CASTILLEJOS, Zambales (PIA) — The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) underscored former President Ramon Magsaysay’s enduring influence on public service and leadership values on the occasion of his 118th birth anniversary.
Government officials, civic groups, and community representatives joined the rites honoring the “Idol of the Masses” held at the NHCP Museo ni Ramon Magsaysay in Castillejos, Zambales on Sunday, August 31.
Museum Curator Noel Gaton said the museum serves as an educational space, especially for the youth, to learn from Magsaysay’s example.
“Ang ating museo ay bukas sa publiko pero isa sa ating mga target audience ay mga kabataan kasi ang Pangulo Magsaysay ay maraming qualities na pwedeng maka-inspire, tularan ng mga estudyante,” he pressed.
Gaton noted that Magsaysay’s leadership was built on honesty, compassion, and inclusivity—values shaped by his upbringing and carried into his public service.
He cited how Magsaysay opened Malacañang Palace to ordinary citizens as a symbol of a leadership that listened to and served the people.
The museum translates these values into programs such as field trips, lectures, and partnerships with schools and civic organizations.
It regularly hosts leadership workshops for student leaders, history quiz bees for college students, and public programs that highlight servant leadership and good citizenship.
One of the highlights of the 118th anniversary commemoration was a gift-giving activity for Aeta learners from Barangay San Pablo.
About 112 elementary and high school students received school supplies through the support of the Magsaysay family, Subic National High School, and local partners.
The NHCP continues to promote Philippine history through its museums, research, and heritage programs, with the Museo ni Ramon Magsaysay serving as both a memorial to the former president and a community hub for values formation. (CLJD/RGP, PIA Region 3-Zambales)
