If you’ve ever wanted to see the original manuscripts of Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo by Philippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, as well as other important historical artifacts, the National Library of the Philippines has opened an exhibit under its Rare and Special Collections to the public in honor of the library’s 135th anniversary.
Aside from Noli and El Fili, you can also view other important historical materials such as the De Molucis Insulis, the first book written on the Philippines after Magellan’s arrival; Philippine Insurgent Records; Acta de la Proclamacion de Independencia del Pueblo Filipino (Act of the Declaration of Philippine Independence); and the Philippine Incunabula, the first books produced by the native press when printing in the country was in its infancy.
Other important books, documents, letters, photographs, and maps that are important to the country’s history are also on display.
The National Library of the Philippines is open from Mondays to Fridays at 9am to 4pm, at 1000 Kalaw Ave., Ermita, Manila.
