'Museum of Islamic Culture' to be built in Intramuros

MANILA, Dec. 9 — A "Museum of Islamic Culture" within the Walled City that would showcase the rich history and culture of the Filipino Muslims in the country will be built said independent Senator Richard J. Gordon.

Gordon, chairman of the Senate tourism committee and former tourism secretary, made the announcement as he led the reopening of Intramuros as the Philippines' History Town last Friday.

"This is our sincerest effort to raise public awareness and promote greater understanding of the important cultural and historical contributions of the Islamic faith to the people of the Philippines," he said.

"We are certain that most would agree that the building of this Museum will also accomplish much in the way of promoting a greater manifestation of peace and harmony between Muslims and Christians in the Philippines," he added.

The senator said he has asked the support of ambassadors from Islamic countries to help in raising funds needed for the building of the museum, to be called as the Museum of Islamic Culture.

Gordon has filed the "Ninth Ray" Bill which proposes that the rays of the sun on the Philippine flag be increased from eight to nine, to symbolize the community of Muslim leaders who defended our land.

He explained that Muslim heroes left an imprint on national history that must be given due recognition in Philippine flag.

In 2003, he also fought for the installation of the Lapu-Lapu Statue in Rizal Park. This, he explained, was motivated by the intent to honor and recognize the contributions of Muslims and Visayans in shaping Filipino history.

Gordon has often pointed out that while the 2000 census placed the number of Muslims at 3.9 million, the history of Islam in the Philippines ante-dates the arrival of the Spanish by more than 200 years and their contributions to Filipino culture are greatly significant.

"Our Muslim brothers in Mindanao and elsewhere have never been conquered. From Lapu-Lapu to Rajah Sulayman and the other Filipino Muslim heroes that fought to remain free, all have demonstrated our people's great courage and indomitable spirit. We should do all we can to remember that every Filipino borrows greatly from his proud Muslim heritage," he said.

The Senator pointed out that the building of the Museum of Islamic Culture in Intramuros would be historically appropriate.

"Our proposal to establish the Museum of Islamic Culture is an effort to bring Islam back to the core of Philippine consciousness and in so doing propagate better appreciation for the faith, which will hopefully lead to a more encompassing peace between Muslims and Christians in this country," said Gordon. (PNA)

Gordon mulls 'Museum of Islamic Culture' in Intramuros
December 9, 2008 11:44 am by pna
http://balita.ph/2008/12/09/gordon-mulls-museum-of-islamic-culture-in-intramuros/