OVP kicks off 90th anniversary pop-up exhibit in Davao City
By Ivy Tejano
Published Nov 17, 2025 05:42 pm
THE Office of the Vice President launched its 90th anniversary pop-up exhibit on Thursday, Nov. 17, in Davao City, featuring the lives, programs, and contributions of the country’s 14 vice presidents across nine decades of constitutional history. (Photo via Ivy Tejano)
DAVAO CITY – The Office of the Vice President launched its 90th anniversary pop-up exhibit on Thursday, Nov. 17, at SM City Davao.
The event featured the lives, programs, and contributions of the country’s 14 vice presidents across nine decades of constitutional history.
Speaking during the ribbon-cutting ceremony, OVP satellite manager Gene Rose Tecson said the exhibit, which runs until Nov. 27, pays tribute to vice presidents whose service was “measured by their impact.”
Tecson emphasized that the role of the Philippines’ second-highest official – often carried out behind the scenes – demands dedication, preparation, and a deep sense of purpose in serving the Filipino people.
With the theme “EXTRA + Ordinary: Vice Presidents of the Philippines,” Tecson said the exhibit aims to bring historical narratives closer to communities by showcasing the stories of the past leaders in public spaces such as malls.
Tecson said they served through wars, political transitions, economic downturns, and natural disasters, consistently upholding their constitutional mandate.
She said the exhibit also highlights the everyday decisions, sacrifices, and commitments that define effective public service, inspiring patriotism among young Filipinos and encouraging them to live lives anchored in service.
Tecson said they can view key programs initiated by past vice presidents up to the present, highlighting significant events they faced during their time in office and the ways they responded to the challenges of their respective eras.
“Let us open our doors to history, to inspiration, and to the legacy of service that binds us all,” Tecson said.
Tecson urged people to visit the exhibit and keep the stories of the country’s vice presidents alive for future generations.
National Commission for Culture and Arts Executive Director Oscar Casaysay expressed support for the OVP’s commemorative exhibit, which brings the country’s history to life.
Casaysay narrated that 90 years ago, on Nov. 15, 1935, the OVP was formally established with the inauguration of the Commonwealth. He said that then Vice President Sergio Osmeña took on a role foundational to the country’s democracy.
“This exhibit is a visual testament to that legacy. It moves beyond dates and names to show you the evolution of the vice presidency,
a story of service, succession, and unwavering commitment to the Filipino people,” Casaysay said.
Casaysay urged people to look closely at the artifacts, documents, and photographs at the exhibit and learn about the dedication to grassroots service in the images of vice presidents working on the ground, often spearheading critical projects.
“Vice presidents often spearheaded critical projects in education, health, and social welfare, the silent, decisive mandate of the OVP. Here, you will trace the office’s journey across different times and locations,” he said.
Casaysay said the exhibit reminds the public that the OVP is not just an auxiliary post but a “pillar of democracy.” He added that it helps ensure government continuity and stability during the country’s most difficult times.
“This 90th anniversary is our opportunity to not only reflect on what has been accomplished but to resolve how we can strengthen this institution for the century. May this exhibit inspire us all, especially the young generation,” Casaysay said.
Acting Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte II, representing acting Mayor Sebastian Duterte, thanked the OVP for choosing Davao City as one of its key exhibit venues.
“We thank the OVP for bringing this historic exhibit here. It reminds us of the institution’s long role in governance and public service. On behalf of Mayor Duterte, we are grateful that the city is part of this national milestone,” Vice Mayor Duterte said.
The exhibit will travel to seven areas nationwide – from Cauayan to Zamboanga, including Bacolod and Davao – to enable students and communities in the Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to easily learn about the country’s vice presidential history.
OVP thanked its partners, who made the exhibit possible, including design collaborator Blue Iguana, as well as the malls and universities. The event is part of its yearlong anniversary, anchored on the theme “Duty, Continuity, and Legacy.”
Also in attendance during the opening were Vice President Duterte’s chief of staff, Zuleika Lopez; diplomats from China, Malaysia, and Japan; and representatives from local government units, national agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector.