIPPINES—Fifteen seniors of the Quezon City and Angeles City congregations visited the National Museum of the Philippines in Manila for the first time on July 31 in a tour organized by Local Church Elder Benedict Marquez.

Established in 1901, the government-run museum provides an educational, scientific, anthropological, archaeological and visual repository of Filipino treasures in different fields and through different time periods.

Among the historical and art treasures were paintings, sculptures, pottery, jewelry, instruments, weapons, money and intricately designed hand-woven clothing made from various fibrous materials like pineapple and cotton, all from the 16th and 17th centuries.

“It was an enriching experience to learn more about history, culture and arts in the company of the brethren,” member Reynaldo Padua said. “I hope for another activity soon.”

One of the notable paintings was The Spolarium, which was painted by Juan Luna, measures 13 feet by 23 feet and depicts dying gladiators from the ancient past. The artwork won the 1884 gold medal for the “Exposicion National de Bellas Artes” in Madrid, Spain.

“It was a wonderful chance to learn history,” member Lourdes Concepcion said, “and I’ll line up for another event again.”