National Museum of Natural History, Manila (must see)

The National Museum of Natural History in Manila is dedicated to showcasing the rich natural heritage of the country. Established under the auspices of the National Museum Act of 1998, it forms a part of a grand initiative to repurpose three significant civic buildings within Rizal Park into cultural repositories. The initiative saw the Finance Building being the first to transform the National Museum of Anthropology in 1998, followed by the Legislative Building's conversion into the National Museum of Fine Arts in 2000. The Tourism Building's metamorphosis into the National Museum of Natural History marked the culmination of this visionary project.

Preparations for the National Museum of Natural History building began in 2013, led by the National Museum of the Philippines. Five architects were invited to submit proposals for its retrofitting. Dominic Galicia Architects, with interior design by Tina Periquet, were chosen for the project. Their design meticulously preserved the building's historical facade while incorporating an innovative glass dome supported by a double helix structure. The museum opened its doors to the public on May 18, 2018.

The National Museum of Natural History features 12 permanent exhibition spaces showcasing the diverse biology and geology of the Philippines. These galleries display carefully arranged collections of plants, animals, and geological samples, illustrating the country's distinct natural heritage. At the heart of the museum stands a "Tree of Life" sculpture symbolizing the interconnectedness of the Philippines' various ecosystems, from its majestic mountains to its vibrant marine reefs.