Free entrance to museums, historical shrines proposed

National Museum of the Philippines (Wikipedia)

MANILA — Kabataan Party-list Rep. Terry L. Ridon has filed a bill requiring all museums and historical shrines in the country to offer free entrance to the public at least twice a month.

In his House Bill 4757, Ridon said one of the main reasons Filipinos lack interest to visit museums and historical landmarks was the additional expenses it entailed.

“Considering the high cost of living, most Filipinos ignore the opportunity to tour and explore these museums and shrines because entrance fees would mean additional expense on their part,” Ridon said.

The young solon said it was important for the Filipino people to be granted free access to these institutions and landmarks in order for them to have more knowledge about the history of the Philippines.

“In providing free access to museums and historical shrines, Filipinos that are incapable of paying entrance will have the opportunity to appreciate the significance of museums and historical shrines which represent their identity and cultural heritage,” Ridon said.

The measure, to be known as the Free Access to Museums Act of 2014, mandates the National Commission for Culture and the Arts to issue the necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of the proposed act.

There are about 300 museums and 22 historical shrines all over the country where a collection of Filipino artifacts, memorable events and other objects of artistic or historical importance may be found.