ICYMI: HS Ignacian Marians visit Museo ni Mariano Ponce during local lakbay-aral

Photo by Jhemaica Ericel

Ignacian Marians from Junior and Senior High School immersed themselves in the vibrant and revolutionary biography of reformist Mariano Ponce during the local lakbay-aral to the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (N.H.C.P.) Mariano Ponce National Museum held Tuesday, Sept. 8.

Prior to the heritage walkthrough, students were briefly oriented to the proper etiquette, which strictly prohibited flash photography and video recording.

The two-story memorial museum showcased original artifacts, rare photographs, and interactive galleries that featured the diplomat’s life, such as his baptismal and death records, academic transcripts, and domestic relics.

During the tour, docents guided the students through the different quadrants of the museum, sharing deeper insights into the wall inscriptions and art exhibits displayed.

The curated spaces were organized chronologically according to the major milestones in Ponce’s life, starting from his childhood roots in Baliwag, educational background, literary crusade in Spain, to his diplomatic assignments in Japan and the end of his life as a Philippine legislator.

Students’ reflection and account

Angela Hope Bautista from Grade 9 – Our Lady of Charity articulated her enjoyment during the visit, noting that it gave her “memorable memories”.

“It was really fun! I made tons of memorable memories that I will forever cherish. Not only did I make memories, but I also learned a lot about Mariano Ponce and made me realize the hardships he went through for the Philippines,” she stated.

The 9th-grader also shared her realization concerning Ponce’s lack of widespread fame despite being one of the country’s patriots.

“Even though Mariano Ponce is a national hero, he is not very known because he put the Philippines first before himself. He made less novels about himself and more for the rights and justice of the Philippines,” she added.

Meanwhile, Mary Jillian Fajardo from Grade 10 – Our Lady of Holy Rosary described the visit as “amazing and entertaining”.

“It cured my curiosity about Mariano Ponce… After visiting the museum, I learned more about Mariano Ponce and his contributions to the country,” she said.

Adviser’s remarks

Mabel Moico, adviser of Grade 8 – Our Lady of Candles, equally shared her pleasure during the field trip, citing her profound camaraderie with her class in a real-world environment.

“It was a fun and memorable experience, especially since it was my first time getting along with my students outside the classroom. It was also nice to see them in a different setting and spend time with them beyond our usual classroom activities.”

She further said that the activity is significant in terms of cultural awareness and appreciation of the students.

“It also reminds them that before exploring and learning about other places, it is important to first know and appreciate our own city, its culture, and what makes it special.”

Fostering Appreciation for Local Heritage 

In an interview, Student Activity Coordinator (StAC) Ma. Gloria Bulan emphasized the primary objective of the local lakbay-aral – to broaden students’ understanding and recognition of their community’s past, traditions, and cultural identity. 

“The main purpose of the Local Lakbay-Aral is to provide students with meaningful, educational, and experiential learning opportunities by allowing them to explore significant cultural, historical, and religious sites within the local community.”

When queried regarding the site choices, the StAC explained that she, along with External Relations Head Renan Geslani, deemed that the Museo ni Mariano Ponce (for HS; Sept. 7) and St. Augustine Parish Museum (for Kinder to GS; Sept. 6) were ‘significant local attractions’ in Baliwag City.

“Museo ni Mariano Ponce allows students to appreciate the life, contributions, and legacy of Mariano Ponce and his role in Philippine history, while St. Augustine Parish Museum provides an opportunity for students to understand the historical and religious heritage of the local community.”

Ms. Bulan added that she considers the event a ‘success’ despite the pending evaluation results utilized for the ‘final assessment’.

“Based on our initial observations, the students from Kinder to Grade 12 actively participated and appeared happy and engaged throughout the activity.”

She then expressed her gratitude to the two heritage sites for accommodating our learners and helping us provide them with an authentic and meaningful learning experience.’

“Their support, together with the active participation of our students and teachers, contributed to the success of the activity.” 

Following the conclusion of the Local Lakbay-Aral, the institution is now anticipating the annual field trip on Sept. 24, where Kinder to GS students are headed to visit Padre Pio, Mabini Shrine, and J Castles around Batangas.

Meanwhile, high school students are bound for Gardenia Factory, Rizal Shrine, and Enchanted Kingdom around Laguna on the same day.