The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) has devised a strategy to connect with the younger generation and appreciate the role of women weavers in the textile heritage of Western Visayas in the 19th century.

NMP Western Visayas information officer Maricyn De Los Santos said to culminate the Museums and Galleries Month celebration, the office will be engaging the public through “Time Travel: A Period Costume Play of 19th Century of the Philippines” on Oct. 28.

“This period is very important in our history because of several socio-economic developments that affected us as a colony of Spain. The textile industry in Western Visayas flourished; in Iloilo and Antique, the census recorded houses that owned at least a dozen looms. Men and women were employed,” she said in an interview on Wednesday.

The ‘cosplay’ contest will gather interested individuals wearing period costumes inspired by the historical clothing of the 19th century.

Aside from showcasing their creative costumes, they also have to act out the characters they portray during a parade at the NMP atrium on the evening of the culminating day.

“This innovative approach also fosters enhanced sensitivity and equality in cultural engagement among the public, encouraging museum visits and participation in its corollary activities, while instilling pride in our heritage,” she added.

While the city and province of Iloilo have several museum and galleries, De Los Santos said many have yet to visit at least one.

She added they hope to “amplify the role of museums and galleries in the community and nation-building.”

“After the event, we hope the participants would not only visit museums and galleries, but they would be prouder of our natural and cultural heritage, including our textile traditions, and eventually help in its protection, preservation, and promotion,” she added.

The Museums and Galleries Month is celebrated every October by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 798, series of 1991 to increase national consciousness and pride in Filipino culture and heritage.

De Los Santos said the public is invited to visit public museums for free, including the NMP.

In addition to the Cosplay, NMP Western Visayas will bring the Pambansang Museo sa Barangay (PMB) to Santa Barbara Central Elementary School in Santa Barbara town, in Iloilo province on Oct. 24.

Those who are interested in joining the Cosplay are advised to pre-register at https://tinyurl.com/r3x3ba25, by emailing iloilo@nationalmuseum.gov.ph, or they can call at 327-3782 to reserve their seat.

The best ‘cosplayer’ will receive a prize worth PHP5,000; best in costume and best in character interpretation, PHP3,000 each; and best group ‘cosplayers’, PHP10,000. (PNA)