Mark James B.

Castillo

BETMT-AET-3A-M

“A Journey Through Time and Belief: Reflections on the National Museum of Anthropology”

Exploring the National Museum of Anthropology with my

classmates , in Taft, Manila was an experience delving into the
cultural heritage of the Philippines. I even got lost there because
the museum was huge and spacious , I couldn't help but be in awe
of every part of it. The focus was on traditions, rituals and beliefs
surrounding life passages. The museum did not only exhibit
artifacts but also narrated the stories and customs that have
influenced the local communities.

One captivating aspect of the museum's displays was its depiction

of practices related to life stages like birth, adulthood rites,
marriage and death. The showcased items – from clothing to jewelry,crafts and tools – each had a tale to
tell.

The museum highlighted Anito beliefs to Northern Luzon's societies. Anito spirits played a role in their
lives shaping their behaviors and choices. The collection of Anito related objects, on display offered a
glimpse into the realm revered by these cultures. which are essential to the indigenous cultures of
Northern Luzon. These societies' everyday decisions and behaviors were heavily influenced by the idea
of Anito, or ancestor spirits. The sculptures and ceremonial items in the museum's collection of
Anito-related antiquities offered a window into these societies' spiritual realms.

Every stage of life was

marked by elaborate
ceremonies and rituals
that reflected the
community’s beliefs and
values. I was particularly
moved by the intricate burial practices and funerary rites that were meant to guide the deceased into the
afterlife. The attention to detail and reverence for the departed was evident in the artifacts on display,
such as burial jars, grave goods, and ceremonial masks.

The traditions and customs related to the afterlife were also prominently featured in the museum’s
collections. The elaborate funeral practices, including the use of death blankets and ritual feasts,
highlighted the community’s beliefs in the continuity of life beyond death. The intricate weaving
patterns and symbolic motifs on the death blankets spoke to the cultural significance of these objects in
guiding the deceased on their journey to the afterlife

I couldn't help but think about the importance of these cultural

components in modern society as I wandered through the museum.
Even though some of the customs and beliefs may appear archaic
and outmoded, many Filipinos nevertheless feel a strong connection
to them today. In a world growing more disjointed and divided by
the day, the value of spirituality, family, and community as
represented by these traditions endures.

Since I could see similarities between these traditions and the

customs and beliefs in my own family, I had a strong personal
connection to the content. My knowledge of my cultural background
has been enhanced by the museum visit, and it has motivated me to
learn more about the customs and tales that have influenced who I am.

All in all, my trip to the National Museum of Anthropology was a tour not only through Filipino history
but also into their soul. I will always be reminded of the value of conserving and honoring our cultural
legacy by the artifacts and exhibitions about the afterlife, ritual passage of life, and Anito beliefs and
practices in Northern Luzon.