The Tandang Sora Women's Museum: Here's What We Know So Far

(SPOT.ph) The revolutionary Melchora Aquino, more popularly known as Tandang Sora, is getting what is probably the ultimate tribute for her 213th birthday this January 6. (Although new research by Katipunan scholar Dr. Jim Richardson places her birth year at 1836.) The museum named after her goes on soft-opening this Monday. Called the Tandang Sora Women’s Museum, it is located within the Tandang Sora National Shrine grounds in Bgy. Tandang Sora, Quezon City.

The museum doesn’t only honor the contributions of Aquino, known to have provided food and medical care to Katipuneros during the Philippine revolution, even hosting their secret congregations in her residence. The museum also celebrates the contributions of Filipino women throughout history. Behind the initiative is Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, with support from the office of Senator Risa Hontiveros.

Also read: 10 Must-See Masterpieces at Ateneo Art Gallery

What the Tandang Sora Women's Museum looks like

According to response sent to Spot.ph by Architect Gerard Lico who designed the museum with his team at Arc Lico, the museum is housed in a structure done in the style of the traditional bahay na bato. “This architectural choice immerses visitors to the era of colonial rule when Tandang Sora played a pivotal role in shaping Philippine history. The building comprises two floors of thoughtfully curated spaces, including exhibit halls, educational areas, and newly commissioned artworks exclusively created for the museum.”

The museum’s contents were curated by visual artist Sandra Torrijos. “It commemorates the life and legacy of Tandang Sora, the revered Mother of the Philippine Revolution, while illuminating the often-overlooked contributions of women throughout Filipino history,” the Arc Lico message explains. “It provides access to materials that highlight women’s rights and freedom struggles. It stands to honor the countless women from diverse backgrounds who have dedicated their lives and talents to elevating the status of Filipino women.”

The virtues of Melchora Aquino

A visit to the museum promises to be an immersive experience. “Prominent cultural icons and influential women leaders are juxtaposed in cohesive narratives that elucidate their pivotal roles in shaping Filipino society,” says the response from Arc Lico. The public can look forward to exhibits that “encompass a diverse range of artifacts, from rare historical relics to contemporary works that exemplify the evolution of women’s rights, cultural contributions, and esteemed achievements. Additionally, the museum provides resources on women’s advocacy, offering a platform for introspection, education, and inspiration.”

The concept for the Tandang Sora Women’s Museum took a year to complete, and the structure, says Arc Lico, represents all of Aquino’s virtues as Mother of the Revolution: patriotism, resilience, and selflessness—virtues no doubt shared too by all the other Filipinas whose names and heroism have also found space in this museum’s august halls.

Also read: Ateneo's Rizal Library is Home to These 10 Cultural Gems