The Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), in partnership with the University of the Philippines (UP) and through the initiative of Senator Loren B. Legarda, marked this year’s International Day for Biological Diversity with the launching of two projects, the Museum of Philippine Biodiversity and Junyee’s installation art “Ugnayan”, at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center (NAPWC) in Diliman, Quezon City on May 22.
According to project team leader Dr. Perry S. Ong of the UP College of Science, the museum to be built inside the BMB-NAPWC’s Salakot Building will showcase the richness and beauty of Philippine biodiversity by featuring the country’s various terrestrial and marine ecosystems and Protected Areas. Conceptualized as an interactive and experiential venue utilizing multimedia exhibits and equipment that stimulate the senses (sight, touch, smell, and hearing), the museum aims to impart to its visitors the importance of Philippine biodiversity, its unique ecosystems, and the threats faced, and to promote environmental conservation. BMB Director Theresa Mundita S. Lim said they hope that this museum “will encourage people to do something for our precious biodiversity.”
“Ugnayan”, dubbed as the first permanent installation art in the country, stands just outside the Salakot Building. It was made by renowned artist Luis “Junyee” E. Yee, Jr. with “recycled hardwood pillars and metal to visualize the unity and cooperation of the 21 nations composing the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in pursuit of common goals in different fields”.
With Sen. Legarda, Dr. Ong, Dir. Lim, and Mr. Junyee, also delivering inspiring messages for the occasion were: Dr. Ana Maria Theresa P. Labrador, assistant director of the National Museum of the Philippines; Professor Leonardo C. Rosete, dean of the UP College of Fine Arts, and, representing UP President Danilo L. Concepcion, Asst. VP for Public Affairs of UP Jose Wendell P. Capili. (Fred Dabu, UP MPRO)
Additional photos of the event can be viewed by clicking here.
