A recently vacated century-old provincial jail and courthouse in the province of Sorsogon was converted into a museum which showcases the rich history and culture of the province and its people.

Named 'Museo Sorsogon', the provincial governor, Chiz Escudero, said he came up with the idea after seeing the potential of the 1900s architectural design of the building.

As soon as the construction of the new penitentiary was completed and the inmates were transferred in 2019, Escudero said he decided to install a new museum within the premises of the capitol compound in Sorsogon City.

"Museo Sorsogon will be a prominent structure in the province as the hub of the history and culture of Sorsogon. Curated by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), with help from the Sorsogon Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office, Museo Sorsogon will tell the story of Sorsogon and its people," Escudero said during the inauguration of the new museum on Friday.

Also present during the ceremony were NHCP Chairman Rene Escalante, National Museum Director Jeremy Barns, and other local government officials.

The provincial government immediately started the renovation of the historical building also in 2019 -- preserving the jail cells as galleries that would showcase Sorsogon's rich history and culture.

Inside the two-floor museum, ten galleries will display the significant historical and cultural aspects of the province, showing how communities started in Sorsogon, its participation in the Philippine revolution, and the ensuing American Occupation of the province.

Artifacts on loan from the National Museum, as well as from residents, will also be part of the display.

Unique to Museo Sorsogon's exhibits are the original artworks done by inmates of the provincial jail such as a painting of the Lady of Justice on the second floor, and Che Guevara, a prominent communist figure in the Cuban Revolution.

Aside from the art galleries, an 875-square meter open-air amphitheater was also built at the back of the museum for events and stage performances.

The museum will also have a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase locally-made products. It also houses a coffee shop and cafeteria.

The Provincial Government of Sorsogon has partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to allow micro, small, and medium enterprises to display their products at the museum to be featured as "Made in Sorsogon" goods.

The Museo Sorsogon will open its doors to the public on Monday, March 15 and will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The public was reminded to observe strict health protocols while inside the museum such as mandatory wearing of face masks and face shields, checking of body temperature and enforcing required one-meter physical distancing.

Visitors, particularly those visiting in groups, were also urged to book their tours at least two days before visiting the museum through a phone call at +639122366422 or online at [email protected] or through Museo Sorsogon's Facebook page.