Honoring the Illustrious History of the Philippine National Police
In today’s rapidly changing environment, museums may act as anchors in the storm. To those who are not passionate about history, museums may seem merely places where old often forgotten objects are dutifully displayed for the appreciation of the general public. But despite these notions, museums become more relevant today than they have ever been, as they address social issues and shape how people look into the future, a powerful tool in shaping society, especially the future generations.
PCol Lou F. Evangelista, Acting Director, PCADG, was given a 45-day working challenge by the PNP Chief, PGen Rodolfo S Azurin Jr. to wield the “magic wand” to upgrade the PNP Museum before his retirement. The expansion and improvement of the museum commenced immediately with the joint efforts and non-stop work, 24/7 of PNP personnel, with the help of Dr. Flordeliza Villaseñor, the PNP Museum Curator, and partner agencies.
Finally, on April 17, 2023, at 4:00 PM, the Philippine National Police (PNP) relaunched the museum with a new feature – a state-of-the-art holographic display at the PNP Bulwagang Lapu Lapu in Camp BGen Rafael T Crame, Quezon City. Becoming an even more engaging and informative space for visitors to learn about the rich history of the organization.
The event was headed by PNP Chief, Police General Rodolfo Azurin Jr. as Guest of Honor and Speaker, together with PLtGen Rhodel O Sermonia, TDCA; PLtGen Michael John F Dubria, TCDS; PMGen Mario AReyes, TDPCR; PCol Lou F Evangelista, Acting Director, PCADG; Directors, NSUs; and other PNP personnel. It was also graced by Senator Joseph Victor G Ejercito Estrada; Consuls, Police Attachѐs, members of the diplomatic community, Officers’ Ladies Club, AFP Generals, Trustees of the Tagapagtaguyod ng Sining at Kultura ng Pilipinas (TSKP), and other special guests and ambassadors.
The activity kicked-off with the unveiling of the Gallant SAF 44 Sculpture and a Wreath Laying Ceremony at the PNP Heritage Park as a tribute to the fallen heroes who have selflessly offered the ultimate sacrifice of giving their lives for country and fellowmen.
The PNP Museum has always been a significant cultural and historical landmark – a place that reflects the organization’s cultural identity and heritage. Its relaunch represents a major step towards preserving and promoting the legacy of PNP. Through the museum, PNP seeks to honor veterans and their sacrifices to inspire and ignite curiosity, and educate the Filipino people, especially the youth, about the PNP’s role in the nation’s history.
The expansion and improvement of the PNP Museum covered the PNP Bulwagang Lapu Lapu and the PNP Heritage Park. The facade of the Bulwagang Lapu Lapu was designed with the evolution of the Kalasag, the ‘warrior shield’ used to protect ancient warriors. This was adopted in the design of the PNP Badge, which symbolizes protection of all citizens.
The Relics Square from its former site near the staff houses was relocated to the PNP Heritage Park where the Bulwagang Lapu Lapu is also located, feauturing vehicles of PNP through the years to showcase the evolution of the PNP’s mobility, especially in patrolling. Visitors are given the opportunity to see up close the changes and improvements made over time to enhance its operations.
The highlight of the activity was the holographic displays that left the audience in awe. The exhibit showcased the PNP’s rich history and culture in an immersive experience using cutting-edge technology, feeling the PNP history come to life before their eyes as if transporting them back in time. The museum is a stage of historical events, stories, uniforms, weaponry, memorabilia, and artifacts.
During the occasion, PGen Azurin lauded those who contributed to the success of the project, particularly, to PCol Lou F Evangelista, Acting Director, PCADG, and the staff, in collaboration with TSKP and all partner agencies. PNP hopes to further strengthen its ties with the public and inspire a sense of pride and respect for PNP among Filipinos and attract a wide range of visitors, which include students, foreign nationals, academes, history enthusiasts, and the general public. He hopes that the PNP Museum will serve as a reminder to fellow Filipinos and learn from of the PNP’s significant role in nation-building in order to motivate us to really strive for a peaceful, brighter, safer, and more progressive Philippines.
“Our goal is to showcase the evolution of the Philippine National Police from its humble beginnings as the country’s first insular police force to the highly organized and professional law enforcement agency that it is today. The use of a hologram in the PNP Museum is a significant upgrade from the traditional museum experience. The true essence of this momentous occasion lies in the broader narrative it represents. We also aspired that this museum will encourage the coming generation of police officers to maintain and carry on the tradition of excellence that PNP has built over the years”, said PGen Azurin.
In October 2021, the PNP Museum was accredited by the International Council of Museums (ICOM), a non-governmental organization that establishes professional and ethical standards for museum activities. The accreditation left an indelible mark and recognition of the PNP Museum on the international scene. Coinciding with the PNP Museum Relaunch is also the renewal of the ICOM accreditation and membership.
The relaunch is a significant milestone in the country’s cultural and historical preservation of PNP. It serves as a testament to the organization’s commitment to honoring the past, inspiring the present, and shaping the future of the next generations.
