Cebu, a city rich in culture and history, bears a lot of the Philippines’ vibrant heritage. With its centuries-old landmarks, culinary traditions, and deeply rooted customs, the need to preserve and pass on this legacy to future generations has never been more important. 

Gabii sa Kabilin (GSK), Cebu’s iconic nighttime cultural event serves exactly this purpose. Now in its 18th year, GSK 2025 carried the theme “Batan-ong Bahandi” (Youth as Treasures), shining a spotlight on the vital role of the youth in preserving and nurturing our cultural heritage. 

Over 6,000 participants joined us this year in a celebration that blended the old and the new, bringing history to life through immersive experiences across museums and heritage sites open from dusk until midnight. This year’s Gabii sa Kabilin was not only a walk-through time but also a celebration of youthful creativity and innovation. Through interactive exhibits, live performances, and community competitions, young Cebuanos proved that tradition and modern expression can thrive together. 

Event Highlights: 

• GSK 2025 Opening Ceremony: A dynamic kickoff that paid homage to Cebu’s cultural heartbeat. The opening program featured performances from the students of ManSci Dance Company (Mandaue City Science National High School) followed by a ceremonial torch lighting led by the youth and GSK’s implementing partners, officially marking the start of the night’s festivities. 

In her opening remarks, RAFI President and CEO Amaya Aboitiz expressed the foundation’s deep commitment to both youth empowerment and the preservation of Cebuano culture and heritage:  

“We look to the youth to bring their energy and passion into the promotion and conservation of our cultural heritage. Throughout history, young people have played a significant role in leading positive change, and this is what we are counting on today – that, with an understanding of our culture, our youth curate their own cultural experiences and breathe new life into our rich heritage. […] At RAFI, our commitment to culture and heritage is rooted in the belief that identity empowers. Gabii sa Kabilin is one way we uphold this mission—by preserving stories, sharing traditions, and building bridges between the past and the present and with each other through collaboration with both public and private sectors,” Amaya expressed. 

Mural Painting Contest: Young artists from the communities of Parian, Tinago, and San Roque transformed public walls into vibrant, visual stories that celebrated heritage, identity, and community spirit. These murals are powerful of creative stories and are now on permanent display at the following locations: 

• Corner Isagani St. & Sikatuna St., Brgy. Parian 

• Corner Eduardo Aboitiz St. & M.J. Cuenco Ave., Brgy. Tinago 

• Parian Public Stage (in front of San Juan Bautista Chapel–Parian Fire Station), between Sikatuna St. & Manibi St., Brgy. Parian 

Winning barangays were awarded on June 23, 2025, at the RAFI Kabilin Center: 

• Champion – Team Tinago 

• 1^st runner up – Parian B 

• 2^nd runner up – Parian A 

• 3^rd runner up – San Roque B 

• 4^th runner up – San Roque A 

Phone Snapshot Contest Winners: Through their lenses, amateur and student photographers captured the raw, authentic moments of Gabii sa Kabilin that reflect Cebu’s soul, energy, and vibrant culture. Congratulations to this year’s winners: 

• 1^st place: Maxwell John “Nganong bahandi ang mga batan-on?” 

• 2^nd place: Jumz Chino “Tagapagmana sa Kaalam” 

• 3rd place: Gift Pauleen Morada “Panulondon sa Kaalam” 

Minuto Reel Winners: One-minute videos told powerful stories about how today’s youth connect with heritage in meaningful and personal ways. These winning reels proved that even in 60 seconds, history and identity can come alive: 

• 1^st place: Mitchel Tabra “A Journey Through Time” 

• 2^nd place: Christine Ochea “Heritage Through the Eyes of the Youth” 

• 3rd place: Azalea Redoble “Young Hearts, Old Souls” 

Gabii sa Kabilin 2025 reminded us that culture is not just something to preserve but it is something to live, evolve, and pass on. This one night proved that our youth are active contributors and creators of the cultural legacy we all share as Cebuanos. 

Sites 

This year’s edition features 22 participating museums and heritage sites across the cities of Cebu, Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, and Talisay, showcasing a night of cultural discovery, performances, art, food, and community spirit. Joining us this year are the following sites: 

Cebu 

1. Archdiocesan Museum of Cebu​ 

2. Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño Museum​ 

3. BPI Museum ​ 

4. Cebu City Museum​ 

5. Casa Gorordo Museum​ 

6. Cebu Institute of Technology – University 

7. Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Temple​ 

8. Fort San Pedro​​ 

9. National Museum of the Philippines – Cebu​ 

10. Palm Grass The Cebu Heritage Hotel​ 

11. St. Theresa’s College of Cebu - Sr. Ma. Delia Coronel Folklife Museum​ 

12. Sugbu Chinese Heritage Museum​ 

13. The Heritage of Faith Museum​ 

14. The Kabilin Center​ 

15. University of San Carlos Museum ​ 

16. University of San Jose Recoletos – Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church​ 

17. University of the Philippines – Cebu​

18. University of Southern Philippines Foundation – Jose Rizal Museum​ 

19. Archdiocesan Shrine for the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus​  

Lapu- Lapu 

20. The Liberty Shrine/Lapu-Lapu City​ 

Mandaue 

21. Mandaue City Presidencia​ 

Talisay 

22. Museo de Talisay 

New to the roster is Cebu Institute of Technology – University, a vibrant addition that opens its doors for the first time to GSK participants. Also making a welcome return is Archdiocesan Shrine for the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, a beloved heritage site reconnecting with the community after a hiatus. 

Tickets 

Gabii sa Kabilin tickets are currently on sale at select museum partner sites with prices at Php 300 and Php 200. With your 300 pesos ticket, you’ll get: 

• One-time access to all 22 participating sites 

• Unlimited bus rides to transport you from one spot to the next 

• A fun tartanilla ride (one-way) 

• Participation in special activities both on-site and online 

For those on a budget or those who prefer a more leisurely night stroll through Cebu’s museums and heritage sites, we also offer a 200- pesos ticket with the following benefits: 

• One-time access to all participating sites 

• Participation in exciting special and online activitie

Theme 

GSK 2025 is more than just a one-night celebration. It is a call to action to explore, engage, and embrace our heritage beyond May 23. By spotlighting the youth as “batan-ong bahandi,” or young treasures, GSK 2025 champions the idea that the stories of the past are best carried forward by the energy, creativity, and passion of the new generation. From student-led performances to interactive exhibits and youth-centered activities, this year’s celebration recognizes young people not only as audiences—but as active stewards of culture. 

Activities 

Exciting nighttime activities await all participants—whether young or young at heart! Each site will feature dynamic programs inspired by the energy of the youth, with many activities led or designed by young people themselves. For barkadas and groups looking for a thrill, the annual Gabii sa Kabilin Heritage Hunt returns, promising another round of adventure, discovery, and fun under the stars.

A standout feature this year is the mural competition, taking place on selected walls within Cebu City’s heritage district. This competition gives budding artists the opportunity to showcase their creativity and transform public spaces into vibrant works of art. It’s a celebration of local talent, and the winners will be revealed during the GSK Opening Program. 

In addition to these exciting activities, our partner sites have been actively engaged in capacity-building efforts focused on sustainability through the Habilin program. These include seminars and talks on Curation, Risk Management, Social Media 101, and the Department of Tourism’s Filipino Brand of Service Excellence, all aimed at empowering local communities for lasting impact. 

On and on 

Gabii sa Kabilin owes its success to the invaluable support of its partner museums and the steadfast commitment of the four local government units of Cebu, Mandaue, Talisay, and Lapu-Lapu City. The event is also made possible through the contributions of various organizations and government agencies, including the Department of Tourism Region VII, Golden Prince Hotel, Islands Souvenirs, Cebu IT Park, Visayan Electric Company, and PhilChoco. 

Gabii sa Kabilin, initiated in 2007 by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI), continues to grow in scope and significance, drawing thousands of participants each year and reinforcing the message that heritage is not static—it is living, evolving, and deeply woven into everyday life. 

Let this year’s GSK inspire all Cebuanos—young and old—to rediscover their roots, celebrate shared stories, and build a stronger cultural future. Because heritage doesn’t live in the past—it lives in us. 

Here are 5 ways to make your Gabii sa Kabilin 2024 Memorable:

Gear up with your Gabii sa Kabilin starter pack

Gabii sa Kabilin 2024 is back in 4 cities in Cebu and surely, you will want to see all the exclusive special performances, activities, and offerings! Ensure comfort by wearing your most comfortable shoes and breathable clothing. Stay hydrated; carry a water bottle with you. Don’t forget your GSK ticket for entry. Pack any necessary medications or personal items that you might need from strolling the sites from 6 PM to 12 MN.

Plan your route

Whether you’re a first-time participant or a regular, Gabii sa Kabilin has suggested routes for everyone. The beauty of GSK? You can customize your route for a personalized adventure! Make sure to familiarize yourself with the bus stop locations to seamlessly hop from one museum to another. Check out the digital map here:

Explore food bazaars along the way, including Plaza Independencia, where PREMIUM ticket holders can enjoy a 10% discount on May 10 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., E. Aboitiz St.​​, and the Mabini Sidewalk​​.

Download the GSK Map

Collect memorable souvenirs

Who doesn’t love souvenirs? Grab the Gabii sa Kabilin memorabilia pins or the exclusive shirts from Island Souvenirs to commemorate the event. Check out the Casa Gorordo Museum Shop and the downtown Cebu branch of Island Souvenirs for the latest designs.

Capture the moment

Document your Gabii sa Kabilin experience through photography and videography and upload it to your socials under the hashtag: #GabiisaKabilin2024. Premium ticket holders can participate in special contests: the professional photo contest, the meme contest, and the Minuto Reel contest.

Find contest mechanics and prize announcements on Gabii sa Kabilin’s Facebook page.

Immerse yourself in exclusive GSK activities and performances

Did we say EXCLUSIVE? Yes we did! Experience exclusive performances prepared by partner museums, unique to Gabii sa Kabilin: Beloved Bisaya! Premium ticket holders in groups of 5 can join the heritage hunt, adding another layer of adventure to the night. Participating sites include Casa Gorordo Museum, Jesuit House, USPF Jose Rizal Museum, Archdiocesan Museum of Cebu, Fort San Pedro, National Museum, BPI Museum, Sto. Nino Pilgrims, Plaza Sugbo (Magellan’s Cross), and The Kabilin Center. Families with children can enjoy Kid’s corners with special interactive activities at USJR, STC, Archdiocesan, and Casa Gorordo Museum.

• Road Closure at 1PM-1AM​
  • Whole stretch of Eduardo Aboitiz St. ​
• Road Closure at 5PM-1AM​
  • Whole stretch of Mabini St.​
  • A portion of P. Burgos St. (from corner of V. Gullas until MC Briones Sts.)​
  • A portion of Colon St (from the corner of D. Jakosalem until Mabini Sts. ​

These closures are essential to facilitate pedestrian movement and ensure the safety of participants during the event. Alternative routes and transportation options will be available to minimize inconvenience for residents and commuters.

Traffic personnel will be stationed in the area to assist smooth flow of traffic.

Follow Gabii sa Kabilin on Facebook for more information and updates about this event.

So, what’s new?

As frequent attendees of GSK are aware of, the event consistently introduces new themes to offer participants unique experiences each year. In 2024, the theme revolves around: ‘Beloved Bisaya’, drawing inspiration from the legacy of Jesuit missionary Fr. Francisco Ignacio Alcina.

Alcina, a historian and ethnographer of 17th-century Visayas, demonstrated profound affection for the region through his extensive documentation of Visayan flora, fauna, life, culture, and history. His writings reflect a deep love and pride for the Visayas and its people, whom he affectionately referred to as ‘my beloved Bisaya’.

This year, to give back to the Cebuanos patronage of the annual heritage night, GSK hosted a free ticket giveaway. Interested participants who reside, work, or study in the partner local government units of Cebu City, Mandaue City, Lapu-lapu City, and Talisay City had the opportunity to score free tickets from March 15 to 31, 2024. Free ticket holders may claim their tickets at the selected participating sites until April 27, 2024, during the operating hours.

For those unable to secure free tickets, Premium tickets are made available for only 300 pesos. Each Premium ticket offers priority access to all 22 participating sites, unlimited bus rides, one tartanilla ride, and entry into all GSK-led contests.

Premium ticket holders have the exclusive opportunity to engage in the four (4) contests: the Snapshot Photo Contest, Minuto Reel Contest, GSK Meme Contest, and the much-anticipated Heritage Hunt. Additionally, families with Premium tickets can delight their children by letting them join the Kids Corners in multiple sites, featuring interactive games and enjoyable activities. Details of these activities are found on the GSK Facebook Page.

Those interested in joining this year’s Gabii sa Kabilin can purchase their tickets at any of the following participating museum and heritage sites: 

1. CEBU CITY

1. • Archdiocesan Museum of Cebu
   • Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino Museum
   • BPI Museum
   • Casa Gorordo Museum
   • Cebu City Museum
   • Cebu Normal University
   • Palm Grass The Cebu Heritage Hotel
   • Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Temple
   • Fort San Pedro
   • Museo Parian sa Sugbo – 1730 Jesuit House
   • National Museum of The Philippines – Cebu
   • St. Theresa’s College – Sr. Ma. Delia Coronel Folklife Museum
   • Sugbu Chinese Heritage Museum
   • The Kabilin Center
   • University of San Carlos Museum
   • University of San Jose – Recoletos
   • University of Southern Philippines Foundation- Jose Rizal Museum
   • University of The Philippines – Cebu

2. MANDAUE CITY
   • Mandaue City Presidencia
3. TALISAY CITY
   • Museo de Talisay
   • The Heritage of Faith Museum
4. LAPU-LAPU CITY
   • Liberty Shrine

GSK promises a fun and unforgettable experience for families, friends, and enthusiasts alike as it introduces, three (3) returning museums: the National Museum of the Philippines, BPI Museum, and Cebu Normal University. Alongside these additions, GSK goers can expect exclusive performances, various food bazaars, engaging games and prizes, and, most importantly, an immersive night filled with cultural experiences that will instill pride in every Bisaya!

Gabii sa Kabilin shares its success with the invaluable contributions of our partner museums and the unwavering support of the four local government units of Cebu, Mandaue, Talisay and Lapu-lapu City. Other groups, organizations and government offices supporting the event are the Department of Tourism Region VII, Ayala Central Bloc, Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu IT Park and Island Souvenir.

The following road closures and traffic rerouting will also take effect on May 10.

Initiated in 2007 by RAFI, Gabii sa Kabilin aims to celebrate Cebu’s rich heritage, cultivate a sense of identity and pride of place among Cebuanos, and help preserve local culture and heritage by encouraging Cebuanos to visit museums Last year, GSK attracted approximately 9,000 participants, highlighting its growing popularity and significance within the community.

For more information and updates, visit the official Gabii sa Kabilin page.

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Surging from the two-year hiatus brought by the global pandemic and the devastating onslaught of Typhoon Odette, Gabii sa Kabilin – the sought-after heritage night returns its first face to face event in October 2022.

Greatly influenced by the experiences and struggles of the Cebuano’s after facing two major calamities, Gabii sa Kabilin delves into the renewed spirit of resilience and hope with its theme “Padayon,” which translates to “moving forward” in Cebuano. Perfectly encapsulating the spirit of transcending challenges, Gabii sa Kabilin 2022 featured the Cebuanos’ knack for survival, resilience, optimism, and ingenuity.

As people eagerly awaited the return of in-person events, over 9,500, including avid Gabii sa Kabilin goers and newcomers, had the opportunity to relive the nostalgia of touring the various participating museums in Mandaue, Talisay, and Cebu City. From 6:00 PM to midnight, participants were able to access 20 museums, interactive performances, children’s activities, shuttle services across sites, and a complimentary tartanilla ride with just one ticket.

One of the highlights of the evening revolved around two notable sites: the brand-new National Museum in Cebu and the recently revitalized Freedom Park. The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) was featured in a special exhibit, offering a glimpse into its history, and providing a sneak peek of the museum’s upcoming galleries. Moreover, the exhibit showcased discoveries stemming from NMP’s archaeological excavations throughout Cebu province since 1985 and featured an interactive presentation of archaeological objects and artifacts designed for young learners. Meanwhile, the display at Freedom Park highlighted the conservation endeavors and archaeological findings within the area. Now standing in its original site, the park symbolizes a meaningful space for gatherings and its outright expression of freedom.

The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) also launched The Kabilin Center – a hub for modern and contemporary and art, extending its advocacy on preserving and cultivating Cebu’s local art, culture, and heritage. At its inaugural exhibition, named “Pagsagubang, the Pandemic Exhibit,” attendees had the opportunity to revisit the sequence of events and developments that occurred during the pandemic. The exhibition which was curated by Dr. Jose Eleazar Bersales and Prof. Jay Nathan Jore conveyed their hopes that, unlike past pandemics and epidemics, the COVID-19 pandemic should serve as a warning against complacency and the importance of remaining vigilant, given the potential for future viruses to disrupt global routines once more. Ultimately, “Pagsagubang” seeks to underscore that resilience and hope are qualities more infectious than any virus.

The Gabii sa Kabilin 2022 was more than just a cultural event; it was a testament to the enduring spirit of the Cebuanos. Despite the disruptions caused by the pandemic and the devastating typhoon, it showed the commitment and support of preserving heritage and moving forward.

As the night came to a close, the message of “Padayon” resonated with all who attended. The event had not only highlighted the rich culture and history of Cebu but also celebrated the resilience and determination of its people.

From shifting to online activities during the pandemic to the return of its face to face activities, no matter the obstacles, there will forever be a motivation to persist and advance, even when the journey appears challenging.

Apart from the traditional experience, Gabii sa Kabilin also provided a platform for showcasing local skills and talents. Notably, the event featured Filipino fashion designers and Cebuano musical acts such as Mandaue Nights and Wonggoys, who added a musical dimension to the atmosphere, alongside dancers performing the Sinulog and more.

Bannering its programs focused on biodiversity conservation (RAFI One to Tree) and the preservation of culture and heritage (Gabii sa Kabilin), RAFI is pleased to announce its recognition as one of the organizations honored at the recent Galing Pook Citizenship Awards.

On October 27, 2023, RAFI stood alongside four other organizations, namely Espoir School of Life; Health Futures Foundation, Inc.;  Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative; and Negrense Volunteers for Change (NVC) Foundation, who were commended and awarded for their initiatives and programs in empowering communities in different facets including climate change adaptation, boosting local economic development, supporting vulnerable sectors, and enhancing transparency, accountability, and participation mechanisms of local governance.

This award highlights RAFI’s steadfast dedication to promoting sustainable development and empowering communities, primarily in Cebu. As Architects of Change, RAFI offers avenues and opportunities for engagement, collaborative efforts, alliances, project administration, and grants. At the core of RAFI’s mission is a close partnership with local communities, enabling them to shape and thrive in a dynamic and resilient community where their well-being is cared for.

“One to Tree”: Empowering Communities for Biodiversity Conservation

Targeted to increase forest cover and mitigate the effects of climate change, RAFI’s “One to Tree” program involves local communities in biodiversity conservation while fostering a sense of environmental stewardship among the residents. Highlighting the ecological importance of growing native trees and supporting them through providing another source of income, the farmers and their families become the guardians of their own natural heritage.

The impact goes beyond environmental benefits, as “One to Tree” transforms individuals into community leaders who are passionate about preserving their local ecosystems. Through the program’s community-based approach, the program demonstrates that when communities are engaged and empowered, they become proactive protectors of their environment.

“Gabii sa Kabilin”: Community-Building through Cultural Heritage

RAFI’s “Gabii sa Kabilin” initiative exemplifies the power of community engagement in preserving local culture and heritage. Addressing the lack of awareness and appreciation for local culture and heritage, this annual heritage night not only showcases the rich history of Cebu but also brings together people from different sectors who have similar aspirations for culture and heritage, thus, fostering a deep sense of community pride. By actively participating in cultural activities and visiting historic sites, community members, especially the youth become ardent champions of their cultural heritage.

The program not only preserves the past but also creates a platform for modern and new forms of art to flourish. “Gabii sa Kabilin” has demonstrated that community engagement is a catalyst for building vibrant, culturally rich communities that stand the test of time.

“RAFI is honored to be awarded together with these outstanding organizations who are also working to improve the well-being of individuals and communities in our country. We thank Galing Pook for highlighting the role that NGOs play in finding innovative solutions to the problems we face and for providing the platform for us to learn from one another.

We are grateful to our different partners who have worked with us to co-create and co-implement programs – it is through these collaborations that RAFI is able to make meaningful and sustainable progress towards our vision of resilient, prosperous, and vibrant communities,” Amaya A. Fansler, President and CEO of RAFI expresses.

Driven by the belief that community engagement is the cornerstone of lasting change, RAFI continues to work towards realizing its vision of Touching People, Shaping the Future.

The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. Culture and Heritage Unit, local museums, cultural organizations, and local government are proud to bring back Gabii sa Kabilin (GSK), Cebu’s most awaited heritage event on May 12, 2023.

From 6 p.m. to 12 midnight, guests can access all 22 participating museum heritage sites located in the cities of Cebu, Lapu-lapu, and Talisay, and enjoy fun and interactive performances, and children’s activities.

Guests are treated to new experiences this year as Gabii sa Kabilin brings food bazaars, allowing hungry GSK goers to experience culture and heritage through local delicacies and food.

Guests can likewise look forward to enjoying the event earlier as select museums and heritage sites are set to open earlier in the day.

Tickets to the Gabii sa Kabilin are priced at Php. 300 inclusive of free shuttle service across sites and a complimentary tartanilla ride and Php. 200 exclusive of shuttle service and tartanilla ride. Senior citizens, PWDs and students can avail of a Php. 20 discount upon presentation of a valid ID at any ticketing site. Children ages seven and under, accompanied by adults, get free admission and rides. Tickets are on sale at any of the GSK partner sites starting March 24, 2023 until tickets last. GSK tickets are only valid during the heritage night.

Those interested in joining this year’s Gabii sa Kabilin, can purchase their tickets at any of the following participating museum and heritage sites:

CEBU CITY

1. Archdiocesan Museum of Cebu 
2. Archdiocesan Shrine of San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish 
3. Archdiocesan Shrine of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus 
4. Basilica Minore del Santo Niño Museum 
5. Casa Gorordo Museum 
6. Cebu City Museum 
7. Fort San Pedro 
8. Museo Sugbo
9. Museo Parian sa Sugbo - 1730 Jesuit House 
10. Palm Grass Cebu The Heritage Hotel 
11. RAFI – The Kabilin Center 
12. Theresa’s College- Sr. Ma Delia Coronel Folklife Museum 
13.  Sugbu Chinese Heritage Museum 
14. University of the Philippines Cebu 
15. University of San Carlos Museum 
16. University of Southern Philippines Foundation – Rizaliana Museum 
17. Fo Guang Shan Chu-Un Temple
18. University of San Jose – Recoletos  
19. Megawide-Freedom Park

LAPU-LAPU CITY

20. Lapu-Lapu City

TALISAY CITY

21. Museo De Talisay
22. Cebu Archdiocesan Shrine of Jesus Nazareno Heritage of Faith Museum

GSK ticketholders can also join the Heritage Hunt where teams will complete a series of challenges in select museums and sites. Vlogging, phone photography, and photo story contests are also open to all ticketholders—details of the contests will be found on the GSK Facebook page.

This year’s Gabii sa Kabilin theme Pagpanag-iya: Owning Our Story commemorates the 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence to showcase how our ancestors asserted their independence, their identity and sense of community, while bearing the weight of Spanish colonization. 

Initiated in 2007 by RAFI, Gabii sa Kabilin aims to celebrate Cebu’s rich heritage, cultivate a sense of identity and pride of place among Cebuanos, and help preserve local culture and heritage by encouraging Cebuanos to visit museums.

Gabii sa Kabilin also launched its monthly online activities during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic to continue educating Cebuanos about various topics related to local culture and heritage and make cultural education more accessible to the public. Last year, on October 21, 2022, Gabii sa Kabilin officially returned as a face-to-face event with over 9,000 participating guests.

For more information and updates, visit the official Gabii sa Kabilin Facebook.

Although the National Museum in Cebu will not be operational on the day of the event, it will be mounting a special exhibit on the history of the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) along with a sneak peek of the museum’s future galleries.

The museum’s exhibit will also include findings from NMP’s archaeological excavations all over Cebu province since 1985, and an interactive display of archaeological objects and artifacts for children.

In 2019, after being housed in Museo Sugbo, the NMP found its new home in Cebu with the conversion of the Malacañang sa Sugbo (former Port of Cebu Customs House) as the new National Museum, thus strengthening and completing the agency’s presence in Central Visayas.

The NMP signed a usufruct agreement with Cebu Port Authority on December 13, 2019, with approved funding from the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) of the Department of Tourism. The rehabilitation of the century-old building commenced in 2021 and is set to be turned over to the NMP before the year ends.

Gabii sa Kabilin participants can also learn more about Freedom Park’s historical and cultural significance through an exhibit at the Senior Citizen’s Park beside Sugbu Chinese Heritage Museum.

The special exhibit, mounted by Megawide subsidiary Cebu2World Development, Inc., will also feature conservation efforts and archaeological findings in the area. Freedom Park will be rebuilt on its original location as part of the historical commemoration of the Carbon District. Once a space for gatherings and freedom of expression, the park eventually became part of the public market.

This year’s Gabii sa Kabilin will feature 20 participating museums and heritage sites in the cities of Cebu, Mandaue and Talisay. For just one 200-peso ticket, participants will have access to the participating sites and their activities, unlimited bus rides and a complimentary tartanilla ride.

Initiated in 2007 by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc., Gabii sa Kabilin aims to celebrate Cebu’s rich heritage, cultivate a sense of identity and pride of place among Cebuanos, and help preserve local culture and heritage by encouraging Cebuanos to visit museums.

For more information and updates on Gabii sa Kabilin and the complete list of participating museums and heritage sites, visit www.facebook.com/gabiisakabilincebu.

Aside from access to 20 museums and heritage sites in the cities of Cebu, Mandaue and Talisay, guests can enjoy fun and interactive performances, children’s activities, shuttle services across sites, and a complimentary tartanilla ride with just one ticket.

Priced at P200 each, the GSK ticket is only valid during the heritage night, but regular paying guests can avail of the early bird rate of P180 until September 21. Senior citizens and students can purchase tickets for P180 each, upon presentation of a valid ID at any ticketing site. Children ages seven and under, accompanied by adults, get free admission and rides.

Those interested in joining the heritage night can purchase tickets at the following participating museums and heritage sites:

Cebu City

• Archdiocesan Museum of Cebu
• Archdiocesan Shrine of San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish
• Archdiocesan Shrine of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
• Basilica Minore del Santo Niño Museum
• Casa Gorordo Museum
• Cebu City Museum
• Fort San Pedro
• Fo Guang Shan Chu Un Temple
• Museo Parian sa Sugbo – 1730 Jesuit House
• Museo Sugbo
• Palm Grass Cebu The Heritage Hotel
• RAFI – The Kabilin Center
• St. Theresa’s College – Sr. Ma Delia Coronel Folklife Museum
• Sugbu Chinese Heritage Museum
• University of the Philippines Cebu
• University of San Carlos Museum
• University of Southern Philippines Foundation Rizaliana Museum

Mandaue City

• Mandaue City Presidencia

Talisay City

• Cebu Archdiocesan Shrine of Jesus Nazareno Heritage of Faith Museum
• Museo de Talisay

Participants can also join the Heritage Hunt where teams will complete a series of challenges in selected museums and sites. Vlogging and phone photography contests are also open to all ticketholders.

This year’s event theme is “Padayon”, which highlights why the Cebuano race, spirit and personality have continued to exist and thrive amidst the many crises and challenges that came his way.

The theme also highlights and celebrates local museums, galleries and cultural sites– treasure troves where one can find proof of Cebuanos’ knack for survival and character of resilience, optimism, and ingenuity.

Initiated in 2007 by RAFI, Gabii sa Kabilin aims to celebrate Cebu’s rich heritage, cultivate a sense of identity and pride of place among Cebuanos, and help preserve local culture and heritage by encouraging Cebuanos to visit museums.

Gabii sa Kabilin also launched its monthly online activities during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic to continue educating Cebuanos about various topics related to local culture and heritage and make cultural education more accessible to the public. Last year, it organized the Gabii sa Kabilin One Night Only, a virtual show that featured cultural performances and historical documentaries from the 16 museums and heritage sites.

For more information and updates, visit the official Gabii sa Kabilin Facebook page.

In this webinar, Dr. Mojares will also discuss how Cebuanos confronted the various political events and challenges. This webinar is free of charge and will be streamed on Gabii sa Kabilin’s Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Those who wish to participate may register

An ecertificate will be given to those who will answer the evaluation form after the online event.

Register Now

Dr. Mojares is a multi-awarded author, scholar, and a notable cultural and literary historian. He served as the founding director of the Cebuano Studies Center from 1975 to 1996. He was conferred the Order of National Artist in 2018, the first Cebuano to have received the highest award given to artists in the country.

He has written numerous books and scholarly articles on history, literature and politics, including The Man Who Would Be President: Serging Osmeña and Philippine Politics (1986) and Vicente Sotto, The Maverick Senator (1992).

The webinar is part of GSK’s activities this year which centers on the theme, “Padayon: The Persistence of the Cebuano Amidst Crises”. The theme highlights why the Cebuano race, spirit and personality have continued to exist and thrive amidst the many challenges that came his way.

The face-to-face Gabii sa Kabilin will also be returning on October 21, 2022, from 6 P.M. to 12 midnight. More details about the heritage night will be announced in the coming weeks, including the participating museums and heritage sites, and how to buy tickets.

The COVID-19 pandemic is one of the biggest global health crises that has emerged in over a century, but disease outbreaks are nothing new in the eyes of history– humanity has battled many different health emergencies before.

On May 27, 3PM, Gabii sa Kabilin will hold a webinar, entitled, “The Cebuano Amidst Health Crises in History”, with historian, Dr. Francis A. Gealogo, to discuss the important health crises, such as epidemics and the latest pandemic, that Cebu experienced and their effects on the Cebuano community.

Dr. Francis A. Gealogo is a professor and former chairman of the Department of History of the Ateneo de Manila University. He is also a former Commissioner of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.

He currently holds the Horacio de la Costa Professorial Chair in History at the Ateneo de Manila. His article, “The Philippines in the World of the Influenza Pandemic of 1918-19”, was awarded as one of the Most Outstanding Scientific Papers of the National Academy of Science and Technology.

The webinar is free of charge and will be streamed on Gabii sa Kabilin’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. Those who wish to participate may register below. An e-certificate will be given to those who will answer the evaluation form after the online event.

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The webinar is part of GSK’s activities this year which centers on the theme, “Padayon: The Persistence of the Cebuano Amidst Crises”. The theme highlights why the Cebuano race, spirit and personality have continued to exist and thrive amidst the many challenges that came his way.

The face-to-face Gabii sa Kabilin will also be returning on October 21, 2022 from 6 P.M. to 12 midnight. More details about the heritage night will be announced in the coming weeks, including the participating museums and heritage sites, and how to buy tickets.

Initiated in 2007 by RAFI, Gabii sa Kabilin aims to help preserve local culture and heritage by encouraging Cebuanos to visit museums. It launched its online activities last year at the onset of the pandemic to help make Cebuano culture and heritage more accessible to the public.