A museum does more than display art. It preserves memory, protects culture, and keeps stories from being forgotten. For generations, the National Museum of Fine Arts has done exactly that, housing some of the country’s most important works within its stone walls and iconic facade. During the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 coronation night at the Mall of Asia Arena, that same spirit came to life through a towering hologram-like structure inspired by the museum’s architecture, setting the tone for a night centered on spectacle and artistry.

Behind the design was Ronald King of King Design Studio, who envisioned the set, titled Lunduyan, as a tribute to the National Museum of Fine Arts and its role in preserving Filipino art and culture. Drawing from the museum’s neoclassical columns, arches, and pediments, the stage transformed the pageant floor into a modern interpretation of the landmark, while visuals inspired by celebrated Filipino artists appeared throughout the program.

For King, Lunduyan was meant to connect the country’s artistic heritage with today’s creative scene, highlighting how Filipino artistry continues to evolve while remaining rooted in history and culture.

“Lunduyan is conceived in reverence to the Philippine National Museum of Fine Arts—a timeless cradle of culture, memory, and artistic excellence. As the home and repository of masterpieces by the country’s most celebrated Filipino artists, it stands as both guardian of our heritage and witness to our evolving identity,” King said in Facebook post.

He added, “Visuals inspired by some Filipino artists will be used during some part of the program. Within its halls, stories are preserved, voices are immortalized, and generations are inspired. From the brilliance of those who came before, new visions are born—fueling the passion of today’s thriving creatives, whose works continue to shape, redefine, and celebrate the soul of Philippine artistry.”

First built in the early 20th century as the Old Legislative Building, the National Museum of Fine Arts has long stood as one of Manila's most important cultural landmarks. Today, beyond its neoclassical halls and historic facade, it houses 29 galleries featuring works by Filipino masters, National Artists, and leading modern painters, sculptors, and printmakers. It remains a space where the country's artistic legacy is both preserved and shared with new generations.

Through Lunduyan by Ronald King, the Miss Universe Philippines 2026 coronation night became more than a celebration of beauty and competition. Inspired by the National Museum of Fine Arts, the stage highlighted how Filipino art and culture can move beyond gallery walls and take shape in new spaces, forms, and audiences.