Tandang Sora: Inside the Philippines’ First Museum Dedicated to Women’s History

Throughout history, the stories of women—though central to the fabric of society—have often been overlooked or marginalised. Their courage, sacrifices, and leadership frequently remain absent from mainstream historical narratives, leaving a gap in how we understand our collective past. The newly opened Tandang Sora Women’s Museum aims to change that, shining a light on the vital contributions of Filipino women across the ages.

Honouring A Revolutionary Matriarch

Nestled beside the Tandang Sora National Shrine along Banlat Road in Quezon City, Philippines, the museum commemorates Melchora Aquino de Ramos, better known as Tandang Sora, the revered “Ina ng Katipunan at Himagsikan” — the Mother of the Philippine Revolution. Despite being in her eighties during the 1896 uprising against Spanish rule, Tandang Sora’s unwavering support for the Katipuneros marked her as a pivotal figure in the nation’s struggle for freedom.

Tandang Sora provided shelter, food, and care for wounded revolutionaries, extending not just material aid but also moral support and guidance. The museum’s dedicated section brings her story vividly to life, featuring her biography alongside personal artifacts that reveal glimpses of her daily life. Through this, visitors gain a deeper appreciation of her lasting legacy in shaping the nation.

A Groundbreaking Tribute To Women’s History

Officially inaugurated on 19 February 2025, following its soft opening on the 213th anniversary of Melchora Aquino’s birth, the Tandang Sora Women’s Museum stands as the first museum in the Philippines solely dedicated to women’s history. Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte highlights the museum’s mission: “This museum is more than just a collection of artifacts—it stands as a testament to the strength, struggles, and triumphs of Filipino women throughout history. Through its exhibits, we hope to inspire the next generation to continue advocating for equality, justice, and progress.”

The museum’s location holds deep historical resonance as Tandang Sora’s birthplace, connecting past and present in a meaningful way. Architecturally, it is housed in a two-storey bahay na bato-inspired building, paying homage to traditional Filipino architectural design while providing a modern space for reflection and learning.

Women Of Yesterday, Today, And Tomorrow

Beyond Tandang Sora, the museum offers a rich tapestry of stories covering Filipino women’s roles from pre-colonial times to contemporary movements. Exhibits showcase figures such as the babaylan — indigenous priestesses and spiritual leaders — revolutionary heroines, suffragettes, and advocates of modern women’s rights.

The Tandang Sora Women’s Museum offers more than just revolutionary memorabilia — it highlights the dynamic role of women in shaping Philippine society. The “Women in Action” gallery showcases materials from various feminist movements, reflecting the strength and activism of women’s organisations throughout history.

Another key exhibit, the “HERstorical Philippine Timeline,” traces women's contributions across different eras and fields — from faith and revolution to politics, science, the arts, and media. It honours early figures like the Babaylan, respected spiritual leaders in pre-colonial communities, and highlights the rise of women-led labour unions and peacebuilders.

The Bahay na Bato-Inspired Architecture

The Tandang Sora Women’s Museum is housed in a two-storey bahay na bato-inspired building, a design that reflects a cherished chapter of Filipino architectural history. The bahay na bato—literally “house of stone”—originated during the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines and is known for blending native Filipino craftsmanship with colonial influences.

Typically, a bahay na bato features a stone or brick lower floor, which provides sturdiness and protection against floods and intruders, while the upper floor is made of wood, offering ventilation and coolness in the tropical climate. Large windows with capiz shell panes and wide eaves characterise its elegant, practical design. This architectural style symbolises Filipino resilience and adaptation, honouring tradition while meeting functional needs.

By choosing this style for the museum, the designers pay homage to Filipino heritage and culture, creating a space that feels both familiar and respectful — a fitting home for a museum dedicated to the remarkable women who helped shape the nation’s history.

Visiting The Museum

The Tandang Sora Women’s Museum is open to the public Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 am to 4 pm, and admission is free — no advance tickets are required. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits celebrating the achievements of Filipino women throughout history, with a special focus on Melchora Aquino, also known as Tandang Sora, and her vital role in the Philippine Revolution.

For group tours of 20 or more, bookings can be made by emailing reservation@nationalmuseum.gov.ph. Smaller groups and individual visitors are welcome to walk in during regular hours.

Address: Banlat Rd, Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines

FAQs

What is the Tandang Sora Women’s Museum?
The Tandang Sora Women’s Museum is the first museum in the Philippines dedicated to women’s history. It honours the life of Melchora Aquino, also known as Tandang Sora, and showcases the contributions of Filipino women from pre-colonial times to the present.

Where is the museum located?
The museum is located beside the Tandang Sora National Shrine on Banlat Road, Quezon City—the birthplace of Melchora Aquino. It shares the grounds with the shrine in a heritage-inspired two-storey building.

What are the museum’s opening hours and admission policy?
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 am to 4 pm. Admission is free, and no advance booking is required for individual visitors or small groups.

What can visitors expect to see inside the museum?
Exhibits include Tandang Sora’s personal story and artifacts, the “Women in Action” gallery, and the “HERstorical Philippine Timeline”, which features women’s roles in revolution, leadership, faith, science, arts, and activism.