National Museum in the ‘dark’

While the country has not been really left behind in the global race for the 22nd century, it probably wanted to let the memories of the "dark" past remain.

The National Museum, home of cultural and historical relics, was recently plunged into darkness after the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) decided to cut its electricity, owing to its failure to settle its bills.

Power has been restored as of presstime, however, it could not be determined how the problem was resolved as administration officials of the museum’s majestic building along P. Burgos street in Ermita, Manila have gone on Christmas vacation.

The museum is headed by its director, Fr. Gabriel Casal. The STAR could not contact electrical engineer Ariel Cabil for any comment, however.

Based on reports, Meralco linemen came in the afternoon of Dec. 19 and cut off the power lines in P. Burgos side of the museum. The power outage forced the museum to close down temporarily.

Sources said the museum remained closed the whole day the following day since power was only restored on the night of Dec. 20. This was confirmed by a staff member who stayed on until Saturday last week.

The effect of the power outage to some of the relics, particularly those that should be maintained at a specified room temperature, could not yet be known as of presstime. – Jose Aravilla